Omega polyunsaturated fatty acids and parasitic infections: An overview

•The ω-3 and ω-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) are vital for mammalian cells.•The ω-PUFAs are components of natural products or extracts.•Both ω-3 and ω-6 PUFAs are mainly provided in fish oil pills.•Both ω-PUFAs can be served against several inflammatory and infectious diseases.•Studies on their use as adjuvants in parasitic diseases have not received considerable awareness. Omega-3 and omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids are synthesized from the essential fatty acids alpha-linolenic acid and linoleic acid, respectively. They are pivotal components of all mammalian cells and were found to be useful in prevention and treatment of a variety of health problems owing to their anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties. Omega-3 and omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids are further metabolized to anti-inflammatory mediators, such as lipoxins, resolvins, and protectins. Moreover, these polyunsaturated fatty acids were found to have in vivo and in vitro protective efficacies against some parasitic infections. Therefore, dietary intake of polyunsaturated fatty acids should be encouraged because of their considerable beneficial effects. [Display omitted]