Compound Monograph
Lupulone
Lupulone is one of the beta-acids of hops, a prenylated bitter compound contributing to the preservative and bittering qualities of hops in beer.
Classification
Lupulone is an acylphloroglucinol (hop beta-acid), part of the phenolics class. Antioxidant compounds built around one or more phenol rings — the flavonoids, tannins, phenolic acids, coumarins, and pigments behind much of a plant's protective chemistry.
Where Does It Come From? (1)
Lupulone is a naturally occurring acylphloroglucinol (hop beta-acid), found in Hops. It is well tolerated orally (low toxicity).
Research & Evidence
Lupulone is the principal member of the hop beta-acids (lupulones), a group of prenylated acylphloroglucinol compounds found in the resin of hops (Humulus lupulus). Together with the alpha-acids (humulones), the beta-acids contribute to the bitterness and, importantly, the antimicrobial and preservative properties that hops bring to beer. Lupulone has been studied in the laboratory mainly for antibacterial activity; human data are limited.
Toxicity & Safety
Lupulone is consumed as part of normal hops and beer intake and is regarded as low in toxicity at those levels. Its isolated safety profile has not been characterised in detail.