Dihydromyricetin (DHM), also called ampelopsin, is a flavonoid compound extracted primarily from a vine known as Ampelopsis grossedentata originating from Asia. DHM has gained increased attention in the past years due to its wide-ranging health benefits and its great potential for use in dietary supplements, functional foods, and pharmaceuticals.
What is Dihydromyricetin?
DHM is a flavonoid with powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The structure provides it with a broad-spectrum capacity to combat oxidative stress and neutralize free radicals effectively. Traditionally, DHM has been used in traditional Chinese medicine to remedy hangovers and liver health.
Key Benefits of Dihydromyricetin
1. Liver Protection
One of the most well-documented benefits of DHM pertains to its hepatoprotective effects. It has been shown to mitigate liver damage from alcohol by enhancing alcohol and acetaldehyde metabolism, the toxic byproduct of alcohol breakdown. Studies show that DHM prevents fatty liver and may help repair liver cells, positioning it as a great ingredient for liver support supplements.
2. Anti-Hangover Effects
DHM has gained popularity as a hangover remedy because of its ability to increase alcohol metabolism. It works by hastening the breakdown of acetaldehyde, thereby reducing the headache and nausea often associated with alcohol consumption. As such, most hangover prevention products have DHM as an active ingredient.
3. Antioxidant Properties
As a powerful antioxidant, DHM protects the cells from oxidative stress, which has been linked to the processes of aging and to various chronic diseases. In various studies, DHM was found to scavenge free radicals and improve natural antioxidant defenses in the body for better overall health.
4. Neuroprotective Effects
Recent studies indicate that DHM may possess neuroprotective properties. It has shown promise in reducing the buildup of amyloid-beta proteins associated with neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s. Additionally, DHM’s calming effects on the nervous system may help alleviate anxiety and improve sleep quality.
5. Cardiovascular Health
DHM has been associated with a reduction in inflammation and an improvement in blood lipid profiles, hence is believed to improve cardiovascular health. It has been indicated in certain studies to reduce cholesterol levels and prevent atherosclerosis, hence can be considered important for heart health.
6. Anti-Cancer Potential
Although still largely at its tender stages of research, DHM has proven anti-cancerous effects on in vitro studies. The compound acts by preventing the growth of certain tumor cells through induced apoptosis (programmed cell death) and reduced proliferation of tumors.
Dihydromyricetin Applications
1. Nutritional Supplements
DHM finds broad application in dietary supplements for liver health, hangover prevention, and general wellness due to its natural origin and scientifically backed benefits. This makes it very attractive to consumers seeking plant-based solutions.
2. Functional Beverages
DHM is now used as an important active ingredient in functional beverages targeting liver care and post-alcohol consumption recovery because of its anti-hangover effect.
3. Pharmaceuticals
Researchers also continue to explore DHM for possible treatment against neurodegenerative diseases, disorders in the liver, and problems in the cardiovascular system; because of its bioactivity, it is considered a good candidate for drug formulation in the near future.
4. Skin Care
Being an antioxidant, DHM is now used in skincare to reduce oxidative stress and protect the skin.
Conclusion
Dihydromyricetin stands out in its nature. It helps with the liver, from protection to brain and heart support. All these versatile roles put DHM in valuable positions in various products. More is found out about the mechanism and benefit from continuous research; thus, DHM surely plays an important role in health-related industries.
For 25 years, Stanford Chemicals (SCC) has been providing high-quality Dihydromyricetin (DHM) and various other herbal extracts. Contact us to learn more or send an inquiry today!