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DHM

Also known as: Dihydromyricetin, DHM, Ampelopsin, Hovenia dulcis extract

Overview

Dihydromyricetin (DHM) is a flavonoid primarily extracted from the Japanese raisin tree (Hovenia dulcis). It is recognized for its antioxidant and hepatoprotective properties. DHM is being explored for liver protection, hangover relief, and as a potential adjunct in managing metabolic disorders like non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and insulin resistance. As a water-soluble, bioactive flavonoid, DHM exhibits antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and metabolic regulatory effects. Research on DHM is still emerging, with a growing body of preclinical and early clinical studies. Most evidence is preclinical, with limited human randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Systematic reviews are available but focus on broader herbal-induced liver injury rather than DHM specifically. Further research is needed to fully understand its effects and safety in humans.

Benefits

DHM has demonstrated efficacy in ameliorating hepatic steatosis and reducing liver injury in animal models. In rats fed a high-fat diet, DHM was as effective as metformin in reducing hepatic insulin resistance and steatosis. DHM accelerates ethanol metabolism and reduces alcohol-induced liver injury in animal studies, with evidence suggesting similar mechanisms in humans. DHM increases GLUT2 expression, decreases G6Pase and PEPCK expression, and improves insulin resistance in hepatic tissue. DHM elevates markers of autophagy (Beclin 1, ATG5, LC3-II), which is linked to improved liver health and reduced lipid accumulation. Individuals with NAFLD or metabolic syndrome may benefit from DHM's potential to reduce liver fat and improve insulin sensitivity. Heavy drinkers may experience reduced acute and chronic liver injury from alcohol.

How it works

DHM primarily works by activating the AMPK/PGC-1α/PPARα pathway, which promotes lipid metabolism and reduces hepatic steatosis. It also induces autophagy, reducing lipid accumulation and improving liver health. Additionally, DHM accelerates the breakdown of alcohol, reducing toxic aldehyde buildup and liver injury. These actions primarily affect the liver, reducing fat accumulation, inflammation, and oxidative stress. The metabolic system also benefits through improved insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism. Known molecular targets include AMPK, PGC-1α, PPARα, GLUT2, G6Pase, PEPCK, Beclin 1, ATG5, and LC3-II.

Side effects

DHM is generally well-tolerated in animal studies, but human safety data is limited. Common, uncommon, and rare side effects have not been reported in available studies. No significant drug interactions have been reported, although there is a theoretical potential for additive effects with other hepatoprotective or metabolic agents. There are no established contraindications, but caution is advised in individuals with known hypersensitivity to flavonoids. Safety in pregnant or lactating women, children, and individuals with severe liver disease has not been established. Due to the limited human data, caution is warranted, and further research is needed to fully understand the safety profile of DHM.

Dosage

A minimum effective dose has not been established in humans; animal studies use 100 mg/kg/day. The human equivalent dose (based on animal data) is estimated at 8–16 mg/kg/day, but clinical validation is lacking. The maximum safe dose has not been established in humans. DHM is typically administered orally, with effects observed after several weeks of consistent use. Standardized extracts (≥98% purity) are used in research. DHM is orally bioavailable in animals, but human absorption is not well characterized. No required cofactors have been identified.

FAQs

How effective is DHM?

Evidence is strongest in animal models; human efficacy is not yet confirmed. It shows promise in reducing liver fat and improving insulin sensitivity, but more human studies are needed.

Is DHM safe?

DHM appears safe in limited animal and human use, but long-term safety is unknown. No significant side effects have been reported, but caution is warranted due to limited human data.

How should I take DHM?

Oral administration, typically once daily, is common. Benefits may take several weeks to manifest. It is not a cure for liver disease or alcoholism but may offer adjunctive benefits.

What results can I expect from taking DHM?

Potential benefits include a reduction in liver fat, improved insulin sensitivity, and faster alcohol metabolism. However, these effects are primarily based on animal studies and require confirmation in humans.

Research Sources

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK594407/ – This systematic review identified DHM among 79 herbal ingredients associated with liver injury, drawing from 936 cases across 446 references. The review provides a broad overview of herbal supplements and their potential impact on liver health, but it does not focus specifically on DHM's safety profile.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10964712/ – This preclinical study demonstrated that DHM reduced hepatic steatosis and insulin resistance in rats, comparable to metformin. The study found that DHM induced autophagy and modulated AMPK/PGC-1α/PPARα pathways, providing mechanistic insights into its hepatoprotective effects.
https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/10/2/238 – This study investigates the effects of Dihydromyricetin (DHM) on alcohol metabolism and liver protection. It provides insights into how DHM accelerates ethanol metabolism and reduces liver injury, particularly in the context of alcohol consumption.
https://today.usc.edu/hangover-remedy-dhm-liver-protection-usc-study/ – This article summarizes research on DHM's effects on ethanol metabolism, liver injury, and inflammation in animal models. It highlights DHM's potential as a hangover remedy and liver protector, based on its ability to accelerate alcohol breakdown and reduce liver damage.
https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/14/21/4583 – This study explores the potential therapeutic applications of Dihydromyricetin (DHM) in various health conditions. It discusses DHM's role in promoting liver health, improving metabolic functions, and its antioxidant properties.