Linux is beloved by many around the world for its simplicity and ultimate customization Because it’s open source (and free!) many Mac users choose to run it as a virtual machine on VMWare, Parallels, or even Virtual Box. However, sometimes you might want to run a Linux-based application without having to jump through too many hoops. Using a SSH tool called X over SSH2, you can graphically load remote Linux apps and use them right on your Mac.

What You’ll Need:

>> Linux computer or virtual machine on a Mac
>> Apple X11 (Download Here)

Full article here:
How to Run Linux Applications On Your Mac (MacLife)