Menopause is a natural part of ageing that brings physical and emotional changes, often due to a drop in oestrogen levels. Surprisingly, research is emerging that hops—a plant commonly associated with brewing beer— might be the secret ingredient to navigating this often difficult time. Hops contain powerful compounds called prenylated flavonoids and bitter acids. While hops are known for their use in beer, these unique compounds are now showing promise for naturally easing menopausal symptoms.

Prenylated Flavonoids: Supporting Mood, Oestrogen Balance, and Bone Health

Prenylated flavonoids are a type of phytoestrogen, meaning they mimic oestrogen in the body. They have a special affinity for ERα receptors, providing beneficial effects similar to oestrogen but with a likely safer profile than synthetic hormones. Key components, such as Xanthohumol (XH), Desmethylxanthohumol (DMX), 8-Prenylnaringenin (8-PN), and 6-Prenylnaringenin (6-PN), work by supporting oestrogenic activity, which helps to:

1. Reduce Physical Symptoms

Prenylated flavonoids ease the discomfort of hot flashes and vaginal dryness and even help prevent bone density loss, reducing the risk of osteoporosis— a common concern for post-menopausal women​.

2. Enhance Mood

Xanthohumol, in particular, plays a crucial role by stimulating the release of oxytocin, often known as the “feel-good” or “love” hormone. This release helps women manage mood dysregulation and experience a general sense of well-being during menopause, making it easier to handle emotional shifts.

Bitter Acids: Promoting Calmness and Better Sleep

The effects of menopause often extend to the brain and central nervous system, impacting sleep and increasing feelings of anxiety. Bitter acids, particularly α- and β-acids, influence the central nervous system by enhancing the activity of GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), a neurotransmitter that promotes relaxation:

1. Improved Sleep

Bitter acids encourage the brain’s natural sedative response, helping menopausal women fall asleep more easily and improving overall sleep quality, which is often disrupted during this time.

2. Reduced Anxiety and Irritability

By acting on GABA receptors, bitter acids create a calming effect, which can be highly beneficial for women experiencing heightened anxiety or mood fluctuations during menopause​.

Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Benefits

Prenylated flavonoids and bitter acids from hops are also known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. They help reduce oxidative stress and inhibit inflammation by suppressing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. These actions contribute to long-term health by lowering the risks of chronic conditions, such as cardiovascular disease, neurodegenerative disorders, and arthritis, which may become more common with age​.

The Natural Choice for Managing Menopause

Prenylated flavonoids and bitter acids offer a gentle, plant-based approach to managing menopause symptoms. By supporting mood, improving sleep, balancing oestrogen, and protecting long-term health, these compounds provide a holistic solution that addresses multiple aspects of menopause naturally. That’s why we have included clinically studied Menoduo® Full-Spectrum hops extract in in our new & improved menopause complex, Menopower®

MenoPower® – Pre & Post Menopause Complex – Includes Clinically Proven Menoduo® Hops Extract, Magnesium, Red Clover, Saffron, Fenugreek, Lemon Balm, Folate & B12 – 4 Months’ Supply

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References

Aghamiri, Vida et al. “The effect of Hop (Humulus lupulus L.) on early menopausal symptoms and hot flashes: A randomized placebo-controlled trial.” Complementary therapies in clinical practice vol. 23 (2016)

Keiler, Annekathrin M et al. “Hop extracts and hop substances in treatment of menopausal complaints.” Planta medica vol. 79,7 (2013): 576-9. doi:10.1055/s-0032-1328330

Bolton, Judy L et al. “The Multiple Biological Targets of Hops and Bioactive Compounds.” Chemical research in toxicology vol. 32,2 (2019): 222-233. doi:10.1021/acs.chemrestox.8b00345

Dietz, Birgit M et al. “Botanicals and Their Bioactive Phytochemicals for Women’s Health.” Pharmacological reviews vol. 68,4 (2016): 1026-1073. doi:10.1124/pr.115.010843

Vazquez-Cervantes, Gustavo Ignacio et al. “Redox and Anti-Inflammatory Properties from Hop Components in Beer-Related to Neuroprotection.” Nutrients vol. 13,6 2000. 10 Jun. 2021, doi:10.3390/nu13062000