Is Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) The Ultimate Nootropic? [What the Science says...]
Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) is a unique nootropic that can help people with ADHD, anxiety disorders, and depression. It has also been shown to improve memory in animal studies.
In this article, I'll answer the following questions about PEA:
- What is it?
- What are some benefits of using PEA as a nootropic supplement?
- How does it work in terms of improving cognitive function and mental health issues?
- Do any studies exist on how effective this substance can be at boosting cognition or mood levels?
... And much more. So without further ado, let's just get straight into it, shall we?
What is Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA)?
Palmitoylethanolamide, or PEA, is made in the body naturally to alleviate pain and inflammation. Many plants and animals also synthesize PEA like:
- Soy lecithin
- Soybeans
- Egg yolk
- Peanuts
... and alfalfa are all high producers of PEA.
Since its discovery in the 1950s, scientists have been interested in PEA. It has potential as a pain reliever, but there is a lack of large-scale safety and efficacy data.
Nonetheless, PEA has also been found to have anti-inflammatory properties, which is why it's often used in supplements for people who are diagnosed with arthritis or other inflammatory conditions.
Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) has also been found to work on the cannabinoid receptors in the brain, which is why it has become increasingly popular in the biohacking-sphere.
The fact that Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) has been shown to work on the cannabinoid receptors, is the reason for its anxiolytic, antidepressant, and cognitive effects.
Palmitoylethanolamide's Mechanism of Action
PEA activates the energy-boosting, fat-burning, and anti-inflammatory PPAR alpha.
PEA inhibits pro-inflammatory genes and the synthesis of numerous inflammatory chemicals by activating this important protein.
PEA activates the bliss gene, FAAH, which degrades natural anandamide.
This results in increased amounts of soothing anandamide in your system, allowing you to relax and feel better.
It may also activate cannabinoid receptors (CB2 and CB1).
The palmitic acid in PEA might be the basis for its synthesis. The body's starting point for PEA production is saturated fatty acids.
It has also been claimed that consuming extra palmitic acid or other dietary fats will not boost PEA creation in the body. This is because your body only uses PEA when it is needed to relieve inflammation or pain, and its levels vary considerably throughout the day.
The most effective approach to get PEA's advantages is to use standardized supplements or PEA-rich meals, according to researchers.
Their idea remains in the realm of hypothesis at this time.
Benefits of Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA)
One study found that PEA can reduce chronic neuropathic pain by influencing neurotransmitter signaling.
This is mainly due to its anti-inflammatory properties, which help with managing inflammatory conditions like arthritis and other diseases.
It can also be used as a supplement for people who are dealing with symptoms of depression or anxiety.
PEA has also been shown to improve memory, learning, and brain processing in animals.
It may do this by increasing the release of dopamine from neurons involved in cognition-related processes like motivation and attentional control.
This is why it has become increasingly popular for people who take Nootropics and want to improve their focus and attention spans.
PEA's effects on these neural circuits resemble those of conventional ADHD medications.
PEA has also been shown to be effective in analgesic in rats.
It was found to work on the mu-opioid receptor, which is thought to be responsible for its painkilling effects.
At this time, there isn't enough research to determine whether it has similar effects in humans.
Many other benefits of Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) are just beginning to be discovered.
Let's take a closer look at each benefit below...
Pain Relief
Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) is an anti-inflammatory agent with analgesic effects.
It has been used in different types of pain management, including nerve and muscle aches.
This may be due to its ability to influence neurotransmitter signaling at the spinal level by activating descending inhibitory pathways that block the transmission of pain signals.
PEA also reduces chronic neuropathic pain by influencing neurotransmitter signaling.
It does this primarily through its anti-inflammatory properties, which are beneficial for managing inflammatory conditions like arthritis and other diseases.
Brain Health and Regeneration
Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) may even be able to promote the growth of new neurons.
It can do this by activating PPAR alpha, which is a protein that encourages cell differentiation and regeneration in different parts of your body.
This also makes it useful for people who want to improve their memory or reduce cognitive decline.
PEA has been shown to have a positive effect on cognitive abilities in animals with dementia-like symptoms from neurodegenerative disorders or brain injury.
This is thought to be due to its ability to improve memory, learning, and the processing of stimuli by increasing dopamine output from neurons involved in cognition-related processes like motivation and attentional control.
PEA's effect on these neural circuits is similar to the effects of conventional ADHD medications.
Hormone Regulation
Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) also regulates many hormones in your body.
It can do this by either increasing or decreasing the production of certain hormones, depending on what is needed for a given situation.
For example, it has been shown to reduce cortisol levels when they are elevated due to stress and fatigue.
This means that PEA may help improve sleep quality and provide energy to deal with stress.
On the other hand, it increases insulin production in diabetics who have hyperglycemia by reducing glucagon levels.
This makes PEA useful for people who are dealing with diabetes or hypoglycemia.
Symptoms of Depression And Anxiety
Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) has been studied for its mood-elevating effects in animals.
It works by neurotransmitter signaling to activate the release of serotonin, dopamine, and GABA.
The inhibition of these chemicals is thought to be responsible for feelings of depression or anxiety which makes PEA useful as a treatment for depression and anxiety.
One study found that PEA improved symptoms of depression in mice treated with electroconvulsive therapy (ECT).
This is why more research on Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) as an anti-depressant medication has been called for by many people who are dealing with depression.
Overall, Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) is a very promising nootropic compound that has many positive health benefits for improving quality of life.
Side Effects of Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA)
Some people have reported that they experience mild side effects when taking PEA supplements or consuming high-fat meals with lots of palmitic acids, like indigestion and nausea.
Other side effects include:
- Muscle twitches and cramps
- Drowsiness or fatigue
- Loss of appetite
These side effects might be due to PEA's ability to activate the energy-boosting PPAR alpha protein in the body, which may also be responsible for its anti-inflammatory effects.
If you want to minimize your risk of experiencing side effects, it's best to take PEA supplements that are standardized for their active ingredient and remember to consume electrolytes.
The best way to take Palmitoylethanolamide
Palmitoylethanolamide is a fatty acid derivative.
Because it takes some time for Palmitoylethanolamide to build up in our bodies, certain effects may not be apparent right away.
The pain-relieving benefits of PEA are the most time-sensitive of its effects.
However, don't be discouraged, since many individuals have had excellent results with PEA after supplementing it for 2-4 weeks.
This implies that if you want to get the most out of Palmitoylethanolamide, you must take it regularly.
When it comes to dosage, the standard dose for Palmitoylethanolamide is 400 mg-800mg, twice a day.
To maximize absorption, you should time your supplement intake with meals that contain dietary fats.
In Summary
Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) is a fatty acid derivative that has been studied for its mood-elevating effects in animals.
It works by neurotransmitter signaling to activate the release of serotonin, dopamine, and GABA.
The inhibition of these chemicals is thought to be responsible for feelings of depression or anxiety which makes PEA useful as a treatment for depression and anxiety.
Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) is best taken regularly and at a dose of 400-800 mg, twice per day.
Finally, remember to take PEA supplements with meals that contain dietary fats for maximum absorption.
FAQ
What is Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) used for?
Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) is an endocannabinoid that has been used for pain, neuropathic pain, fibromyalgia, multiple sclerosis (MS), carpal tunnel syndrome, respiratory tract infections, and several other ailments.
How long does it take for Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) to work?
Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) can take 3 months to work, but effects are typically apparent in 4 to 6 weeks if taken daily at 400-1600 mg.
Is Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) a cannabinoid?
Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) is an endocannabinoid, which means it is a brain-signaling molecule that activates the cannabinoid receptors which leads to various effects such as pain relief and anti-inflammatory effects.
Is Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) anti-inflammatory?
Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA), which is a kind of N-acylethanolamide and a lipid, has anti-inflammatory activity that can relieve pain.
Does Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) boost energy?
Palmitoylethanolamide enhances mitochondrial function by activating PPAR alpha, which increases the production of ATP.
What are the benefits of Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA)?
Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) has several health benefits including pain relief, anti-inflammatory effects, and mood elevation. It's also been shown to be an effective neuroprotectant that can prevent damage caused by strokes or seizures in animal models.
How does Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) work?
Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) works by activating cannabinoid receptors and inhibiting the release of neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and GABA.
What is a good Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) dosage?
The recommended dosage is 400-800 mg, twice per day.