Chemical Properties: It belongs to the dihydroflavonol compound family, with a molecular formula of C₁₅H₁₂O₈. Its structural feature is a saturated bond between C2 and C3 in the flavonoid backbone (distinguishing it from myricetin, which has an unsaturated bond). This structure endows it with better water solubility and stability than most flavonoids.
Natural Sources: It is mainly found in plants of the Vitaceae family, especially Ampelopsis grossedentata (commonly known as "tengcha" or vine tea), where its content can reach 20%-30% of the dry weight. It is also present in small amounts in other plants such as grapes and Parthenocissus tricuspidata. Plant derived dihydromyricetin for health is valued for its natural origin, making it a preferred choice in health-oriented products.
Health Benefits
Liver Protection and Anti-Alcohol Damage
Accelerates alcohol metabolism: By upregulating alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) and aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH), it promotes the breakdown of ethanol and acetaldehyde (a toxic intermediate), alleviating hangover symptoms (e.g., headache, nausea).
Inhibits liver damage: Reduces liver fibrosis and inflammation caused by alcohol or non-alcoholic factors (e.g., high-fat diet), protects liver cells, and lowers the risk of fatty liver and cirrhosis.
Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Effects
Strong antioxidant activity: Scavenges free radicals (e.g., ROS) and inhibits lipid peroxidation, with efficacy surpassing common antioxidants like vitamin C.
Anti-inflammatory action: Blocks inflammatory signaling pathways such as NF-κB, inhibits pro-inflammatory factors (e.g., TNF-α, IL-6), and alleviates chronic inflammation (e.g., arthritis, intestinal inflammation).
Metabolic Regulation
Aids blood sugar control: Improves insulin sensitivity, inhibits α-glucosidase (slowing carbohydrate digestion), and reduces blood glucose levels.
Regulates blood lipids: Lowers triglycerides and LDL cholesterol, reduces fat accumulation, and assists in weight loss and prevention of cardiovascular diseases.
Neuroprotection
Reduces neuronal damage: Combats oxidative stress and amyloid-β (Aβ) toxicity, potentially delaying the progression of Alzheimer’s disease.
Improves cognition: Promotes hippocampal neurogenesis, enhancing learning and memory abilities.
Application Fields Traditional Medicine and Folk Applications
Tengcha (rich in DHM) has been used as a herbal tea in Chinese folk medicine to "clear heat and resolve toxins," alleviating conditions such as sore throat, dysentery, and urinary tract infections.
Dietary Supplements
Marketed as liver-nourishing and hangover-relieving supplements (e.g., High purity Dihydromyricetin Powder, capsules) with a typical dosage of 50-500 mg/day, suitable for people who drink alcohol and those at risk of fatty liver. Functional Foods
Added to beverages and snacks to enhance antioxidant and blood sugar-regulating functions, targeting people with health management needs (e.g., prediabetic individuals, those losing weight).
Pharmaceutical Research and Development
Served as a candidate drug, it is being studied for its potential in treating alcoholic liver disease, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, type 2 diabetes, and neurodegenerative diseases, currently in preclinical or small-scale trial stages.
Daily Chemicals and Agriculture
Due to its antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, it is being tested in skin care products (for anti-aging and anti-inflammatory effects) and preservation of agricultural products (to extend shelf life).
Contact Now
