ACEND

The Power of Dihydromyricetin: A Polyphenol for Chronic Inflammation and Beyond

Dihydromyricetin: A Small Molecule with Big Potential

The Power of Dihydromyricetin: A Polyphenol for Chronic Inflammation, Mental Health, and Longevity

Chronic inflammation is a silent contributor to many debilitating diseases, including Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, metabolic syndrome, and various cancers. As the search for effective remedies intensifies, polyphenols like dihydromyricetin (DHM) emerge as promising agents for combating inflammation and promoting overall health. Found primarily in the Ampelopsis grossedentata plant, dihydromyricetin is a flavonoid with exceptional health benefits, making it a cornerstone of ACEND’s formulation.

In this article, we explore the rich history and modern applications of dihydromyricetin, diving deeper into its origins, mechanisms of action (MOA), pharmacokinetics, and its role in addressing chronic inflammation, mood modulation, and longevity. We also highlight key clinical studies that validate its efficacy.

What is Dihydromyricetin?

Dihydromyricetin, also known as DHM or ampelopsin, is a flavonoid compound belonging to the dihydroflavonol class. It is predominantly extracted from the leaves and stems of Ampelopsis grossedentata, a vine native to southern China and parts of Southeast Asia. This plant, often referred to as “tengcha” or vine tea, has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine for its health-promoting properties.

Traditional Uses

In traditional medicine, dihydromyricetin-rich vine tea has been consumed for its ability to:

  • Detoxify the liver.
  • Reduce inflammation in the body.
  • Promote longevity and cellular function.
  • Enhance mental clarity and mood stability.

These applications highlight DHM’s historical significance as a natural remedy, laying the foundation for its modern therapeutic exploration.

Scientific Validation: Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Dihydromyricetin has garnered significant attention in scientific research for its potent anti-inflammatory effects. Here, we reference five key clinical studies that underscore its efficacy:

  1. Reduction of Pro-Inflammatory Cytokines A study published in Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy (2017) demonstrated that DHM effectively inhibited the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines, including IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-1β, by suppressing the NF-κB signaling pathway. This reduction is critical in conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease.
  2. Neuroprotective and Anti-Inflammatory Effects Research in Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience (2020) highlighted DHM’s role in mitigating neuroinflammation in models of Alzheimer’s disease. The study showed that DHM decreased amyloid-beta accumulation and reduced microglial activation, key drivers of neuroinflammation.
  3. Oxidative Stress and Inflammation in Cardiovascular Health A paper in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology(2016) confirmed that DHM’s antioxidant properties help prevent lipid peroxidation and reduce endothelial inflammation, crucial for cardiovascular disease prevention.
  4. Metabolic Inflammation Findings in Molecular Nutrition & Food Research (2018) revealed that DHM activated the AMPK pathway, improving insulin sensitivity and reducing metabolic inflammation linked to obesity and type 2 diabetes.
  5. Liver Inflammation and Fibrosis A study in International Journal of Molecular Sciences (2019) showed that DHM alleviated alcohol-induced liver damage by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress while promoting liver regeneration.

Dihydromyricetin and Chronic Diseases

1. Neurodegenerative Disorders

DHM’s ability to cross the blood-brain barrier makes it a valuable ally against neuroinflammation. By reducing the accumulation of amyloid-beta plaques in Alzheimer’s disease and protecting dopaminergic neurons in Parkinson’s disease, DHM shows promise as a neuroprotective agent.

Studies indicate that DHM mitigates the activation of microglial cells—the brain’s immune cells—which are often overactivated in neurodegenerative conditions. This effect reduces the release of neurotoxic substances, preserving neuronal health.

2. Metabolic Syndrome and Diabetes

Chronic inflammation is a hallmark of metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes. DHM’s activation of the AMPK pathway improves glucose metabolism and enhances insulin sensitivity. Furthermore, DHM reduces oxidative stress in pancreatic beta cells, protecting their ability to produce insulin.

3. Cardiovascular Disease

By reducing endothelial inflammation and oxidative stress, DHM promotes vascular health and prevents the development of atherosclerosis. Its ability to inhibit lipid peroxidation reduces the risk of plaque formation, a leading cause of heart attacks and strokes.

4. Liver Health

Liver diseases, including non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and alcoholic liver disease, are often driven by chronic inflammation. DHM protects the liver by reducing oxidative damage, promoting detoxification, and supporting tissue repair.

5. Cancer Prevention

Dihydromyricetin’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties may also contribute to its anti-cancer potential. By modulating signaling pathways like NF-κB and reducing DNA damage caused by oxidative stress, DHM can inhibit tumor progression in certain cancers.

Mood Modulation and Mental Health

Modulating Neurotransmitter Activity

Dihydromyricetin’s ability to cross the blood-brain barrier makes it an effective modulator of mood and mental health. By interacting with GABA receptors, DHM has been shown to:

  • Enhance inhibitory neurotransmission, reducing anxiety and stress.
  • Normalize sleep cycles, particularly in individuals with alcohol-induced disruptions.

Clinical Evidence for Mood Regulation

A study published in Neuropharmacology (2018) explored DHM’s antidepressant-like effects in animal models. It demonstrated that DHM reduced depressive behaviors by modulating the HPA axis and increasing brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels.

Protecting Against Neurodegeneration

By reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain, DHM not only improves mood but also protects against long-term damage that can lead to depression and cognitive decline.

Dihydromyricetin and Healthspan

Activation of Longevity Pathways

Research has identified DHM as a potent activator of longevity-associated pathways. By activating AMPK and sirtuins, DHM enhances mitochondrial function, reduces cellular aging, and promotes autophagy.

Reducing Age-Related Inflammation

Known as “inflammaging,” chronic low-grade inflammation is a hallmark of aging. DHM’s ability to suppress NF-κB activity and reduce oxidative stress directly addresses this phenomenon, contributing to improved lifespan and healthspan.

Evidence from Animal Studies

A study in Aging Cell (2021) demonstrated that DHM extended the lifespan of model organisms by reducing systemic inflammation and oxidative damage.

Mechanisms of Action (MOA)

Dihydromyricetin’s wide-ranging effects stem from its interaction with key biological pathways:

  1. Inhibition of NF-κB Pathway By blocking this pro-inflammatory transcription factor, DHM reduces the production of cytokines and inflammatory enzymes.
  2. Scavenging Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) DHM’s antioxidant activity neutralizes ROS, preventing oxidative damage and inflammation.
  3. Modulation of AMPK Pathway Activation of AMPK improves cellular energy balance, reduces inflammation, and enhances metabolic health.
  4. Regulation of GABA Receptors This mechanism underlies DHM’s calming effects on the nervous system, improving mood and resilience to stress.
  5. Reduction of Lesser-Known Biomarkers
    • High Mobility Group Box 1 Protein (HMGB1): DHM decreases the release of this DAMP molecule, which drives inflammatory responses in chronic diseases.
    • Monocyte Chemoattractant Protein-1 (MCP-1): DHM inhibits MCP-1 activity, reducing monocyte recruitment and systemic inflammation.
    • Myeloperoxidase (MPO): DHM mitigates oxidative stress caused by MPO, a marker linked to vascular inflammation.
    • Resistin: DHM helps regulate resistin levels, addressing its inflammatory role in insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome.
    • Leukotrienes: DHM reduces the production of leukotrienes, lipid mediators that amplify inflammation in allergic and autoimmune disorders.

Pharmacokinetics and Metabolism

Upon ingestion, DHM is rapidly absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract and metabolized in the liver. Key metabolites, including glucuronide and sulfate conjugates, retain bioactivity while enhancing solubility and excretion.

The gut microbiota plays a pivotal role in breaking down DHM into smaller phenolic compounds, amplifying its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.

Dihydromyricetin in ACEND

ACEND incorporates dihydromyricetin as a vital ingredient, leveraging its unique properties to combat chronic inflammation, support mental health, and promote longevity. By combining DHM with other scientifically validated nutrients, ACEND offers a comprehensive approach to health optimization.

Conclusion

Dihydromyricetin is a polyphenol of extraordinary potential. Its ability to reduce inflammation, modulate mood, and support longevity positions it as a powerful tool in the fight against chronic diseases and age-related decline.

As part of ACEND’s innovative formulation, DHM exemplifies the transformative potential of food-as-medicine. By including dihydromyricetin in your daily regimen, you can proactively support your health, vitality, and well-being for years to come.