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Arachidonic acid (AA) is the omega-6 fatty acid that serves as the direct precursor for pro-inflammatory prostaglandins, leukotrienes, and thromboxanes — the molecules that amplify pain, fever, and allergic reactions. Moderate levels of arachidonic acid are essential for normal immune function and tissue repair; chronically elevated AA, particularly relative to EPA (the anti-inflammatory omega-3), promotes systemic inflammation and cardiovascular risk. The arachidonic acid-to-EPA ratio is a more clinically actionable metric than either value in isolation.
Also known as: Arachidonate
High arachidonic acid drives pro-inflammatory prostaglandins and thromboxanes. Low AA can impair immune function and wound healing.
Optimal arachidonic acid is best interpreted as the AA:EPA ratio. An AA:EPA ratio below 3:1 is anti-inflammatory; most Western populations run 10:1 to 20:1.