Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) possesses analgesic, anti-inflammatory and neuro-protective effects.
Neuropathic pain or nerve pain affects nearly 1 in 10 Australians. Symptoms can include ‘shooting pain’, ‘burning’ or ‘pins and needles’ and can interfere with daily duties and sleep.
Current medical treatment options include opioids and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
What is PEA?
PEA is a natural, fat-soluble molecule produced in the body that helps with pain relief via the endocannabinoid system. It is found in a number of foods including cow’s milk, peanuts, soy bean, soy lecithin, beans, peas, tomato, alfalfa and corn.
PEA is produced in response to injury or inflammation. It binds to cells in the body to reduce pain and swelling.
The Research
Various clinical trials have demonstrated positive effects of PEA for chronic pain conditions.
Its efficacy has been demonstrated in conditions such as sciatic pain, carpal tunnel syndromes, low back pain, failed back surgery syndrome, osteoarthritis, fibromyalgia, chronic pelvic pain, post-herpetic neuralgia from shingles and peripheral neuropathy.
Dosage
The daily dosage of PEA in clinical trials has ranged from 300mg–1200mg daily, in divided dosage for chronic pain.
Clinical trial data would suggest that a loading dose of 600–1200mg for 3–4 weeks followed by a maintenance dose of 300–600mg may be the most appropriate dosing strategy for chronic pain conditions. Though this will vary on the condition being treated and the individual.
As PEA t is a fat-soluble compound, consumption with a fat-containing meal may enhance absorption.
It is also well-tolerated and has no known contraindications. Therefore it won’t interact with other medications.
If you’re suffering from chronic pain, PEA could be the solution you've been looking for.
Please get in touch, if you would like more information on pain management or book in for a consultation.
Jules x
References
Clayton, P., Hill, M., Bogoda, N., Subah, S., & Venkatesh, R. (2021). Palmitoylethanolamide: A Natural Compound for Health Management. International Journal Of Molecular Sciences, 22(10), 5305. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms22105305
Keppel Hesselink, J., & Hekker. (2012). Therapeutic utility of palmitoylethanolamide in the treatment of neuropathic pain associated with various pathological conditions: a case series. Journal Of Pain Research, 437. https://doi.org/10.2147/jpr.s32143
PEA is for pain | FX Medicine. Fxmedicine.com.au. (2022). Retrieved 1 July 2022, from https://www.fxmedicine.com.au/blog-post/pea-pain.
Casuarina Holistic Health is conveniently located on the Tweed Coast between Kingscliff and Cabarita Beach. Naturopathic appointments are available in the clinic or via zoom.