Description
Hops (Humulus lupulus) are a climbing plant from the hemp family that occurs naturally in Europe and Asia. The plant winds its way up hedges, forest edges and riverbanks, forming green, papery hop cones — the characteristic female inflorescences that have been prized for centuries.
Historically, hops are best known for their role in beer brewing, where the aromatic hop cones provide both fragrance and a subtle bitter accent. Outside the brewery, hops were also used in various European regions for herbal teas and culinary recipes. The dried hop cone produces a mild, slightly bitter and aromatic infusion that is often used in relaxing evening tea blends.
In traditional herbal cultures of Central and Northern Europe, hops were valued for their calming nature and mild, bitter taste. This description refers exclusively to cultural and historical use.
