14-Hydroxydocosahexaenoic Acid
Synopsis of 14-Hydroxydocosahexaenoic Acid
History
14-Hydroxydocosahexaenoic acid (14-HDHA) is a bioactive lipid derived from docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), an omega-3 fatty acid prevalent in fish oils and marine sources. While 14-HDHA itself is a relatively recent discovery in the field of lipid mediators, its parent compound, DHA, has a long-standing historical reputation for supporting health, particularly in traditional remedies aimed at promoting brain, eye, and cardiovascular function. Across various cultures, fish oil and algae—the primary sources of DHA—have been prized for their restorative and anti-inflammatory properties.
Modern research has illuminated 14-HDHA’s role as a precursor for specialized pro-resolving mediators (SPMs), which help resolve inflammation without suppressing the immune system. This positions 14-HDHA as a valuable contributor to holistic wellness, helping the body maintain balance during inflammatory responses. Although direct historical documentation of isolated 14-HDHA use is limited, its significance is tied to the long-standing therapeutic use of DHA-rich remedies in herbal medicine and nutritional traditions.
In herbal combinations, 14-HDHA, through its DHA origin, is often complemented by botanicals such as turmeric, ginger, and green tea—herbs known for their synergistic anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Modern nutritional formulations may blend DHA-rich oils (and thus 14-HDHA) with these herbs to enhance overall efficacy in supporting cognitive health, joint comfort, and cardiovascular wellness. Overall, 14-HDHA represents a promising bridge between ancient wisdom and modern science, contributing positively to the evolution of natural health solutions.
Traditional and scientific validation
14-Hydroxydocosahexaenoic acid (14-HDHA) is a bioactive lipid derived from the omega-3 fatty acid docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which is abundant in fish oils and known for its role in supporting brain and cardiovascular health. 14-HDHA has garnered scientific interest due to its potential anti-inflammatory and pro-resolving properties. Emerging research suggests that 14-HDHA may play a role in the resolution of inflammation, a critical process in maintaining cellular homeostasis and tissue health.
Preclinical studies have indicated that 14-HDHA can serve as a precursor to specialized pro-resolving mediators (SPMs) such as maresins, which help regulate the immune response and promote tissue repair. In animal models, administration of 14-HDHA or related SPMs has been associated with reduced inflammation and improved outcomes in conditions such as colitis, cardiovascular disease, and neurodegenerative disorders. While these results are promising, clinical studies in humans remain limited.
Historically, omega-3 fatty acids like DHA have been widely used in nutritional supplements, with substantial evidence supporting their health benefits. The identification of 14-HDHA as a bioactive derivative has expanded the understanding of how omega-3s contribute to health at the molecular level. Although direct clinical evidence for 14-HDHA supplementation is still emerging, its presence in nutritional products reflects its potential to support the body’s natural inflammation-resolving pathways. Continued research is necessary to fully elucidate its effects in humans, but current findings highlight 14-HDHA’s promising role as a novel component in nutritional science.
14-Hydroxydocosahexaenoic Acid is used for these health conditions
Alzheimer's Disease (Traditional)
Arthritis (Traditional)
Asthma (Traditional)
Cancer (natural therapy for) (Traditional)
Cancer (prevention) (Traditional)
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects) (Traditional)
Cardiovascular Disease (Traditional)
Cholesterol (high) (Traditional)
Circulation (poor) (Traditional)
Cirrhosis of the Liver (Traditional)
Colitis (Traditional)
Congestive Heart Failure (Traditional)
Depression (Traditional)
Diabetes (Traditional)
Fatigue (Traditional)
Fatty Liver Disease (Traditional)
Free Radical Damage (Traditional)
Hypertension (Traditional)
Inflammation (Traditional)
Inflammatory Bowel Disorders (Traditional)
Liver Detoxification (Traditional)
Memory and Brain Function (Traditional)
Metabolic Syndrome (Traditional)
Migraine (Traditional)
Multiple Sclerosis (Traditional)
Parkinson's Disease (Traditional)
Rheumatoid Arthritis (Traditional)
Stress (Traditional)
Triglycerides (high) (Traditional)