# Lavitol (Dihydroquercetin from Dahurian Larch)

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/lavitol
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-03-28
**Evidence Score:** 2 / 10
**Category:** Other
**Also Known As:** Dihydroquercetin, Taxifolin, Dahurian Larch Extract, Larix gmelinii extract, 3,3',4',5,7-Pentahydroxyflavanone, DHQ, Catechin-7-ol, Distylin

## Overview

Lavitol is a standardized dihydroquercetin (taxifolin) extract derived from Dahurian larch (Larix gmelinii) bark, a flavonoid antioxidant that neutralizes free radicals by donating hydrogen atoms to [reactive oxygen species](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant). Its primary mechanism involves inhibiting lipid peroxidation and modulating NF-κB [inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) signaling pathways.

## Health Benefits

• Potent [antioxidant activity](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) that may help reduce oxidative stress (supported by preclinical studies) • [Anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) effects demonstrated through reduction of inflammatory markers in tissue studies (preliminary evidence) • Enhanced wound healing observed in thermal burn models when combined with L-lysine (animal study evidence) • Potential [antiviral](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) properties through multiple mechanisms including direct viral protein inhibition (in vitro evidence) • May support metabolic health based on systematic review of weight loss in animal models (meta-analysis of 8 preclinical studies)

## Mechanism of Action

Dihydroquercetin (taxifolin) scavenges [reactive oxygen species](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) including superoxide anions and hydroxyl radicals through its catechol B-ring structure, which readily donates hydrogen atoms to halt lipid peroxidation chain reactions. It inhibits the NF-κB signaling pathway, reducing downstream expression of [pro-inflammatory cytokine](/ingredients/condition/inflammation)s including TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6. Additionally, taxifolin activates the Nrf2/ARE pathway, upregulating endogenous antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase, amplifying cellular oxidative defense beyond direct free radical scavenging.

## Clinical Summary

Most evidence for Lavitol dihydroquercetin originates from in vitro cell studies and animal models rather than large randomized controlled human trials, limiting the strength of current conclusions. Preclinical studies in rodent thermal burn models demonstrated accelerated wound closure and reduced [inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) infiltration when dihydroquercetin was applied topically or administered alongside standard care. Small-scale human studies and observational data from Russian clinical practice suggest potential benefits for [cardiovascular risk](/ingredients/condition/heart-health) markers and microcirculation, though sample sizes typically ranged from 30–80 participants without robust placebo controls. Overall, the evidence base is preliminary and promising but requires larger, well-designed RCTs to confirm efficacy in humans.

## Nutritional Profile

Lavitol (Dihydroquercetin/Taxifolin from Dahurian Larch, Larix gmelinii) is a concentrated bioactive flavonoid extract, not a conventional food ingredient, so macronutrient content is negligible. Key compositional data: Dihydroquercetin (taxifolin) content typically ≥90–98% purity in commercial Lavitol preparations, with the active compound being a flavanonol (dihydroflavonol) with molecular weight 304.25 g/mol. Molecular formula C15H12O7. Contains two chiral centers at C-2 and C-3. Trace phenolic co-extractives from larch heartwood may be present at <2–5%, including aromadendrin and naringenin derivatives. No meaningful protein, fat, carbohydrate, dietary fiber, or caloric contribution at typical supplemental doses (50–300 mg/day). No vitamins or minerals are intrinsic to the extract. Bioavailability: Dihydroquercetin demonstrates moderate oral bioavailability; its 3D structure (saturated C2–C3 bond) compared to quercetin confers greater aqueous solubility (approximately 0.4 mg/mL in water at room temperature) and improved stability under physiological pH conditions. Peak plasma concentration (Tmax) observed at approximately 1–2 hours post-ingestion in available pharmacokinetic data. Undergoes hepatic phase-II conjugation (glucuronidation, sulfation) and limited gut microbiota [metabolism](/ingredients/condition/weight-management) to taxifolin-related catechols. Lipid co-administration may enhance absorption. [Antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) potency: ORAC value estimated at approximately 100–150 μmol TE/mg, substantially higher than standard vitamin C or vitamin E on a per-weight basis in in vitro assays.

## Dosage & Preparation

In animal studies, therapeutic doses ranged from 15 mg/kg body weight for single administration to 2000 mg/kg in subchronic toxicity studies. The standardized extract contains 97.5% dihydroquercetin with trace amounts of other flavonoids. Human dosing recommendations are not established based on available clinical evidence. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

Dihydroquercetin is generally considered well-tolerated at typical supplemental doses of 50–200 mg per day, with no serious adverse effects reported in available short-term human studies. Because it may inhibit CYP450 enzymes including CYP3A4 and CYP2C9, caution is warranted when combining it with medications metabolized by these pathways, such as warfarin, statins, or certain anticoagulants, as plasma levels could be altered. Its [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) and platelet-modulating properties suggest a theoretical additive bleeding risk when combined with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs including aspirin or clopidogrel. Safety data in pregnant or breastfeeding women is insufficient, and use during pregnancy should be avoided until further research is available.

## Scientific Research

The evidence base consists primarily of preclinical safety and efficacy studies, including a comprehensive toxicological assessment covering genotoxicity, 90-day subchronic toxicity, and developmental toxicity studies. A systematic review and meta-analysis (PROSPERO CRD420251129793) evaluated dihydroquercetin's effects on weight loss across 8 animal studies involving 175 subjects. No human randomized controlled trials were identified in the available literature, though a clinical trial for post-COVID-19 therapy was mentioned.

## Historical & Cultural Context

The research does not provide information about traditional or historical use of Lavitol. The ingredient appears to be a modern pharmaceutical development rather than a traditional remedy with documented historical applications.

## Synergistic Combinations

L-lysine, vitamin C, quercetin, resveratrol, green tea extract

## Frequently Asked Questions

### What is Lavitol dihydroquercetin and how is it different from regular quercetin?

Lavitol is a trademarked dihydroquercetin (taxifolin) extract standardized from Dahurian larch bark, structurally distinct from quercetin by the addition of two hydrogen atoms at the 2,3 position of the C-ring, making it a flavanonol rather than a flavonol. This structural difference gives taxifolin greater water solubility than quercetin and a reportedly higher free radical scavenging capacity in aqueous biological environments. Unlike quercetin, dihydroquercetin lacks the 2,3-double bond conjugation, altering its bioavailability profile and specific receptor interactions.

### What is the recommended dosage of Lavitol dihydroquercetin?

Typical supplemental doses of Lavitol dihydroquercetin range from 50 mg to 200 mg per day, often divided into two doses taken with meals to support absorption. Russian pharmaceutical formulations, where taxifolin has been used clinically for decades, commonly employ doses of 60–120 mg daily for cardiovascular and antioxidant applications. No universally established optimal human dose exists based on large-scale RCTs, so following manufacturer guidelines and consulting a healthcare provider is advisable.

### Can Lavitol dihydroquercetin help with inflammation?

Preclinical evidence indicates dihydroquercetin suppresses inflammation by inhibiting NF-κB nuclear translocation, which reduces transcription of pro-inflammatory cytokines including TNF-α, IL-1β, and COX-2-mediated prostaglandin synthesis. In vitro studies using LPS-stimulated macrophage models have shown significant reductions in inflammatory marker expression at concentrations of 10–50 µM. Human clinical evidence remains limited, so while the mechanism is scientifically plausible, dihydroquercetin should not be used as a replacement for prescribed anti-inflammatory treatments.

### Does Lavitol dihydroquercetin interact with blood thinners or medications?

Dihydroquercetin may inhibit hepatic CYP3A4 and CYP2C9 enzymes, which are responsible for metabolizing drugs including warfarin, statins, and certain calcium channel blockers, potentially increasing their plasma concentrations and side effect risk. Its mild platelet-aggregation inhibitory activity could theoretically enhance the effects of anticoagulants like warfarin or antiplatelet agents like clopidogrel, raising bleeding risk. Anyone taking prescription blood thinners, anticoagulants, or drugs with narrow therapeutic windows should consult a physician before using Lavitol supplements.

### Is Lavitol dihydroquercetin safe for long-term use?

Short-term use of dihydroquercetin at doses up to 200 mg/day appears well-tolerated based on available human data, with no significant adverse events reported in studies lasting up to 12 weeks. Long-term safety data beyond three months in controlled human trials is sparse, making definitive conclusions about chronic use difficult. Individuals with liver conditions, hormone-sensitive conditions, or those taking multiple medications should exercise caution and seek medical guidance before committing to extended supplementation.

### What research quality and evidence level supports Lavitol dihydroquercetin's claimed benefits?

Most evidence for Lavitol dihydroquercetin comes from preclinical and animal studies rather than large-scale human clinical trials, with preliminary support for antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects through tissue and biochemical markers. While animal models show promise for wound healing when combined with L-lysine and potential antiviral mechanisms, human efficacy data remains limited and further clinical research is needed to establish optimal therapeutic applications. The branded ingredient format allows for standardized extraction and concentration from Dahurian Larch, but independent confirmation of bioavailability in humans is still developing.

### Who would benefit most from taking Lavitol dihydroquercetin supplementation?

Individuals seeking general antioxidant support and those interested in reducing oxidative stress may find Lavitol dihydroquercetin beneficial, particularly when combined with complementary ingredients like L-lysine for enhanced wellness support. People concerned with inflammatory markers or those looking for natural polyphenol options may consider this ingredient, though current evidence is strongest in preclinical contexts. Those with specific health conditions should consult a healthcare provider to determine whether Lavitol supplementation aligns with their individual needs.

### How does the bioavailability of Lavitol dihydroquercetin compare to other quercetin sources?

Dihydroquercetin, the active form in Lavitol, is structurally different from regular quercetin with an additional hydrogen atom, which may enhance cellular absorption and metabolic efficiency in some preclinical models. The standardized extraction from Dahurian Larch in the Lavitol branded format is designed to optimize concentration and purity, though direct human bioavailability studies comparing it to other quercetin derivatives remain limited. Absorption factors such as dosage timing, food intake, and individual digestive variation likely influence the actual bioavailability in practice.

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