Mobility/Inflammation/Beauty

Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA)

Fatty acid amide that modulates mast cells and receptors to reduce chronic neuropathic pain and skin inflammation.

score

evidence

Safe

risk

Our methodology: How we evaluate supplements and turn the underlying research into a single rating.

Read full methodology

Overview

Forms

Safety

Stack

Quick Take

Worth considering for chronic nerve or joint pain; evidence is promising but studies are mostly small.

PEA is a naturally occurring fatty acid amide found in trace amounts in egg yolks and soy lecithin, and produced on-demand in cell membranes during inflammation and pain. It primarily activates the nuclear receptor PPAR-α and modulates mast cell degranulation, dampening neuroinflammation and pain sensitization. Clinical trials show reduced chronic neuropathic pain (sciatica, carpal tunnel), modest lowering of inflammatory markers, and some improvement in atopic dermatitis symptoms.

Potential benefits

Reduces chronic neuropathic pain

May lower inflammatory markers

May improve atopic dermatitis sympt

Protocol

Amount

600 mg

Frequency

Twice daily for 3-4 weeks, then once daily

When

With or after meals to minimize mild stomach discomfort; consistency matters more than specific timing.

Onset Time

4-8 weeks for pain relief; up to 12 weeks for skin benefits.

Who Should Consider

Adults with chronic neuropathic pain

People with carpal tunnel or sciatica

Those with atopic dermatitis

Individuals with treatment-resistant OA pain

Food Sources

Egg yolks (~0.3 mg per yolk, clinically negligible)
Soy lecithin and soybeans (trace amounts)
Peanuts and alfalfa (very small quantities)

How It Works

PEA binds to the nuclear receptor PPAR-α, switching off pro-inflammatory gene transcription and mast cell activation. It also indirectly enhances endocannabinoid tone by reducing anandamide breakdown, calming hyperexcitable pain pathways without psychoactive effects.

Updated 5/19/2026