Palmitoylethanolamide, also known as PEA, is a naturally occurring fatty acid compound found in plants and animals. PEA has natural anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and analgesic (pain-killing) properties. PEA works by supporting the healthy function of glial (nerve) and mast (immune) cells in the body. We are still learning the totality of the benefits of PEA, but research has indicated it may be beneficial for:
- Nerve pain in common conditions such as arthritis, Caudal Occipital Malformation Syndrome (COMS), and Syringomyelia (SM).
- Cystitis and chronic urinary tract disease.
- Osteoarthritis pain, neuropathic pain, dental pain, orthopedic pain.
- Allergies (reduces itching and skin lesions).
- Mast cell tumors.
- Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.
PEA does not directly block pain signals the way opioids and analgesics do. Instead, PEA is a part of our natural signaling system, and is not an NSAID, opioid, or steroid.