In order to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the Herbal Medicinal Products Platform Austria (HMPPA), a scientific symposium is being organised in collaboration with the Society for Medicinal Plant and Natural Product Research (GA) on the subject of ‘Humulus lupulus: phytochemical, pharmacological and clinical evidence’. The selection of this plant by the HMPPA committee as the 2026 Medicinal Plant of the Year underscores its significance in the field of herbal medicine.
The symposium is dedicated to hops (Humulus lupulus), a versatile medicinal and agricultural plant, and highlights the latest scientific findings from research and medicine. The presentations cover the entire research process—from genetic breeding and sustainable production to modern extraction and analysis methods, and the identification of valuable compounds.
Another focus is on the pharmacological properties of hops. The program will feature presentations on the latest research findings regarding antimicrobial, antiviral, antitumor, anti-inflammatory, and hormone-like effects, as well as on the potential of hops in treating obesity, sleep disorders, and the development of new regenerative active ingredients. The program is complemented by insights into clinical trials and the regulatory challenges facing herbal medicines.
The symposium thus offers a comprehensive overview of the current state of hop research and promotes interdisciplinary exchange among experts from the fields of science, medicine, and pharmacy.
