Introduction
Dihydromyricetin, or DHM, is a natural flavonoid found in the Hovenia dulcis tree and widely studied for its ability to support liver health, reduce oxidative stress, and help the body process alcohol.
While DHM is promising, it has one major drawback: poor absorption. Most of it breaks down before the body can use it. That’s where piperine, the active compound in black pepper, comes in. Piperine can significantly improve how much DHM the body absorbs and uses.
What the Research Shows
A 2023 study in Frontiers in Nutrition found that DHM supplementation improved key liver health markers in mice exposed to alcohol. Researchers observed lower liver enzymes, reduced cholesterol and triglycerides, and lower inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-alpha and IL-6.
These results suggest DHM helps protect liver cells and support healthy fat metabolism. However, to deliver these benefits effectively in humans, the compound needs to be absorbed better which is where piperine becomes valuable.
How Piperine Improves Absorption
Piperine is best known as nature’s absorption enhancer. It helps nutrients pass through the gut wall more efficiently and slows down enzymes that break them apart too quickly.
When combined with DHM, piperine:
- Increases intestinal uptake so more DHM reaches the bloodstream
- Reduces early breakdown in the liver
- Extends how long DHM stays active in the body
This means better bioavailability, stronger antioxidant support, and more effective recovery.
Safety and Function
Piperine is well-studied and considered safe at the levels used in foods and supplements. Beyond enhancing absorption, it has its own antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a complementary partner for DHM.
The Bottom Line
DHM supports liver health and recovery, but poor absorption limits its full potential. Pairing it with piperine makes it easier for the body to absorb and use effectively. Together, they form a smarter combination that supports inflammation, oxidative stress, and potentially long-term liver wellness.
References
Janilkarn-Urena, I. et al. (2023). Dihydromyricetin supplementation improves ethanol-induced lipid accumulation and inflammation. Frontiers in Nutrition.
Srinivasan, K. (2007). Black pepper and its pungent principle piperine: A review of diverse physiological effects. Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition.