Relationship: Parasympathetic Nervous System and DHA (docosahexaeonic acid)

Evidence supporting the use of: DHA (docosahexaeonic acid)
For the body system: Parasympathetic Nervous System

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Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid) and the Parasympathetic Nervous System: Evidence Overview

DHA, an omega-3 fatty acid found abundantly in fish oils and marine algae, is well-documented for its critical role in brain development and function. While no direct, robust clinical trials specifically target DHA’s effect on the parasympathetic nervous system (PNS) alone, there is scientific evidence supporting its broader influence on autonomic nervous system balance, which includes parasympathetic activity.

Research shows DHA is integral to neuronal membrane fluidity and synaptic function, which are essential for neurotransmission and overall nervous system health. Several studies have linked higher omega-3 intake, including DHA, to improved heart rate variability (HRV)—a reliable marker of increased parasympathetic (vagal) activity. For example, a 2014 systematic review (Frontiers in Physiology) concluded that omega-3 supplementation can enhance HRV, implying a potential upregulation of parasympathetic tone. Animal studies also suggest DHA may modulate acetylcholine release, the primary neurotransmitter of the PNS.

However, most evidence is indirect, with the majority of clinical research focused on cardiovascular and cognitive outcomes rather than direct measures of PNS function. Therefore, while there is scientific plausibility and moderate validation that DHA supports the parasympathetic nervous system by promoting autonomic balance and neuronal health, the evidence is not yet considered strong or highly specific for the PNS alone.

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Other ingredients that support Parasympathetic Nervous System

ashwagandha
waterhyssop
basil
bergamot
beta caryophyllene
bасора
California poppy
chamomile
choline
citrus oil
citrus sinensis (proprietary)
cowage seed
DHA (docosahexaeonic acid)
fava bean
GABA (gamma aminobutyric acid)
gardenia
ginseng
guayusa
hops
huperzine A
jujube
kava root
kudzu
l-glycine
l-taurine
l-theanine
lactium casein decapeptide
lavender
lion's mane
magnesium
magnolia
motherwort
passionflower
phytocannabinoids
relora® (proprietary)
sceletium
skullcap
valerian root
vitamin B
jiaogulan
catnip
gastrodia
cardamom
lingusticum wallichii
lemongrass
chrysanthemum
haliotis
dioscorea
lotus seed
electrolytes blend (proprietary)
biota seed
herbal blend (proprietary)
cocoa
7,8-Dihydroxyflavone
Apigenin
Acetylcholine
Bacopin
Brahmi
Bacopa
bacoside
Calea zacatechichi
Capitate Valerian
Convolvulus prostratus
Convolvulus Pluricaulis

Other body systems supported by DHA (docosahexaeonic acid)

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

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Evidence supporting the use of: DHA (docosahexaeonic acid)
For the body system: Parasympathetic Nervous System

Table of Contents

Synopsis

DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid) and the Parasympathetic Nervous System: Evidence Overview

Other ingredients that support Parasympathetic Nervous System

Other body systems supported by DHA (docosahexaeonic acid)

Products containing DHA (docosahexaeonic acid)

Health Concerns

Brands

Evidence supporting the use of: DHA (docosahexaeonic acid)For the body system: Parasympathetic Nervous System

Table of Contents

Synopsis

DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid) and the Parasympathetic Nervous System: Evidence Overview

Other ingredients that support Parasympathetic Nervous System

Other body systems supported by DHA (docosahexaeonic acid)

Products containing DHA (docosahexaeonic acid)

Evidence supporting the use of: DHA (docosahexaeonic acid)
For the body system: Parasympathetic Nervous System