DHM (dihydromyricetin) has been consumed in traditional Asian tea preparations for centuries without documented population-level harms, and short-term supplementation studies have not identified significant adverse effects. Below is a thorough review of DHM’s safety profile based on available evidence.
Is DHM Safe?
The NIH LiverTox database — a clinical reference on drug-induced liver injury — includes a specific entry for DHM and concludes: “Dihydromyricetin preparations have not been linked to instances of serum enzyme elevations or clinically apparent liver injury with jaundice” (PMID: 37643278). This is a meaningful safety marker, given that the liver is DHM’s primary site of action.
Short-term animal studies have demonstrated no adverse effects even at elevated doses. Human reports are predominantly anecdotal and describe mild, self-resolving effects.
Common Side Effects
Digestive Discomfort
The most frequently reported side effect is mild gastrointestinal disturbance, including nausea, stomach cramps, or loose stools. These effects appear most common when DHM is taken on an empty stomach or at higher doses (600 mg or above). Taking DHM with food substantially reduces the likelihood of GI complaints.
Drowsiness
Some users report mild drowsiness, particularly when combining DHM with alcohol. DHM’s interaction with GABA-A receptors — the same system modulated by alcohol and benzodiazepines — may contribute to additive sedation in some individuals. Avoid operating heavy machinery or driving after taking DHM alongside alcohol.
Taste Sensitivity
Pure DHM powder has a slightly bitter, astringent flavor. This is not a health side effect but may be unpleasant for some users. Capsule forms avoid this entirely.
Rare or Theoretical Concerns
No serious adverse events have been reported in the supplement literature for DHM at standard doses. The following represent theoretical concerns based on DHM’s pharmacological mechanisms rather than documented clinical events:
- Additive CNS depression: DHM’s GABA-A receptor activity could theoretically add to CNS depressant effects of alcohol, benzodiazepines, or other sedative medications.
- CYP enzyme interactions: DHM may inhibit cytochrome P450 liver enzymes, potentially affecting metabolism of co-administered medications. No specific drug interaction studies in humans have been published.
Drug Interactions
Benzodiazepines and CNS Depressants
DHM interacts with the benzodiazepine receptor site on GABA-A receptors. Combining DHM with benzodiazepines (such as diazepam, alprazolam, or clonazepam), barbiturates, or other CNS depressants may produce additive sedative effects. Individuals taking any of these medications should consult a healthcare provider before using DHM.
CYP-Metabolized Medications
DHM may influence the activity of cytochrome P450 enzymes including CYP3A4, CYP2C9, and CYP2D6. Many common prescription medications are metabolized by these enzymes — including statins, antidepressants, anticoagulants, and antifungals. If you take any prescription medications, discuss DHM use with your prescribing physician before beginning supplementation.
Alcohol
DHM and alcohol both interact with GABA-A receptors. DHM is specifically used alongside alcohol, but high-dose DHM combined with large amounts of alcohol may produce deeper sedation than either alone. DHM does not eliminate impairment from alcohol.
Who Should Avoid DHM
- Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals: No safety data is available for DHM during pregnancy or lactation. Avoid until data is available.
- Individuals with liver disease: Despite DHM’s hepatoprotective reputation in preclinical studies, those with diagnosed liver conditions should seek physician guidance before supplementing.
- Individuals on prescription CNS depressants or multiple medications metabolized by CYP enzymes: Consult a healthcare provider due to potential interactions.
- Children and adolescents: Safety has not been studied in pediatric populations.
Long-Term Safety
Formal long-term human safety studies for DHM at supplemental doses have not been conducted. The compound’s multi-generational use in traditional tea preparations (at lower concentrations than supplement doses) provides some reassurance, but this does not substitute for clinical long-term safety data. Individuals choosing to supplement DHM long-term should do so under periodic medical supervision.
Summary Table
| Concern | Assessment |
|---|---|
| Liver injury risk | Not documented (LiverTox, PMID: 37643278) |
| GI side effects | Mild, infrequent; reduced by taking with food |
| Drowsiness | Possible, especially combined with alcohol |
| Drug interactions | Theoretical CYP and GABA-A interactions |
| Long-term safety data | Not yet available in humans |
| Pregnancy safety | Insufficient data; avoid |
References
- Dihydromyricetin. LiverTox: Clinical and Research Information on Drug-Induced Liver Injury. NIDDK. 2023. PMID: 37643278
- Getachew B, Csoka AB, Tizabi Y. Dihydromyricetin Protects Against Ethanol-Induced Toxicity in SH-SY5Y Cell Line: Role of GABA(A) Receptor. Neurotox Res. 2022. PMID: 35386023
- Li H, et al. The Versatile Effects of Dihydromyricetin in Health. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2017. PMID: 28947908