Prenylated Flavonoids as Valuable Biologically Active Compounds from Hops

Abstract

Hop cones contain a number of important compounds, which are frequently used in the brewing industry. Recently, an increasing interest has been raised in using hops also for other purposes, particularly in the pharmaceutical industry. The group of prenylated fl avonoids belongs to compounds with pharmaceutical potential. They display anticancer, cardiovascular, antioxidant, antimicrobial, antiinflammatory and oestrogenic effects, which have a positive impact on human health. This study presents the current knowledge about the biological effects exploitable in the pharmaceutical industry.

Keywords

• hops
• biological activity
• xanthohumol
• 8-prenylnaringenin
• health effects