DHA (docosahexaeonic acid) (Docosahexaenoic Acid)

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Other names
Synopsis
Uses: Health Conditions
Uses: Body Systems
Products

Other names for DHA (docosahexaeonic acid)

Algal DHA
Fish Oil DHA
DHA Triglyceride Form
DHA Ethyl Ester
DHA
DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid)

Synopsis of DHA (docosahexaeonic acid)

DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) is a long-chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) essential for the development and maintenance of the brain, eyes, and nervous system. It is primarily found in cold-water fatty fish (like salmon, sardines, and mackerel), algae, and in smaller amounts in grass-fed animal products. DHA is one of the two most important marine omega-3s (alongside EPA—eicosapentaenoic acid), and is a critical structural component of cell membranes, especially in the retina and cerebral cortex.

DHA is known for:

Supporting brain development during pregnancy, infancy, and early childhood
Enhancing cognitive function and memory, particularly in aging adults
Promoting eye health, especially in the prevention of age-related macular degeneration (AMD)
Reducing inflammation and supporting neurological resilience
Supporting cardiovascular health, including lowering triglycerides and improving heart rate variability
Playing a role in mood regulation, potentially reducing symptoms of depression, anxiety, and postpartum mood disorders

In supplementation, DHA is typically sourced from fish oil or vegan algae oil, the latter being especially important for vegetarians, vegans, and pregnant individuals seeking mercury-free sources. It is commonly included in prenatal vitamins, brain health formulas, and eye support blends. Dosage typically ranges from 200–1000 mg daily, often paired with EPA for broader anti-inflammatory effects.

Historical Use
DHA as an isolated compound was identified and studied in the 20th century, so it does not have direct traditional or herbal use. However, the traditional diets that were naturally high in DHA—such as those of Indigenous Arctic communities, coastal Mediterranean populations, and Pacific Island cultures—have long been associated with exceptional cognitive, cardiovascular, and reproductive health.

For example:

The Inuit diet, rich in seal, whale, and cold-water fish, provided abundant DHA and EPA, correlating with low rates of heart disease and inflammatory disorders.
The Mediterranean diet, high in fish and olive oil, supported longevity and cognitive protection.
In Ayurveda, fish and marine oils were considered nourishing for ojas (vitality) and brain tissue (majja dhatu), although DHA itself was not identified.

Today, DHA is a cornerstone nutrient in clinical nutrition, neurology, pediatrics, and integrative medicine, especially in protocols for:

Pregnancy and lactation support
ADHD and neurodevelopmental disorders
Cognitive aging and neurodegenerative diseases
Chronic inflammation and eye health

DHA continues to be studied for its neuroprotective, cardioprotective, and anti-aging effects and is widely regarded as essential throughout the life cycle—from fetal development to elderly brain maintenance.

DHA (docosahexaeonic acid) is used for these health conditions

Alzheimer's Disease (Scientific)
Anxiety (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)
Circulation (to the brain) (Scientific)
Concentration (poor) (Scientific)
Concussions (Scientific)
Confusion (Scientific)
Congestive Heart Failure (Scientific)
Convulsions (Scientific)
Coordination (Scientific)
Dementia (Scientific)
Depression (Scientific)
Diabetes (Scientific)
Inflammation (Scientific)
Inflammatory Bowel Disorders (Scientific)
Macular Degeneration (Scientific)
Memory and Brain Function (Scientific)
Metabolic Syndrome (Scientific)
Migraine (Scientific)
Parkinson's Disease (Scientific)
Peripheral Neuropathy (Scientific)
Post Partum Depression (Scientific)
Pregnancy (herbs and supplements for) (Scientific)
Psoriasis (Scientific)
Rheumatoid Arthritis (Scientific)
Schizophrenia (Scientific)
Stress (Scientific)
Strokes (Scientific)
Triglycerides (high) (Scientific)

DHA (docosahexaeonic acid) is used to support these body systems

Arteries (Scientific)
Blood (Scientific)
Brain (Scientific)
Circulatory System (Scientific)
Eyes (Scientific)
Heart (Scientific)
Immune System (Scientific)
Nerves (Scientific)
Parasympathetic Nervous System (Scientific)
Prostaglandins (Scientific)
Reproductive System (Scientific)
Skin (Scientific)

Products containing DHA (docosahexaeonic acid)

Additional Help

Talk with Dr. Shannyn

Get to the root of what’s really going on.
Symptoms like fatigue, bloating, skin issues, or mood changes often point to deeper imbalances. Our at-home lab tests make it easy to investigate hormone health, gut function, food sensitivities, and more—no clinic visit required.

Schedule a Free Consult →
Personalized support. No pressure. No cost.

At-Home Lab Testing

Want to know if your body really needs this ingredient?
Explore our at-home lab tests—from hormone and gut panels to toxin screenings. These simple kits give you data to back your decisions, and pair perfectly with natural ingredient guidance.

Explore Lab Testing →
Results interpreted with expert support. No clinic visit required.

Health Concerns

Brands