Effects of a dry extract supplement of hops (Humulus lupulus L.) on levels of depression, anxiety and stress
The plant Humulus lupulus L. (hops) is used as an herbal medicine for anxiety and mood disorders. The objective of this study is to investigate the effects of a dry extract of hops on self-reported levels of depression, anxiety and stress in young adults.
Apparently healthy young adults completed the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale-21 (DASS-21), and those reporting at least mild depression, anxiety and stress were invited to complete the study intervention.
A randomized (1:1), placebo-controlled, double-blind, crossover design was followed, with two 4-week intervention periods (Melcaline hops or placebo; two 0.2 g capsules once daily) separated by a 2-week wash-out. Anthropometric measurements, DASS-21 assessments, and measurements of morning plasma cortisol levels were performed at the beginning and end of the 4-week treatment periods.
36 participants (females/males: 31/5; age: 24.7±0.5 years) completed the study intervention (dropout: 6/42). No significant changes in weight and body composition or circulating cortisol in the morning were noted with hops or placebo.
Significant reductions in DASS-21 anxiety, depression, and stress scores (9.2±7.3 vs. 5.1±5.9, 11.9±7.9 vs. 9.2±7.4, and 19.1±8.1 vs. 11.6±8.1; all p values <0.05) were documented with hops, significantly greater than those caused by placebo (all p values <0.05).
In conclusion, in otherwise healthy young adults with at least mild symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress, daily supplementation with a dry extract of hops can significantly improve all these symptoms over a period of 4 weeks.
These beneficial effects agree with the German European Commission-approved indication of hops for anxiety and/or mood disorders and restlessness.
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