What Is DHM? The Science Behind the Ingredient
Dihydromyricetin (DHM) is a plant-derived compound studied for its role in alcohol metabolism.
Shop Morning RecoveryWhat is Dihydromyricetin (DHM)?
Dihydromyricetin, commonly known as DHM, is a natural flavonoid extracted from the Japanese raisin tree (Hovenia dulcis). For centuries, traditional Eastern practices have utilized extracts from this plant in various wellness contexts, particularly surrounding alcohol consumption.
Scientific studies have focused on how DHM may interact with the ALDH (aldehyde dehydrogenase) enzyme pathway. The ALDH enzyme is responsible for breaking down alcohol byproducts in the body, and researchers continue to observe DHM's potential role in supporting this metabolic breakdown.
Alcohol Metabolism Pathway
Alcohol is introduced into the system.
Enzymes convert alcohol into acetaldehyde (a toxic byproduct).
ALDH converts acetaldehyde into harmless acetate. Researchers study DHM to observe its interaction with this specific clearance mechanism.
The Scientific Research
DHM has been the subject of growing scientific interest. While human clinical trials are still in early stages, substantial foundational research has been conducted in animal models to understand how this compound behaves physiologically.
2012
Foundational Study
The landmark USC study on DHM observed its interactions with GABA receptors in animal models, sparking modern scientific interest.
2023
NIH LiverTox
DHM is documented in the NIH clinical reference database, noting its botanical origins and traditional use history.
2023
USC Liver Metabolism Study
Early research findings on DHM and alcohol metabolism were published in this highly respected peer-reviewed scientific journal.
What the Clinical Research Shows
DHM doesn't work through a single mechanism. A 2015 double-blind, randomized controlled clinical trial published in Pharmacological Research found it acting across multiple metabolic systems simultaneously, in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.
In Glucose & Lipid Metabolism
In a published clinical trial involving adults with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, participants receiving 300mg of DHM daily showed significant reductions in fasting blood glucose and LDL-cholesterol compared to placebo. These findings support healthy glucose metabolism and help maintain healthy lipid levels, observed consistently over the three-month study period.
In Liver Health & Function
The same clinical trial measured ALT, AST, and γ-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT), standard biomarkers used to assess liver function. All three markers declined significantly in DHM-treated participants. No adverse events were reported in either group, establishing a strong safety profile alongside the observed functional benefits.
In Insulin & Inflammatory Pathways
DHM supplementation significantly reduced the HOMA-IR index, the clinical standard for measuring insulin resistance, supporting insulin sensitivity. Simultaneously, levels of TNF-α and other inflammatory biomarkers decreased, while adiponectin, a beneficial metabolic hormone, increased. Together, these findings point to broad support for reducing oxidative stress and inflammation.
DHM in Morning Recovery
DHM is one of several key ingredients included in the Morning Recovery formula. Our team designed a comprehensive blend that combines DHM with other supportive nutrients to create a complete solution.
Highly soluble DHM extract
Vitamin B complex for energy metabolism
Electrolytes for hydration support
Milk thistle and prickly pear extract
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Frequently Asked Questions
DHM is a plant-derived flavonoid from the Japanese raisin tree studied for its role in supporting metabolic and liver health pathways.
DHM has been studied for its interaction with metabolic, liver, and oxidative stress pathways, supporting overall cellular balance.
Yes. DHM has been studied in both preclinical and emerging human research, including a randomized, double-blind clinical trial examining metabolic health outcomes .
DHM has been studied in early research for its interaction with alcohol metabolism pathways. However, human clinical evidence directly linking DHM to alcohol metabolism remains limited.
Research suggests DHM may support:
- Glucose metabolism
- Lipid balance
- Liver health pathways
- Insulin sensitivity
- Oxidative stress and inflammation balance
Morning Recovery is formulated with DHM at levels aligned with clinical research (~300 mg per day).
DHM is a naturally derived compound that has been studied in both traditional use and modern research settings and is generally considered safe when used as directed.
DHM is included in Morning Recovery and Morning Recovery Energy.