Phenylethylamine HCL, also known as PEA, is a supplement used for many different purposes. Among them are: increasing cognitive ability, improving mood, losing weight and improving concentration. It occurs naturally in mammals nervous system- and therefore also humans. It’s believed to work as a kind of neuromodulator. It’s an organic chemical compound from the group of amines, a natural monoamine neurotransmitter. In the human brain it causes the release of norepinephrine and dopamine - two very strong neurotransmitters related to alertness and attention. Phenylethylamine HCL is currently the most popular form of phenylethylamine that can be found on the supplements market.
PEA sources
Phenylethylamine HCL is found in chocolate. It’s also called the "love drug" because it’s released in the brain when we experience romantic love. It raises blood pressure and glucose in the body. Thanks to such activity we are more vigilant and are in better mood, we feel contentment. It’s common to classify Phenylethylamine HCL into the nootropic group along with monoamine oxidase inhibitors such as Hordenine.
PEA Actions
There are many different mechanisms of PEA action when it crosses the blood-brain barrier and enters the central nervous system. First of all, it helps with the release of b-endorphin, which is the opioid peptide responsible for the pleasure. It triggers states similar to falling in love by stimulating the production of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. What's more, it not only stimulates the production of dopamine, but also prevents the decrease of this substance, increasing its concentration as a result.
It’s also believed that PEA stimulates the secretion of acetylcholine - another powerful chemical secreted by our brain - and neurotransmitter. Acetylcholine plays an important role in thought processes such as remembering, learning, reminding, concentration, and even sensory perception.
PEA Benefits
One of the biggest benefits of using PEA supplements is that they can greatly improve the mood and make you feel good. They can be an essential support for people living under severe stress, anxiety and even people with depression. These effects are most probably associated with the release of b-endorphin and dopamine, a neurotransmitter responsible for the mood and drive. Phenylethylamine is a supplement quite often used as part of the treatment of depression and anxiety. It also increases blood pressure and blood glucose levels, thus increasing energy. It helps reduce the feeling of tiredness, often present in depression and anhedonia.
Phenylethylamine also has a nootropic effect, mainly due to its stimulating effect, as well as an increase in the secretion of the aforementioned acetylcholine. The high level of this neurotransmitter contributes to the improvement of memory. You can get the impression that you have better access to your memories. Many users have also noticed improved learning abilities and higher concentration as well as greater focus. Some people have improved sense perception - especially in the area of hearing and sight.
The release of such powerful substances in combination with high blood pressure and high glucose levels also speeds up metabolism. It can lead to accelerated fat burning in the body. The market currently has many weight loss products, in which PEA is one of the main active ingredients.
Dosage of PEA
The acceptable dose of PEA varies between 250 and 500 mg per day. A dose above 1000 mg is not recommended. New users are advised to use 100 mg per day at the very beginning and increase it as needed and after noting the effects of the supplement. It’s also worth taking breaks to ensure you don’t become addicted to the effects of PEA. It’s best to use this substance occasionally and not include it in daily supplementation.
When taken separately, PEA is quickly broken down by an enzyme called monoamine oxidase (MAO). The effects of its action are therefore short. By combining PEA with an MAO inhibitor (e.g. Hordenine) - the rapid metabolization of phenylethylamine is prevented. We can find information on the internet that Hordenine should be taken 20-30 minutes before PEA in order to achieve the best results. However, be careful with the dosage, because the combination can be potentially dangerous.
When should you not take PEA?
Combination with Hordenine in the above doses should not cause more serious side effects. However, combining with other MAO inhibitors (especially prescribed drugs, i.e. moclobemide) is definitely not recommended. As for those suffering from schizophrenia, they should also avoid this supplement due to the constant elevated level of dopamine in the brain.
PEA - conclusion
Phenylethylamine HCL is one of the most effective nootropics that raise mood and mental energy. It has a strong anxiolytic effect, improves focus and memory, and when used appropriately, it increases motivation and drive. Used irregularly or in short periods of time, PEA is considered a relatively safe substance that enhances cognitive functions.
