Dihydromyricetin, or DHM, is a natural compound gaining attention as a popular dietary supplement, primarily associated with mitigating some effects of alcohol consumption. This substance is classified as a flavonoid, a type of plant-derived nutrient known for its antioxidant properties. DHM is widely marketed for liver support and as a potential aid against the undesirable after-effects of drinking. Scientific inquiry has focused on how this compound interacts with both the body’s metabolic processes and the brain’s neurochemistry when alcohol is present.
Origin and Composition
The source of dihydromyricetin is primarily the Japanese Raisin Tree, scientifically known as Hovenia dulcis, which is native to East Asia. Extracts from the fruit, seeds, and stems of this tree have been used for centuries in traditional Chinese and Korean medicine for various ailments, including those related to alcohol intoxication. DHM itself is a dihydroflavonol, a specific subgroup of flavonoids. These compounds are valued for their biological activity. DHM is considered the main active component in Hovenia dulcis extracts, responsible for the plant’s reputed effects against alcohol.
How DHM Interacts with Alcohol Metabolism
Dihydromyricetin is theorized to influence alcohol’s effects through a dual-action mechanism targeting both the liver and the brain.
Liver Metabolism
In the liver, DHM is proposed to accelerate the body’s natural alcohol breakdown process. The body first converts alcohol (ethanol) into a highly toxic compound called acetaldehyde using the enzyme Alcohol Dehydrogenase (ADH). Acetaldehyde is responsible for many of the unpleasant physical symptoms associated with drinking. DHM is thought to enhance the activity of both ADH and a second enzyme, Acetaldehyde Dehydrogenase (ALDH). ALDH quickly converts the toxic acetaldehyde into harmless acetate. By boosting the speed of both these enzyme reactions, DHM may reduce the amount of time acetaldehyde remains in the body, lessening its toxic effects.
Neurochemical Interaction
In the brain, DHM is believed to modulate the activity of gamma-aminobutyric acid type A (GABA-A) receptors. Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant that works by enhancing the inhibitory signals sent by the GABA-A receptors, leading to sedation and loss of coordination. DHM is suggested to act as an antagonist, competing with alcohol at these receptor sites. By blocking some of alcohol’s action at the GABA-A receptors, DHM may counteract the acute intoxicating effects, helping to maintain clearer cognitive function and motor control.
Current Scientific Understanding
Research into DHM has provided support for its dual mechanism of action, though much of the early evidence came from animal models. Studies on rodents demonstrated that DHM could significantly reduce the duration of alcohol-induced intoxication, even at doses that did not substantially alter blood alcohol levels. This finding suggests the compound’s effect on GABA-A receptors plays a significant role in counteracting immediate intoxication symptoms. Further animal research has indicated DHM’s hepatoprotective capabilities, showing a reduction in ethanol-induced liver injury and inflammation. These findings align with the theory that DHM promotes faster clearance of acetaldehyde and possesses general antioxidant properties. While animal data is compelling, direct human clinical trials are less numerous but growing. Preliminary human studies have begun to examine the real-world impact of DHM on hangover symptoms. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial showed that DHM supplementation led to a significant reduction in overall hangover severity scores and improved recovery of cognitive function compared to the placebo group. However, the overall body of human evidence is still considered preliminary, and ongoing research is necessary to fully validate the extent of DHM’s benefits.
Safety Profile and Usage Guidelines
Dihydromyricetin is generally sold as a dietary supplement and is not approved by regulatory bodies, such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, for the treatment of any disease or condition. This classification means DHM is not subject to the same rigorous testing and approval process as pharmaceutical drugs. Despite this, DHM has been used in Asian traditional medicine for a long time and is widely described as having a favorable safety profile. The typical range for DHM supplementation is between 300 mg and 1000 mg. Some protocols suggest a dose of 300 mg to 600 mg taken shortly before or during alcohol consumption to maximize its effect. Most people tolerate DHM well, and reported side effects are generally mild and infrequent. Some users have noted occasional mild digestive discomfort, such as stomach upset or nausea. It is advisable to consult a healthcare provider before beginning any new supplement, particularly for individuals taking prescription medications or those with pre-existing health conditions.