DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid)
Other names for DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid)
algal dha
calamarine dha omega-3 concentrate
canadian omega-3 dha
dha
dha concentrate
dha (docosahexaenoic acid)
dha onavita
dha powder
docasahexaenoic acid
doconexent
docosahexaenoic
docosahexaenoic acid
docosahexaenoic acid concentrate
docosahexaenoic acid ethyl ester
docosahexaenoic acid oil
docosahexaenoic acid omega-3 concentrate
docosahexaenoic acid, powder
docosahexaenoic acid triglyceride
docosahexanoic acid
esolv omega h2o dha powder
life\'s dha
life\'sdha
life’s dha
life\'sdha dha
life\'sdha oil
life\'s dha s40-0400
life\'sdha(tm)
life’sdha(tm)
life\'s dha(tm) dha
martek\'s dha oil
neuromins
omega-3 dha
omega-3 (dha) docosahexaenoic acid
omega-3 docosahexaenoic acid (form: algal oil)
onavita
Synopsis of DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid)
History
Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) is a long-chain omega-3 fatty acid that has been recognized for its vital role in human health for centuries, even before its scientific isolation. Traditionally, populations with diets rich in fatty fish—such as the Inuit and certain Mediterranean cultures—exhibited better cognitive development and lower incidences of cardiovascular disease, benefits now attributed in part to DHA. Although ancient healers may not have known the molecular identity of DHA, remedies involving fish oils and marine animal fats were commonly used to strengthen the body, boost mental acuity, and alleviate symptoms associated with inflammation and joint discomfort.
With advances in nutritional science, DHA has been isolated and identified as a crucial building block for brain, eye, and heart health. Its medicinal applications are extensive and well-supported: DHA supplementation is linked to improved cognitive function, enhanced visual development in infants, reduced risk of neurodegenerative diseases, and better cardiovascular health. Pregnant and breastfeeding women are often encouraged to consume DHA-rich foods or supplements to support fetal and infant brain development.
In modern herbal medicine, DHA is sometimes incorporated into herbal combinations to maximize health benefits. For example, it may be blended with plant oils like flaxseed or evening primrose oil, which provide other omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, creating synergistic effects for cognitive support, mood balance, and anti-inflammatory action. Its compatibility with herbal extracts such as ginkgo biloba or turmeric enhances their neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory properties. Overall, DHA’s remarkable contributions to mental and physical well-being make it a valued ingredient in both traditional remedies and contemporary herbal formulations.
Traditional and scientific validation
Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is a long-chain omega-3 fatty acid that has been recognized for its vital role in human health, particularly in brain and eye development. Historically, observations of populations consuming diets high in fatty fish—rich sources of DHA—have suggested potential health benefits, including improved cognitive function and reduced cardiovascular risk. This prompted scientific interest and subsequent research into DHA’s physiological effects.
Numerous clinical and epidemiological studies have investigated DHA supplementation in various populations. In infants, DHA is a critical component of neural and retinal tissues, and several randomized controlled trials have demonstrated that DHA-enriched formulas can support visual acuity and cognitive development compared to non-supplemented formulas. In adults, some studies have shown that DHA intake may contribute to maintaining normal brain function and could play a role in cardiovascular health by supporting normal blood lipid profiles.
Despite promising findings, the scientific community acknowledges that more research is required to fully understand the extent and mechanisms of DHA’s benefits in diverse populations and across different life stages. Not all studies have yielded consistent results, particularly regarding cognitive outcomes in older adults or the prevention of chronic diseases. However, the overall body of evidence supports DHA’s positive contributions to nutrition, especially during periods of rapid growth and development. As ongoing research continues to clarify its roles, DHA remains a valuable ingredient in nutritional products, reflecting both historical use and scientific interest in its potential health benefits.
DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid) is used for these health conditions
Alzheimer's Disease (Scientific)
Anxiety (Scientific)
Anxiety Disorders (Scientific)
Arthritis (Scientific)
Asthma (Scientific)
Autism (Scientific)
Bipolar Mood Disorder (Scientific)
Cancer (natural therapy for) (Scientific)
Cancer (prevention) (Scientific)
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects) (Scientific)
Cardiovascular Disease (Scientific)
Cholesterol (high) (Scientific)
Circulation (poor) (Scientific)
Congestive Heart Failure (Scientific)
Dementia (Scientific)
Depression (Scientific)
Diabetes (Scientific)
Inflammation (Scientific)
Inflammatory Bowel Disorders (Scientific)
Macular Degeneration (Scientific)
Memory and Brain Function (Scientific)
Migraine (Scientific)
Multiple Sclerosis (Scientific)
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (Scientific)
Pregnancy (herbs and supplements for) (Scientific)
Psoriasis (Scientific)
Rheumatoid Arthritis (Scientific)
Stress (Scientific)
Strokes (Scientific)
Triglycerides (high) (Scientific)
DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid) is used to support these body systems
Arteries (Scientific)
Blood (Scientific)
Brain (Scientific)
Circulatory System (Scientific)
Eyes (Scientific)
Female Reproductive System (Scientific)
Glandular System (Scientific)
Heart (Scientific)
Immune System (Scientific)
Mitochondria (Scientific)
Nerves (Scientific)
Reproductive System (Scientific)
Senses (Scientific)
Skin (Scientific)
