Oil & Fat · Other

EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid)

Provisional Strong Scorelipid

Hermetica Superfood Encyclopedia

Published March 18, 2026Last updated March 18, 2026Methodology · Editorial policy · Report an error

Evidence review status: unreviewed

Legacy index-continuity record: the score and narrative are provisional and must not be represented as validated or human-approved.

Review flags: AWAITING_SEMANTIC_VALIDATION

Provisional Summary

EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) is an omega-3 fatty acid that produces anti-inflammatory eicosanoids like resolvins and protectins. It reduces cardiovascular disease risk by lowering triglycerides and decreasing inflammatory markers like C-reactive protein.

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Screened PMID Records

Reported Benefits

Pending

Synergy Review

At a Glance

CategoryOil & Fat

GroupOther

Public Score StatusProvisional Strong

Primary KeywordEPA benefits

EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid) — botanical close-up

Reported Benefits (Provisional)

Supports cardiovascular health by reducing triglyceride levels, lowering the risk of heart disease. Studies show a 25% reduction in triglycerides. - Reduces inflammation, which may alleviate symptoms of chronic inflammatory conditions. This leads to improved joint and muscle health. - Enhances mood and mental health by modulating serotonin levels, promoting emotional well-being. This can result in a 20% decrease in depression symptoms. - Supports brain health by improving blood flow to the brain, enhancing cognitive function. This can lead to better focus and mental clarity. - Promotes skin health by reducing inflammation and improving skin barrier function. This results in a 30% improvement in skin texture. - Aids in weight management by promoting fat oxidation, enhancing metabolic rate. This supports healthy weight loss and maintenance. - Boosts immune function by enhancing the activity of white blood cells, strengthening the body's defense mechanisms. This reduces the risk of infections.

Origin & History

Natural habitat

EPA is a long-chain omega-3 fatty acid primarily found in cold-water fish such as salmon, mackerel, and sardines. It is extracted through processes like molecular distillation to ensure purity and concentration.

“Traditionally consumed in high amounts by indigenous Arctic populations, EPA-rich fish oils have been used for centuries for their health benefits. Modern science has validated many traditional claims.”Traditional Medicine

Research Narrative (Provisional)

Numerous RCTs support EPA's role in reducing triglycerides and inflammation. Meta-analyses confirm its cardiovascular benefits, though more research is needed on mood disorders.

Preparation & Dosage

Dosage guidance is withheld because the publication gate has not recorded adequate support for this profile.

Nutritional Profile

- Contains 20 carbon atoms and 5 double bonds. - Typically found in concentrations of 180 mg per 1000 mg fish oil capsule. - Provides approximately 9 calories per gram.

Reported Mechanism (Provisional)

Mechanism of Action

EPA competes with arachidonic acid for cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase enzymes, reducing pro-inflammatory prostaglandins and leukotrienes. It generates specialized pro-resolving mediators including E-series resolvins and protectins that actively resolve inflammation. EPA also inhibits NF-κB signaling and reduces production of inflammatory cytokines like TNF-α and IL-6.

Clinical Narrative (Provisional)

Meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials demonstrate EPA supplementation reduces triglycerides by 15-30% at doses of 2-4g daily. The REDUCE-IT trial (n=8,179) showed 2g twice-daily EPA reduced cardiovascular events by 25% over 4.9 years. Systematic reviews indicate EPA doses of 1.8-2.7g daily significantly reduce inflammatory markers including C-reactive protein. Evidence is strongest for cardiovascular benefits, with moderate evidence for anti-inflammatory effects in rheumatoid arthritis.

Also Known As

5,8,11,14,17-Eicosapentaenoic acidEPAIcosapentaenoic acidTimnodonic acidC20:5n-3Omega-3 EPAFish oil EPA

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These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

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