Hop Essential Oil: Chemical Composition, Extraction, Analysis, and Applications
Ksenija Rutnik, Maša Knez Hrnčič, Iztok Jože Košir
Abstract
Hop cones (Humulus lupulus L.), or more specifically the lupulin glands, hold the reason for the specific, pleasant aroma of hops – its essential oil. The hops themselves, or the extracted oil, are used almost exclusively in beer production. The essential oil is an indispensable part of beer and is responsible for its characteristic aroma. However, hop essential oil (HEO) also has a broad range of positive effects on human health and is a potential natural pesticide that has no harmful impacts on humans. This review summarizes basic information about HEO, including its chemical composition and methods for extraction and analysis, while also providing a comprehensive overview of the contribution to beer aroma, health, and insecticide applications for this versatile essential oil.