Home Ingredients Hop Extract (Humulus lupulus) for Menopause
Menopause Support

Hop Extract (Humulus lupulus) for Menopause

Humulus lupulus L. — female cones
Evidence Level
Limited
2 Clinical Trials
6 Documented Benefits
2/5 Evidence Score

Hop extract from Humulus lupulus (the hop plant, source of beer bittering) is one of the more interesting botanical interventions for menopausal symptoms — uniquely containing 8-prenylnaringenin (8-PN), often described as one of the most potent naturally-occurring phytoestrogens identified. 8-PN binds estrogen receptors with higher affinity than soy isoflavones, daidzein, or genistein. Standardized hop extracts for menopause are typically prepared from the female hop cones (strobiles) where 8-PN concentrates. Clinical doses in the two published menopause RCTs were 100 to 250 mcg of 8-PN per day, with 100 mcg the more effective dose. Two small placebo-controlled RCTs (67 and 36 women) tested this extract over 12 to 16 weeks using the Kupperman Index, Menopause Rating Scale and visual analogue scales (not the Greene Climacteric Scale). Benefit was borderline: the 100 mcg dose beat placebo on the Kupperman Index at 6 weeks but not at 12 weeks in one trial, and the other trial showed no significant overall difference from placebo, which improved nearly as much. Honest framing: hop's phytoestrogen mechanism is genuinely more potent in vitro than other commonly-supplemented phytoestrogens, but human trial evidence is more modest — the dose at which 8-PN is delivered in supplements is small (mcg range vs the gram-range isoflavone doses used in soy trials). Estrogen-sensitive conditions are a contraindication.

Studied Dose 100 to 250 mcg 8-PN per day (100 mcg was the more effective dose in both symptom RCTs), delivered in roughly 100 to 200 mg of standardized hop extract.
Active Compound Humulus lupulus (hop) female cone extract; key bioactive 8-prenylnaringenin (8-PN). Also 6-prenylnaringenin, xanthohumol, humulones, lupulones.

Benefits

Hot flash reduction (small trials, borderline effect)

Two small placebo-controlled RCTs of a standardized hop extract (100 to 250 mcg 8-PN per day) reported reductions in Kupperman Index and hot flash scores, but the effect was borderline and did not hold at every timepoint. In the larger trial (67 women) the 100 mcg dose beat placebo at 6 weeks but not at 12 weeks; in the cross-over trial (36 women) the overall analysis showed no significant difference from placebo. Any benefit is modest and well below hormone replacement therapy.

Supported by Trial 1

Menopausal symptom scale changes (Kupperman, MRS)

The two RCTs used multi-domain menopausal scales, the modified Kupperman Index, the Menopause Rating Scale and visual analogue scales, not the Greene Climacteric Scale or MENQOL. Improvements over placebo were small and not consistent across timepoints, and in the cross-over trial the overall difference from placebo was not significant.

Supported by Trial 1

Potent natural phytoestrogen via 8-PN

8-prenylnaringenin binds estrogen receptors (particularly ERα) with affinity reported as orders of magnitude higher than soy isoflavones or red clover phytoestrogens. This higher per-mg potency means the trialled doses were in the mcg range rather than the gram range used for soy isoflavones, though the human trials of these mcg doses showed only borderline benefit.

Supported by Trial 2

Calming and sleep-supportive traditional use

Beyond menopause applications, hops have traditional use as a calming herb for sleep and anxiety — typically combined with valerian. Mechanism likely involves GABAergic activity from non-8-PN compounds. Relevant in menopause context where sleep disruption is common.

Supported by Trial 1, Trial 2

Lipid profile maintenance

The published menopause RCTs of this extract measured symptom scales and bone density, not blood lipids, so any lipid effect in humans is unproven. A lipid benefit is only a theoretical extension of the extract's estrogenic activity.

Supported by Trial 1

Bone density: one-year RCT, null vs placebo

One 48-week manufacturer-funded RCT in 100 postmenopausal women with osteopenia (all also taking calcium and vitamin D) added an 8-PN standardized hop extract or placebo. Total body bone mineral density rose versus baseline in the hop group, but the difference versus placebo did not reach significance (about 1.0 percent, p=0.08). On this primary between-group comparison the trial was null, so a human bone benefit is not established.

Supported by Trial 1

Mechanism of action

1

Estrogen receptor agonism

8-prenylnaringenin binds and activates estrogen receptors (ERα with particularly high affinity). The downstream effect mimics endogenous estradiol — explaining benefits on vasomotor stability, lipid profile, and other estrogen-responsive tissues. Mechanism distinct from FenuSmart-style endogenous estradiol elevation.

2

Vasomotor center stabilization

Estrogen receptor activation in the hypothalamic thermoregulatory center stabilizes the temperature setpoint that becomes labile in menopause — the mechanism underlying hot flash and night sweat reduction. Same downstream effect as HRT but via plant-derived ER agonist.

3

GABAergic activity (non-8-PN compounds)

Hop bittering compounds (humulones, lupulones) and the broader extract matrix appear to have GABAergic effects supporting the traditional use as calming and sleep-supportive. Mechanism distinct from 8-PN's estrogenic activity and contributes complementary benefits in menopause where sleep is often disrupted.

4

Xanthohumol bioconversion to 8-PN

Hop extracts contain xanthohumol — a chalcone that can be bioconverted to 8-PN by intestinal microbiota in some individuals. This bioconversion is variable across individuals based on microbiome composition, explaining some inter-individual response variability.

Clinical trials

1
Standardized Hop Extract Menopause RCTs (two small trials)
PubMed

Two small randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials of a standardized hop extract (100 to 250 mcg 8-PN per day) in menopausal women: 67 women over 12 weeks and 36 women in a 16-week cross-over.

postmenopausal women

Two small randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials of a standardized hop extract (100 to 250 mcg 8-PN per day) in menopausal women: 67 women over 12 weeks and 36 women in a 16-week cross-over. Outcomes were measured with the Kupperman Index, Menopause Rating Scale and visual analogue scales, not the Greene Climacteric Scale. Results were borderline: the 100 mcg dose beat placebo on the Kupperman Index at 6 weeks but not at 12 weeks in the larger trial, and the cross-over trial showed no significant overall difference from placebo, which improved nearly as much.

2
8-PN Estrogen Receptor Binding (preclinical: in vitro and animal)
PubMed

Multiple in vitro and animal studies have established 8-PN as among the most potent natural phytoestrogens for ER binding, reported with affinity orders of magnitude higher than soy isoflavones. This is preclinical evidence, not a human trial.

In vitro receptor assays and rodent estrogenicity models; not human subjects.

Multiple in vitro and animal studies have established 8-PN as among the most potent natural phytoestrogens for ER binding, reported with affinity orders of magnitude higher than soy isoflavones. This is preclinical evidence, not a human trial. Foundational evidence underlying hop's menopause indication.

Side effects and drug interactions

Common Potential side effects

Generally well-tolerated at supplemental doses; mild drowsiness possible (consistent with GABAergic activity).
Estrogenic activity is the entire mechanism — those with estrogen-sensitive conditions (breast cancer history, ER+ tumors, endometriosis, uterine fibroids) should avoid or consult oncologist/gynecologist.
Possible mild GI effects.
Theoretical concern about endometrial proliferation with very long-term high-dose use (as with any phytoestrogen) — periodic medical monitoring appropriate.
Pregnancy: avoid. Lactation: avoid.

Important Drug interactions

Hormone replacement therapy — additive estrogenic effect; consult prescriber.
Tamoxifen / aromatase inhibitors (breast cancer adjuvant therapy) — hop's estrogenic activity may oppose these therapies; avoid with breast cancer history.
Sedatives/benzodiazepines/alcohol — additive sedation via the GABAergic compounds; use caution.
Hormonal contraceptives — theoretical interaction; minimal clinical relevance at typical supplemental doses.
Pregnancy and lactation — avoid due to phytoestrogen activity.

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Frequently asked questions about Hop Extract (Humulus lupulus) for Menopause

What is Hop Extract (Humulus lupulus) for Menopause?

Hop extract from Humulus lupulus (the hop plant, source of beer bittering) is one of the more interesting botanical interventions for menopausal symptoms — uniquely containing 8-prenylnaringenin (8-PN), often described as one of the most potent naturally-occurring phytoestrogens identified.

What is Hop Extract (Humulus lupulus) for Menopause used for?

Hop Extract (Humulus lupulus) for Menopause is researched primarily for Menopause Support. Two small placebo-controlled RCTs of a standardized hop extract (100 to 250 mcg 8-PN per day) reported reductions in Kupperman Index and hot flash scores, but the effect was borderline and did not hold at every timepoint.

What is the recommended dosage of Hop Extract (Humulus lupulus) for Menopause?

The clinically studied dose is 100 to 250 mcg 8-PN per day (100 mcg was the more effective dose in both symptom RCTs), delivered in roughly 100 to 200 mg of standardized hop extract. Always follow the product label and check with a healthcare provider for personal advice.

Is Hop Extract (Humulus lupulus) for Menopause safe, and does it have side effects?

For most healthy adults, Hop Extract (Humulus lupulus) for Menopause is well tolerated at studied doses. Reported effects can include: Generally well-tolerated at supplemental doses; mild drowsiness possible (consistent with GABAergic activity). Estrogenic activity is the entire mechanism — those with estrogen-sensitive conditions (breast cancer history, ER+ tumors, endometriosis, uterine fibroids) should avoid… It may also interact with some medications. Hop Extract (Humulus lupulus) for Menopause is not right for everyone, so check with a healthcare provider first if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, have a medical condition, or take prescription medication.

Does Hop Extract (Humulus lupulus) for Menopause interact with any medications?

Possible interactions include: Hormone replacement therapy — additive estrogenic effect; consult prescriber. Tamoxifen / aromatase inhibitors (breast cancer adjuvant therapy) — hop's estrogenic activity may oppose these therapies; avoid with breast cancer history. If you take prescription medication, check with a pharmacist or doctor before using it.

How strong is the scientific evidence for Hop Extract (Humulus lupulus) for Menopause?

NutraSmarts rates the evidence for Hop Extract (Humulus lupulus) for Menopause as Limited (2 out of 5). It is backed by 2 clinical trials and 7 cited references summarized on this page. A higher rating reflects more, larger, and better-designed human studies.

References(7 citations)

Evidence ratings on NutraSmarts are based on the totality of human clinical research, with emphasis on randomized controlled trials, meta-analyses, and systematic reviews. The references below directly support claims made throughout this page.

  1. Štulíková K, Karabín M, Nešpor J, Dostálek P. Therapeutic Perspectives of 8-Prenylnaringenin, a Potent Phytoestrogen from Hops. Molecules. 2018;23(3):. doi: 10.3390/molecules23030660.PubMedUsed to support: Review of 8-prenylnaringenin, the potent hop phytoestrogen behind Lifenol's use, summarizing its estrogenic activity relevant to menopausal symptoms. Supports the mechanism behind the menopause use.
  2. Bolton JL, Dunlap TL, Hajirahimkhan A, Mbachu O, Chen SN, Chadwick L, Nikolic D, van Breemen RB, Pauli GF, Dietz BM. The Multiple Biological Targets of Hops and Bioactive Compounds. Chem Res Toxicol. 2019;32(2):222-233. doi: 10.1021/acs.chemrestox.8b00345.PubMedUsed to support: Review of the multiple biological targets of hops and their bioactive compounds, including the estrogenic 8-prenylnaringenin. Background for the women's-health and menopause uses.
  3. Bowe J, Li XF, Kinsey-Jones J, Heyerick A, Brain S, Milligan S, O'Byrne K. The hop phytoestrogen, 8-prenylnaringenin, reverses the ovariectomy-induced rise in skin temperature in an animal model of menopausal hot flushes. J Endocrinol. 2006;191(2):399-405. doi: 10.1677/joe.1.06919.PubMedUsed to support: Study showing the hop phytoestrogen 8-prenylnaringenin reversed the rise in skin temperature in an ovariectomy (hot-flash) model. Mechanistic support for hops easing menopausal hot flashes.
  4. Overk CR, Guo J, Chadwick LR, Lantvit DD, Minassi A, Appendino G, Chen SN, Lankin DC, Farnsworth NR, Pauli GF, van Breemen RB, Bolton JL. In vivo estrogenic comparisons of Trifolium pratense (red clover) Humulus lupulus (hops), and the pure compounds isoxanthohumol and 8-prenylnaringenin. Chem Biol Interact. 2008;176(1):30-9. doi: 10.1016/j.cbi.2008.06.005.PubMedUsed to support: In vivo comparison confirming hops (via 8-prenylnaringenin) has estrogenic activity alongside red clover. Supports the phytoestrogen basis for the menopause use.
  5. Heyerick A, Vervarcke S, Depypere H, Bracke M, De Keukeleire D. A first prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study on the use of a standardized hop extract to alleviate menopausal discomforts. Maturitas. 2006;54(2):164-75. doi: 10.1016/j.maturitas.2005.10.005.PubMedUsed to support: Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in 67 menopausal women given a hop extract standardized to 100 or 250 mcg 8-PN daily for 12 weeks. The 100 mcg dose was superior to placebo on the modified Kupperman Index at 6 weeks (p=0.023) but not at 12 weeks (p=0.086), and the higher 250 mcg dose was less effective than the lower one. A small, short trial with a borderline result.
  6. Erkkola R, Vervarcke S, Vansteelandt S, Rompotti P, De Keukeleire D, Heyerick A. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over pilot study on the use of a standardized hop extract to alleviate menopausal discomforts. Phytomedicine. 2010;17(6):389-96. doi: 10.1016/j.phymed.2010.01.007.PubMedUsed to support: Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled cross-over pilot trial in 36 menopausal women given a hop extract standardized to 100 mcg 8-PN daily over 16 weeks. The overall estimate of treatment efficacy was not statistically significant, with placebo improving nearly as much as active treatment; only some time-specific estimates at 16 weeks reached significance for the Kupperman Index (p=0.02) and a visual analogue scale (p=0.03). A small pilot with a largely null primary result.
  7. Lecomte M, Tomassi D, Rizzoli R, Tenon M, Berton T, Harney S, Fança-Berthon P. Effect of a Hop Extract Standardized in 8-Prenylnaringenin on Bone Health and Gut Microbiome in Postmenopausal Women with Osteopenia: A One-Year Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial. Nutrients. 2023;15(12):2688. doi: 10.3390/nu15122688.PubMedUsed to support: Manufacturer-funded (Givaudan) 48-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in 100 postmenopausal women with osteopenia, all taking calcium and vitamin D, given an 8-PN standardized hop extract or placebo. Total body bone mineral density rose versus baseline in the hop group, but the difference versus placebo did not reach statistical significance (about 1.0 percent, p=0.08). The primary between-group bone outcome was null.