What are the health benefits of palmitoylethanolamide (PEA), and is it safe?

Answer:

Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) is produced in all tissues of the body, as needed, in response to cellular injury. It is also found in foods, but only in tiny amounts that are much lower than the 300 mg to 1,200 mg typical daily dosage (Gugliandolo, Vet Sci 2020; Gunawan, J Phys Conf Ser 2019).

Laboratory studies have shown that PEA can activate a certain cell receptor that promotes anti-inflammatory effects. PEA can also activate and then desensitize a cellular channel called transient receptor potential vanilloid 1, resulting in a pain-relieving effect (Clayton, Int J Mol Sci 2021; Rankin, Int J Mol Sci 2020).

Based on these effects, PEA is promoted for treating conditions marked by pain and inflammation, including osteoarthritis and other joint pain (in people and pets), peripheral neuropathy, multiple sclerosis (MS), low back pain/sciatica, glaucoma, menstrual pain, and restless legs syndrome (RLS) pain, as well as seasonal allergies, respiratory tract infections, post-COVID olfactory impairment, and conditions linked with brain and spinal cord inflammation, including Parkinson's disease, migraines, mood disorders, and tinnitus.

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