The latest research shows that natural medicine could be the best place to look for new chronic pain treatments. Researchers recently discovered an intrinsic fatty acid, called PEA (Palmitoylethanolamide), that inhibits peripheral nerve inflammationtheorized as the first step in developing chronic pain.

Additionally, a little-known plant extract called honokiol improves GABA signaling in the brain, thus restoring a normalized perception of painan important step for chronic pain relief.

The newest approach to finding relief might include supplementing with PEA and honokiol. Life Extensions Michael A. Smith, MD, and Crystal Gossard, DCN, CNS, LDN, discuss chronic pain and readily available solutions that dont involve opioids in this episode of Live Foreverish.

Did you know that chronic pain is not only long-term, day-in-and-day-out pain, but a diagnosis in its own right?

Chronic pain is defined as persistent or recurrent pain lasting longer than 3 months.1 While acute pain is the temporary pain that is the result of numerous possible occurrences or conditions, chronic pain is something that many people live with 24 hours a day, often for years. It is a condition that involves more than the site of the initial insult to the body and includes changes that occur in the spinal cord and the brain.

Chronic pain is now recognized as a diagnosis that is separate from any disease or condition that may have initiated it. As an article published recently in the journal Postgraduate Medicine noted, Evidence supports the redefinition of chronic pain as a distinct disease entity, not simply a symptom of injury or illness.2

According to a recent review, If one views chronic pain as a single disease entity, then it is the most common and costly medical condition.3

Chronic pain symptoms

In addition to persistent, significant pain, people suffering from chronic pain unsurprisingly endure other symptoms, including a significant amount of stress which, in turn, can aggravate their pain.4 Depression, anxiety, insomnia, physical disability and even cognitive changes can also be experienced by those suffering from chronic pain.

Local anesthetic injections that can be administered by a physician are sometimes an option. There are also pain-relieving patches, balms, lotions and ointments that can be applied topically.

Natural therapies for chronic pain include acupuncture, spinal adjustments, exercise, physical therapy, meditation, massage and specific plant compounds.5

PEA and HonokiolExciting New Options for Pain Relief

How does PEA work?

Palmitoylethanolamide, which (fortunately) is referred to by its acronym PEA, is a fatty acid produced in the human body that also occurs in small amounts in egg yolk, milk, soy and other foods.6 Available clinical data support the ability of PEA to relieve discomfort.7 The compound targets the mast cells activated peripherally during the initial insult to the body that is the first step in the development of chronic pain, thereby reducing the release of inflammatory mediators. PEAs action against mast-cell driven localized inflammation is what makes it different from other compoundsnatural and otherwisethat have an anti-inflammatory action.6

PEA also targets the nuclear receptor peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-alpha (PPAR-alpha) to support a healthy level of inflammation. According to a recent review, Synergistic interactions among several mechanisms often seem necessary so that PEA can produce its important therapeutic effects, both in the central and the peripheral nervous system.6

Human studies have revealed benefits for the use of PEA for sciatic nerve pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) syndrome and migraine.8- 11 Doses used in these trials range from 300 milligrams to 1,200 milligrams.

The results of anatomical, biochemical, molecular and pharmacological studies support the notion that generalized activation of GABA receptor systems dampens the response to painful stimuli, write S. J. Enaa and K. E. McCarson in Advances in Pharmacology. The data leave little doubt that, under certain circumstances, stimulation of neuroanatomically discreet GABA receptor sites could be of benefit in the management of pain.13

Targeting the beginning and the end of the development of chronic pain is one way to break the pain cycle. Unlike NSAIDs, PEA and honokiol are safe on the stomach, and unlike opioid drugs, theyre nonaddictive.

Although chronic pain has frustrated patients and physicians alike, there are treatment options that dont involve the use of dangerous and addictive drugs. Do you or someone you care about suffer from chronic pain?

About Live Foreverish: Join Dr. Mike as he sits down with some of todays leading medical, health and wellness experts to discuss a variety of health-related topics. From whole-body health to anti-aging and disease prevention, youll get the latest information and advice to help you live your life to the fullest. If you like what you hear, please take a moment to give Live Foreverish a 5-star rating on iTunes!

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