17-Hydroxydocosahexaenoic Acid
Synopsis of 17-Hydroxydocosahexaenoic Acid
History
17-Hydroxydocosahexaenoic Acid (17-HDHA) is a bioactive lipid derived from docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), an omega-3 fatty acid prevalent in fish oils and marine sources. While the isolated compound’s direct historical use in traditional herbal remedies is limited due to its recent discovery through modern biochemical research, its parent compound, DHA, has a longstanding history in nutritional and medicinal applications. Across various cultures, fish oil and marine animal extracts rich in omega-3 fatty acids have been utilized to support brain health, enhance vision, and reduce inflammation.
Modern research has illuminated the unique benefits of 17-HDHA, particularly its role as a precursor to specialized pro-resolving mediators (SPMs), which help resolve inflammation and promote tissue healing. This has opened new avenues for its inclusion in nutritional products aimed at supporting immune health, joint flexibility, and overall wellness.
In the context of herbal combinations, 17-HDHA often complements other botanical and marine-based ingredients. When formulated with herbs like turmeric (curcumin), ginger, and green tea extract, products can harness synergistic anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, maximizing health benefits. Such combinations are especially valued in formulations targeting cognitive health, joint support, and cardiovascular function.
Overall, 17-HDHA exemplifies the evolution of traditional marine-based remedies into targeted, science-backed nutraceuticals. Its positive contributions to health—particularly in managing inflammation and supporting the body’s natural healing processes—highlight its potential as a valuable ingredient in both contemporary and integrative nutritional approaches.
Traditional and scientific validation
17-Hydroxydocosahexaenoic Acid (17-HDHA) is a bioactive lipid derived from docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), an omega-3 fatty acid widely recognized for its health benefits. Over recent years, scientific interest has grown in 17-HDHA due to its role as a specialized pro-resolving mediator (SPM), which contributes to the resolution of inflammation and supports tissue homeostasis. Historically, the consumption of DHA-rich foods has been associated with cognitive and cardiovascular health, prompting ongoing research into its metabolites like 17-HDHA.
Preclinical studies suggest that 17-HDHA exhibits anti-inflammatory properties by modulating immune cell activity and promoting the resolution phase of inflammation. For example, research conducted on animal models has demonstrated that 17-HDHA can reduce inflammatory responses in conditions such as arthritis and may play a role in neuroprotection. Furthermore, early laboratory investigations have shown that 17-HDHA can support B-cell differentiation and antibody production, indicating potential benefits for immune function.
While the foundational science is promising, human clinical trials specifically investigating 17-HDHA as an isolated ingredient remain limited. Most available data derive from studies on DHA supplementation or broader SPM activity rather than on 17-HDHA alone. As such, more comprehensive clinical research is needed to fully establish the efficacy and specific health benefits of 17-HDHA when used in nutritional products. Nevertheless, its emergence as a naturally occurring anti-inflammatory agent highlights a positive contribution to the evolving landscape of nutritional science, with the potential to enhance immune health and inflammation resolution in the future.
17-Hydroxydocosahexaenoic Acid is used for these health conditions
Alzheimer's Disease (Traditional)
Arthritis (Traditional)
Asthma (Traditional)
Cancer (natural therapy for) (Traditional)
Cardiovascular Disease (Traditional)
Cholesterol (high) (Traditional)
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder (Traditional)
Congestive Heart Failure (Traditional)
Depression (Traditional)
Diabetes (Traditional)
Fatigue (Traditional)
Free Radical Damage (Traditional)
Hypertension (Traditional)
Inflammation (Traditional)
Inflammatory Bowel Disorders (Traditional)
Memory and Brain Function (Traditional)
Metabolic Syndrome (Traditional)
Migraine (Traditional)
Multiple Sclerosis (Traditional)
Osteoporosis (Traditional)
Parkinson's Disease (Traditional)
Rheumatoid Arthritis (Traditional)
Stress (Traditional)
Triglycerides (high) (Traditional)