Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) is a naturally occurring fatty acid amide that has been studied for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. Its use in Inflammatory Bowel Disorders (IBD), such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, is primarily supported by preclinical and limited clinical research. Animal models of colitis have shown that PEA can reduce inflammation, decrease tissue damage, and modulate immune responses, likely through its effects on the endocannabinoid system and via peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-alpha (PPAR-α) activation. These mechanisms are relevant to the pathophysiology of IBD, which involves chronic intestinal inflammation and immune dysregulation.

A few small-scale human studies and case reports have suggested symptomatic improvement and reduced inflammation in patients with IBD who supplement with PEA. However, these studies are mostly preliminary, with limitations such as small sample size, short duration, and lack of rigorous controls. As of 2024, no large randomized controlled trials have definitively established PEA’s efficacy for IBD, and it is not part of mainstream clinical guidelines.

In summary, there is some scientific rationale and early evidence supporting the use of PEA in IBD, but the quality and quantity of clinical evidence are limited. It should be considered investigational, with a need for more robust clinical trials to confirm its safety and effectiveness in this context.