Fruit

Hovenia Dulcis

Provisional Moderate ScoreCompound

Hermetica Superfood Encyclopedia

Published March 15, 2026Last updated March 15, 2026Methodology · Editorial policy · Report an error

Evidence review status: unreviewed

Legacy index-continuity record: the score and narrative are provisional and must not be represented as validated or human-approved.

Review flags: AWAITING_SEMANTIC_VALIDATION

Provisional Summary

Hovenia dulcis, also known as the Japanese Raisin Tree, contains potent bioactives like ampelopsin (dihydromyricetin) in its fruits and peduncles. Ampelopsin supports alcohol metabolism, offers hepatoprotection, and inhibits angiogenesis by suppressing VEGFR2 signaling and HIF-1α expression.

—

Screened PMID Records

Reported Benefits

Pending

Synergy Review

At a Glance

CategoryFruit

GroupFruit

Public Score StatusProvisional Moderate

Primary KeywordHovenia Dulcis benefits

Hovenia Dulcis close-up macro showing natural texture and detail — rich in antioxidant, stress, liver

Hovenia Dulcis — botanical close-up

Reported Benefits (Provisional)

Exhibits potent antioxidant activity from flavonoids like dihydromyricetin (DHM), quercetin, and kaempferol, combating oxidative stress.

Supports liver health by enhancing alcohol metabolism and protecting against hepatotoxicity.

Demonstrates anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting pro-inflammatory mediators

Aids in hangover relief by accelerating alcohol clearance and mitigating symptoms.

Traditionally used to treat fever and parasitic infections in herbal medicine

Origin & History

Natural habitat

Hovenia dulcis, also known as the Japanese Raisin Tree, is a fruit tree native to East Asia, particularly China, Korea, and Japan. It thrives in temperate climates with well-drained soils and consistent sunlight. This botanical is highly valued for its unique bioactive compounds, particularly for liver support.

“Revered in East Asian healing traditions, Hovenia dulcis, or the Japanese Raisin Tree, has long been used to soothe the liver and purify the body. Its traditional efficacy for liver conditions and intoxication-related symptoms is now validated by modern wellness research.”Traditional Medicine

Research Narrative (Provisional)

Scientific studies, including those from USC and peer-reviewed pharmacological research, validate dihydromyricetin's (DHM) effects in mitigating alcohol-induced liver damage and supporting liver function. Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities have also been confirmed, providing a strong evidence base for its traditional uses.

Preparation & Dosage

Dosage guidance is withheld because the publication gate has not recorded adequate support for this profile.

Nutritional Profile

- Essential amino acids. - Trace vitamins and minerals. - Phytochemicals: Flavonoids (dihydromyricetin, quercetin, kaempferol).

Reported Mechanism (Provisional)

Mechanism of Action

Hovenia dulcis exerts its effects through key compounds such as ampelopsin (dihydromyricetin), which enhances alcohol catabolism. Ampelopsin further demonstrates anti-angiogenic properties by suppressing VEGFR2 signaling in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and inhibiting HIF-1α expression in HepG2 hepatocarcinoma cells. Additionally, flavonoids like quercetin and kaempferol contribute to its significant antioxidant activity, combating oxidative stress.

Clinical Narrative (Provisional)

Scientific studies, including peer-reviewed pharmacological research, validate the effects of dihydromyricetin (DHM) and other compounds in Hovenia dulcis for mitigating alcohol-induced liver damage and supporting liver function. Research indicates its potential in enhancing alcohol metabolism and offering hepatoprotection, as well as demonstrating anti-angiogenesis and anti-allergic effects. While specific study types and sample sizes are not detailed, the outcomes point towards benefits in liver health and cellular protection.

Also Known As

Hovenia dulcis Thunb.Japanese Raisin TreeOriental Raisin Tree

Browse All Ingredients More Fruit About the Encyclopedia

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

From the Hermetica Research Desk

Research updates — and 25% off your first order

Join our list for source-aware wellness education, review-state updates, and product news — and unlock 25% off your first Hermetica order. Educational content is not medical advice. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.

Educational content only — not medical advice.