Hops Flowers Humulus lupulus
Hops flowers are usually used to impart bitterness in a blend but depending on the strain they can provide floral, fruity or citrus flavors as well. Hops contains flavonoids and essential oils believed to helps with sleep, restlessness, anxiety and tension. Alternative medicine practitioners also believe the compounds found in hops have anti inflammatory, anti anxiety, analgesic (pain relieving) and anti cancer properties. Hops is currently being researched to see if it can assist with insomnia, hot flashes, cardiovascular disease, cancer and depression.
I use Hops in both my green tea blends to provide a counterpoint to the sweet and inject an element of relaxation.
Teal Creek Teas 