
BREWER'S CORNER :In a tradition as ancient and whidespread as brewing, ingredients and process of brewing has varied considerably. Asides from Hops, many plants have been used to add taste and preservative qualities.
The following list is from Stephen Facciola's book: Cornucopia, A Source Book of Edible Plants. This heavy book is an encyclopedia / catalog with a wealth of information. It has over 700 pages and 3000 named species with details, comments and information. Interestingly in one appendice Facciola lists a series of Hops substitutes, of which most gruit herbs are sadly absent (no mention of Sweet Gale nor Marsh Rosemary). It is nevertheless an inspiring start for any creative brewer!
Known substitutes or alternatives to Hops
- Acacia myrtifolia
- Achillea millefolium
- Artemisia abrotanum
- Artemisia absinthium
- Calluna vulgaris
- Daviesia latifolia
- Dodonae viscosa
- Fagara rhetsa
- Glechoma hederacea
- Gouania lupuloides
- G. polygama
- Humulus lupulus var. cordifolius
- Menyanthes trifoliata
- Origanum vulgare
- Picrasma quassioides
- Ptelea trifoliata
- Pteridium aquilinum
- Quassia amara
- Rhamnus prinoides
- Sarathamnus scoparius
- Teucrium scorodonia