PEA, or palmitoylethanolamide, is a naturally occurring fatty acid amide that has been gaining attention in the world of health and wellness for its potential benefits in managing various health conditions, including arthritis.
Arthritis is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide, causing pain, inflammation, and stiffness in the joints. While there are many treatment options available for arthritis, including medications, physical therapy, and surgery, some individuals are turning to PEA as a natural alternative to help manage their symptoms.
PEA works by targeting the body’s endocannabinoid system, a complex network of receptors that regulates pain, inflammation, and immune responses.1 By interacting with these receptors, PEA has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, making it a promising option for individuals looking for natural relief from arthritis pain as well as neuropathic pain.2–5
Several studies have shown the potential benefits of PEA in managing arthritis symptoms. In a study published in the Journal of Pain Research, researchers found that PEA supplementation significantly reduced pain and improved joint function in individuals with osteoarthritis.6
In addition to arthritis, PEA has also shown promise in managing other health conditions, including fibromyalgia, neuropathic pain, and inflammatory bowel disease.7–10 Its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties make it a versatile supplement for individuals looking to improve their overall health and well-being.
Clinical studies support that PEA demonstrates a good safety and tolerability profile. Taking PEA in conjunction with other pain control medications may reduce the dosage needed to control pain. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid taking PEA.
If you are considering supplementing with PEA to manage arthritis or other health conditions, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider before initiating any new treatment. They can help determine the appropriate dosage and monitor your progress to ensure the supplement is safe and effective.
In conclusion, PEA is a natural supplement that shows promise in managing arthritis and other health conditions. Its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties make it a valuable option for individuals looking for natural relief from pain and inflammation. If you are interested in trying PEA, consult a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate approach for your specific needs.
References
1. Wang Y, Duan X, Li Z, Pan Y, Deng J. Palmitoylethanolamide in the Treatment of Pain and Its Clinical Application Prospects. Drug Des Devel Ther. 2025;19. doi:10.2147/DDDT.S540327
2. Artukoglu BB, Beyer C, Zuloff-Shani A, Brener E, Bloch MH. Efficacy of palmitoylethanolamide for pain: A meta-analysis. Pain Physician. 2017;20(5).
3. Nobili S, Micheli L, Lucarini E, Toti A, Ghelardini C, Di Cesare Mannelli L. Ultramicronized N-palmitoylethanolamine associated with analgesics: Effects against persistent pain. Pharmacol Ther. 2024;258. doi:10.1016/j.pharmthera.2024.108649
4. Lang-Illievich K, Klivinyi C, Rumpold-Seitlinger G, Dorn C, Bornemann-Cimenti H. The Effect of Palmitoylethanolamide on Pain Intensity, Central and Peripheral Sensitization, and Pain Modulation in Healthy Volunteers—A Randomized, Double-Blinded, Placebo-Controlled Crossover Trial. Nutrients. 2022;14(19). doi:10.3390/nu14194084
5. Schweiger V, Schievano C, Martini A, et al. Extended Treatment with Micron-Size Oral Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) in Chronic Pain: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Nutrients. 2024;16(11). doi:10.3390/nu16111653
6. NCT05406726. Mechanisms of Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) to Alter Pain Sensitivity in Knee Osteoarthritis. https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05406726. Published online 2022.
7. Das A, Balakrishnan P. Mechanisms and clinical applications of palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) in the treatment of neuropathic pain. Inflammopharmacology. 2025;33(1). doi:10.1007/s10787-024-01623-8
8. Varrassi G, Rekatsina M, Leoni MLG, et al. A Decades-Long Journey of Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) for Chronic Neuropathic Pain Management: A Comprehensive Narrative Review. Pain Ther. 2025;14(1). doi:10.1007/s40122-024-00685-4
9. Pickering E, Steels EL, Steadman KJ, Rao A, Vitetta L. A randomized controlled trial assessing the safety and efficacy of palmitoylethanolamide for treating diabetic-related peripheral neuropathic pain. Inflammopharmacology. 2022;30(6). doi:10.1007/s10787-022-01033-8
10. Scuteri D, Guida F, Boccella S, et al. Effects of Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) on Nociceptive, Musculoskeletal and Neuropathic Pain: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Clinical Evidence. Pharmaceutics. 2022;14(8). doi:10.3390/pharmaceutics14081672
I am a Master’s prepared RN, National Board-Certified Health & Wellness Coach, Board-Certified Functional Wellness Coach, and Functional Diagnostic Nutrition Practitioner. I help people fix their chronic inflammation & pain with in-home lab testing, client assessments, personalized natural healing protocols, and online coaching to help them move from pain to peace so that they feel better, move better, and live better.