The Power of Dihydromyricetin: Uses, Benefits, and Safety
Dihydromyricetin (DHM) has been a subject of interest for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine and, more recently, in modern scientific research. It is renowned for its various health benefits, including its potential to mitigate the effects of alcohol consumption, reduce anxiety, improve skin and hair health, and protect liver function. This blog delves into the multifaceted uses and benefits of DHM, comparing it to other well-known supplements like milk thistle, and explores its safety and efficacy.
What Is Dihydromyricetin (DHM)
Dihydromyricetin (DHM), also known as ampelopsin, is a natural flavonoid compound known for its antioxidant properties. This compound is found predominantly in the Japanese raisin tree (Hovenia dulcis) and the Ampelopsis grossedentata plant.
These compounds help protect the body against oxidative stress and inflammation, which can lead to various chronic diseases. DHM, in particular, has gained attention for its unique properties and wide range of potential health benefits. It is commonly extracted from the Japanese raisin tree and is available in various forms.
Fig 1. Plant origin and chemical structure of dihydromyricetin
What Is Dihydromyricetin Used For
DHM is utilized for various purposes, because of its diverse therapeutic properties. Some of the primary uses include:
- Alcohol Hangover Relief: One of the most popular uses of DHM is to alleviate hangover symptoms.
- Anxiety Reduction: DHM has shown promise in reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation.
- Skin Health: Its antioxidant properties contribute to improved skin health and anti-aging effects.
- Hair Health: DHM may support hair growth and strength.
- Liver Protection: It offers hepatoprotective benefits, safeguarding the liver against damage.
- Headache Relief: DHM might help in reducing the frequency and severity of headaches.
Fig 2. The Benefits of Dihydromyricetin
–Dihydromyricetin for Hangovers
DHM has gained a lot of praise for its ability to lessen hangover symptoms. People think it works by speeding up how the liver breaks down alcohol and lowering alcohol’s effects on the brain. Research points to DHM changing the GABA receptors in the brain, which alcohol impacts. By getting these receptors back to normal, DHM can help ease symptoms like headaches feeling sick, being tired, and having a foggy mind that often comes with hangovers.
–Dihydromyricetin for Anxiety
Research indicates that DHM may have anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) properties. It is thought to interact with the central nervous system in a way that promotes relaxation and reduces stress. The modulation of GABA receptors not only helps with hangovers but also plays a crucial role in anxiety management. By enhancing the calming effects of GABA, DHM can potentially reduce feelings of anxiety and improve overall mental well-being.
–Dihydromyricetin for Skin
DHM’s antioxidant qualities make it useful for skin health. Antioxidants fight free radicals, which can trigger oxidative stress and speed up aging and skin damage. By fighting these free radicals, DHM keeps skin elastic, cuts down on wrinkles, and helps maintain a young look. What’s more, it can calm irritated skin and lower the chances of acne and other skin issues because of its power to reduce inflammation.
–Dihydromyricetin for Hair
DHM also helps hair health. Its antioxidant traits shield hair roots from oxidative harm leading to healthier and stronger hair. Also, by boosting blood flow and cutting down on inflammation, DHM might help hair grow and stop hair loss. Using DHM supplements or putting it on your skin could result in thicker, shinier, and tougher hair.
–Dihydromyricetin for Liver
Dihydromyricetin offers a big plus: it guards the liver. Your liver cleans toxins from your body, and too much booze can hurt it. Studies show that DHM shields the liver from this harm. It does this by boosting enzymes that break down alcohol and cutting down on cell stress. This makes DHM a key helper for keeping your liver healthy especially if you drink alcohol.
Dihydromyricetin vs. Milk Thistle
People often compare milk thistle to DHM as a supplement for liver health. Both help protect the liver, but they work. Milk thistle has silymarin, which shields liver cells from toxins and helps the liver grow back. DHM speeds up how the body breaks down alcohol and cuts down on oxidative stress. While both supplements boost liver health, DHM might work better for quick hangover relief. Milk thistle, however, might offer wider liver protection over time.
Read more: Introduction to Milk Thistle: A Fatty Liver Savior
–Dihydromyricetin for Headache
Besides easing hangovers, DHM might also help reduce headaches. It affects GABA receptors and lowers inflammation, which can ease the pain and discomfort of headaches. Its support for liver function also plays a part. A healthy liver can clean toxins from the body more and cut down on things that trigger headaches.
Is Dihydromyricetin Safe
DHM has a reputation for safety among most users when consumed in proper amounts. Still, like any supplement, it might cause side effects. Some people could feel a bit sick to their stomach maybe feeling queasy or having loose stools. It’s crucial to check with your doctor before you start taking DHM if you have health issues or you’re on other meds. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should also seek medical advice before using DHM.
Dihydromyricetin: How Long to Work
The onset of DHM’s effects can vary depending on the individual and the context in which it is used. For hangover relief, many users report feeling better within 30 minutes to an hour after taking DHM. For anxiety reduction, it may take a few days of regular use to notice significant improvements. When used for skin and hair health, the benefits may become apparent over several weeks of consistent use. The protective effects on the liver can also be seen over time with regular supplementation.
Stanford Chemical Company (SCC) is an excellent supplier of herb extracts. We provide Dihydromyricetin (DHM), Swertiamarin, Shikimic Acid, and other extracts. For more information on these materials, please check our home page.
Conclusion
Dihydromyricetin is a versatile and beneficial supplement with a wide range of health applications. From alleviating hangovers and reducing anxiety to promoting skin and hair health and protecting the liver, DHM offers numerous advantages. While generally safe, it is essential to use DHM responsibly and consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen. As research continues, the full potential of DHM will likely become even more evident, solidifying its place in the world of natural health and wellness.
