Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is an omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid found primarily in fish oil. Its use for psoriasis is justified by scientific rather than traditional evidence, though the strength of evidence is modest. Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease characterized by overactive immune responses and increased production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Omega-3 fatty acids like DHA have well-documented anti-inflammatory effects, which has led researchers to investigate their role in managing inflammatory conditions, including psoriasis.

Several small clinical studies and meta-analyses have looked at the effects of omega-3 supplementation (mainly EPA and DHA from fish oil) on psoriasis. Some studies have demonstrated modest improvements in disease severity, scaling, and erythema in patients treated with omega-3 supplements compared to placebo. The proposed mechanism involves DHA's ability to reduce production of inflammatory eicosanoids and cytokines, and to alter immune cell function.

However, the evidence is not robust: many studies have methodological limitations such as small sample sizes, short duration, or use of mixed omega-3s rather than DHA alone. A 2020 review in the Journal of Dermatological Treatment concluded that while there is some evidence supporting omega-3s in psoriasis, results are inconsistent and further high-quality trials are needed. DHA is not considered a first-line therapy but may be used as an adjunct to standard treatments. Overall, scientific evidence exists but is limited, justifying a moderate evidence rating.

More about DHA (docosahexaenoic acid)
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Other ingredients used for Psoriasis

Other health conditions supported by DHA (docosahexaenoic acid)

Products containing DHA (docosahexaenoic acid)

Nature's Sunshine Circulatory System
Nature's Sunshine Krill Oil (With Vitamin K2)
Nature's Sunshine Super Trio