Awesome Hops

Hops are changing the world. Hops in beer is a global business worth billions – and could prove to be one of the most important active ingredients of the future. The idea for this book arose following the first joint hop harvest by a Chinese doctor and a hop farmer. Evi Ströhm and Michael Forster guide readers passionately through the past and future of this extraordinary plant – in a personal yet well-informed manner. Studies worldwide are investigating their potential in medicine. Hops could become a game-changer: as an antibiotic, in tumour therapy, and with possible positive effects on longevity, metabolism, fertility and rejuvenation. In 2026, hop cultivation in Germany was recognised as an intangible cultural heritage. This tradition has its roots in the Hallertau, the world's largest hop-growing region – yet the significance of hops today extends far beyond that. Through the lens of Chinese herbal medicine, hops are being reimagined entirely – explained in an accessible way and made available to everyone.