The role of the compound Palmitoylethanolamide or PEA in acute and chronic pain occurrences among humans as well as in inflammation development is a primarily interesting subject in most health science studies in the modern days. The interest began following a conclusion that an alteration in Palmitoylethanolamide levels in the human body can result to inflammation, whether for long term or short term. Experts believe that by improving and regulating Palmitoylethanolamide or PEA levels through effective supplementation, inflammations brought about by various factors including those which are biological in nature can be controlled to certain levels. More intensive studies, however, are necessary to confirm Palmitoylethanolamide health claims.
What is Palmitoylethanolamide or PEA?
The compound Palmitoylethanolamide, or more popularly known as PEA in health supplement formulations, is a classic endocannabinoid which belongs to the group of nuclear factor agonists. Although intensive studies on the compound only began in the 1980’s, records show that it has been discovered in as early as the 1950’s. It is mostly recognized as a natural anti-inflammatory agent derived from various food sources such as peanuts, egg yolk and soybeans. Concentrated level of Palmitoylethanolamide is known to treat to a certain degree joint pains and inflammations as well as other inflammatory conditions not usually curable with ordinary anti-inflammatory drugs.
Health benefits of Palmitoylethanolamide supplementation
Health supplement formulations containing recommended doses of Palmitoylethanolamide are primarily useful among patients suffering from inflammatory conditions, especially those of the chronic forms. Some other health uses of Palmitoylethanolamide are the following:
- It works as an anti-nociceptive
While sensory function is a significant nervous system response, neuropathic pain among patients who have recently suffered from stroke and other conditions is probably the worst kind of pain which must be treated with anti-nociceptive medications. Studies show that Palmitoylethanolamide may contribute to sensory function control among patients suffering from severe pain disorders. It has been shown to provide therapeutic effects among individuals with multiple sclerosis, failed back surgeries and even cancer pains. It must, however, be included with some other compounds for bioavailability purposes.
- It may treat allergic reactions
Allergic reactions are also characterized as inflammatory responses of the immune system following exposure to certain allergens. In one study, it was concluded that Palmitoylethanolamide supplementation may help treat severe allergic reactions by controlling immune responses without paralyzing the entire immunity system. Reasonable doses of Palmitoylethanolamide may also be effective in controlling acute signs and symptoms of allergic reactions.
- It may protect brain cells
Another significant finding on Palmitoylethanolamide which has recently gained the attention of thousands of healthcare workers is the claim that it has potential neuroprotective properties. With studies confirming the claim, experts say that the treatment to elderly-associated conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease and Dementia is probably almost at hand.
Conclusion
New findings and confirmatory studies in relation with Palmitoylethanolamide are expected to be completed in the years to come. With Palmitoylethanolamide in health supplement formulations, chronic pain may no longer be a problem.
