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Review Article - Journal of Pharmaceutical Chemistry & Chemical Science (2022) Volume 6, Issue 1
Palmitoylethanolamide; An organic and cannabimimetic compound with pleiotrophic effects: A review.
Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) is a compound that the body produces naturally to combat pain and inflammation. Dietary supplementation is a valid strategy to reduce the risk and severity of such disorders. PEA contains palmitic acid in its structure. The starting point for making PEA in the body is precisely this saturated fatty acid. Many animals and plants also produce PEA. The highest amounts can be found in soy lecithin, soybeans, egg yolk, peanuts, and alfalfa. As a supplement, PEA’s co-micronized and ultra-pure forms are available and some co-mixed with luteolin and polydatin to enhance its effect. Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) is an endocannabinoid-like lipid mediator with extensively documented anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antimicrobial, and immunomodulatory and neuroprotective effects. It is well tolerated and devoid of side effects. PEA's actions on multiple molecular targets while modulating multiple inflammatory mediators provide therapeutic benefits in many applications, including immunity, brain health, allergy, pain modulation, joint health, sleep, soul and recovery. PEA's poor oral bioavailability has been overcome by advanced delivery systems. PEA is a fatty acid amid like anandamide. Unlike regular fats, amide-containing fatty acids like PEA and the cannabinoids are directly involved in nerve communication. These molecules are called “neuroactive lipids”. PEA activates the energy-boosting, fat-burning, and anti-inflammatory PPAR alpha. By activating this key protein, PEA stops the activity of pro-inflammatory genes and the production of many inflammatory substances. PEA reduces the activity of the gene FAAH that breaks down natural cannabinoid anandamide. This increases the levels of anandamide in the body, helping to combat pain and increase relaxation. It may also activate cannabinoid receptors CB2 and CB1. A combination of PEA, high CBD, low THC, Terpenes, Luteolin and Polydatin along with some selected antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds might bring promising avenues in health and wellbeing.
Author(s): Erhan Yarar*