EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) (eicosapentaenoic acid)
Synopsis of EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid)
EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) is a 20-carbon omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) found primarily in marine sources, such as fatty cold-water fish (salmon, sardines, mackerel, anchovies) and algae. It plays a central role in modulating inflammation, supporting cardiovascular health, and maintaining mental and emotional well-being.
EPA is one of the three most important dietary omega-3s—alongside DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and ALA (alpha-linolenic acid). EPA cannot be produced in sufficient quantities by the body and must be obtained from the diet or supplements.
EPA’s primary functions and benefits include:
- Anti-inflammatory regulation: EPA is a precursor to resolvins and prostaglandins, which help reduce chronic inflammation and support tissue healing
- Cardiovascular health: It can lower triglycerides, reduce blood clotting, improve endothelial function, and support healthy blood pressure
- Mental and emotional health: Studies link EPA to improved outcomes in depression, anxiety, and mood stability, especially when used in higher EPA-to-DHA ratios
- Joint health: Its anti-inflammatory action makes it useful for rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory joint pain
- Skin health: EPA may reduce symptoms in eczema, psoriasis, and acne by balancing inflammatory responses
- Cellular and immune support: Helps stabilize cell membranes and regulate immune activity
EPA is typically consumed in the form of fish oil, krill oil, or algal oil supplements, with therapeutic dosages ranging from 500 mg to 2,000 mg/day, depending on the condition and individual needs.
Historical Use
Although EPA was not isolated and understood until the 20th century, its marine sources—especially fatty fish—have been consumed for thousands of years in traditional diets known for supporting longevity, brain function, and heart health.
Examples include:
- Indigenous Arctic diets, high in seal, whale, and fish, which naturally provided high EPA and DHA levels and were linked to low rates of cardiovascular disease and chronic inflammation
- Mediterranean diets, rich in sardines, anchovies, and olive oil, associated with reduced incidence of heart disease and cognitive decline
- In Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine, while fish oils weren’t specifically identified, the consumption of oily fish and sea-based nutrients was recommended for strength, fertility, and mental clarity
Today, EPA is a core component of integrative and functional medicine protocols, especially in:
- Chronic inflammation and autoimmune disease
- Mental health and cognitive support
- Heart disease prevention and lipid management
- Prenatal and postnatal health, particularly when balanced with DHA
It is also increasingly featured in clinical-grade omega-3 formulas, often in triglyceride or ethyl ester forms for improved absorption and bioavailability.
EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) is used for these health conditions
Alzheimer's Disease (Scientific)
Angina (Scientific)
Arrhythmia (Scientific)
Arteriosclerosis (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)
Congestive Heart Failure (Scientific)
Depression (Scientific)
Diabetes (Scientific)
Dysmenorrhea (Scientific)
Endometriosis (Scientific)
Fatty Liver Disease (Scientific)
Hypertension (Scientific)
Inflammation (Scientific)
Inflammatory Bowel Disorders (Scientific)
Lupus (Scientific)
Memory and Brain Function (Scientific)
Migraine (Scientific)
Osteoporosis (Scientific)
Parkinson's Disease (Scientific)
Peripheral Neuropathy (Scientific)
PMS (general) (Scientific)
Psoriasis (Scientific)
Rheumatoid Arthritis (Scientific)
Stress (Scientific)
Strokes (Scientific)
Triglycerides (high) (Scientific)
Wounds and Sores (Scientific)
EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) is used to support these body systems
Arteries (Scientific)
Blood (Scientific)
Brain (Scientific)
Circulatory System (Scientific)
Eyes (Scientific)
Heart (Scientific)
Immune System (Scientific)
Intestinal System (Scientific)
Joints (Scientific)
Liver (Scientific)
Lungs (Scientific)
Prostaglandins (Scientific)
Reproductive System (Scientific)
Respiratory System (Scientific)
Skin (Scientific)
