Palmitoylethanolamide
Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) is an endocannabinoid-like lipid mediator with anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antimicrobial, immunomodulatory, and neuroprotective effects. PEA is found naturally in foods such as egg yolks and peanuts and is well-tolerated by both animals and humans. PEA can bind to cells in the body and reduce pain and swelling.
The benefits of Palmitoylethanolamide include:
- Reducing pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis
- Reducing chronic pain from different causes
- Helping to manage neuropathic pain associated with various pathological conditions
One case study found that PEA was effective in reducing neuropathic pain in a patient with multiple sclerosis. Another case series found that PEA was effective in reducing neuropathic pain associated with various pathological conditions, including chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy, chronic low back pain, pelvic pain, and other conditions.
The recommended dosage of PEA is typically 300-1200 mg taken orally daily for 2-12 weeks in adults, and 600 mg taken orally daily for up to 3 months in children aged 4-17 years. It is also available in creams, lotions, and eye drops. PEA is usually well tolerated but might cause nausea in some people. The only side effects reported are related to a feeling of heaviness in the stomach after the tablets were taken and rarely diarrhea or memory loss.
Sources:
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24066256/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8157570/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34069940/
- https://accurateclinic.com/accurate-education-palmitoylethanolamide-pea/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3771453/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3500919/
