The aim of the study is to discuss the main secondary metabolites of hops and their biological activity. Recent studies have shown that hop is a source of valuable biologically active compounds including polyphenols that have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory or estrogenic effects. Hop was known and used for generations to relieve various complaints, but also as a preservative or antibacterial agents. The highest health promoting activity is attributed to two polyphenols specific to hop, i.e. xanthohumol and 8-prenylnaringenin. It has been proven that these compounds are characterized by the highest antioxidant and cancer preventive potential. The numerous scientific studies cited in the article show a broad spectrum of activity not only of these hop compounds but also of bitter acids and hop oils. Previous studies, although conducted mainly in in vitro conditions, gave very promising results. This leads to the search for methods of obtaining these compounds both from the natural source and by chemical synthesis, as well as the wider use of their properties.