Narrow Your Choices
CETYL MYRISTOLEATE
What does it do? Cetyl myristoleate (CMO) is the common name for cis-9-cetyl myristoleate. CMO was discovered in 1972 by Harry W. Diehl, Ph.D., a researcher at the National Institutes of Health. At the time, Dr. Diehl was responsible for testing anti-inflammatory drugs on lab animals. In order for him to test the drugs, he first had to artificially induce arthritis in the animals by injecting a heat-killed bacterium called Freund’s adjuvant. Dr. Diehl discovered that Swiss albino mice did not get arthritis after injection of Freund’s adjuvant. Eventually, he was able to determine that cetyl myristoleate was the factor present naturally in mice that was responsible for this protection. When CMO was injected into various strains of rats, it offered the same protection against arthritis.1 It has been proposed that CMO acts as a joint “lubricant” and anti-inflammatory agent. Patents were granted to Dr. Diehl for the use of CMO in both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, based upon the animal studies and several case histories.2 3 4 In a double-blind study, 106 people with various types of arthritis who had failed to respond to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs received cetyl myristoleate (540 mg per day orally for 30 days), while 226 others received a placebo. These people also applied cetyl myristoleate or placebo topically, according to their perceived need. Some 63.5% of those receiving cetyl myristoleate improved, compared with only 14.5% of those receiving the placebo (a statistically significant difference).5
Where is it found? Cetyl myristoleate is found in certain animals, including cows, whales, beavers, and mice. As a nutritional supplement it is found in a highly purified, refined form in capsules and tablets. CMO is also available in creams and lotions for topical application.
CMO has been used in connection with the following conditions (refer to the individual health concern for complete information):
| Rating | Health Concerns |
|---|---|
 |
Osteoarthritis Rheumatoid arthritis |
 Reliable
and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit. Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies
suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit. An herb is primarily supported by traditional use, or
the herb or supplement has little scientific support and/or minimal health benefit. |
|
Who is likely to be deficient? As cetyl myristoleate is not an essential nutrient, no deficiency state exists.
How much is usually taken? Generally, CMO is taken in the amount of 400 to 500 mg daily for 30 days.
Are there any side effects or interactions? No side effects or drug interactions have been reported.
References:
1. Diehl HW, May EL. Cetyl myristoleate isolated from Swiss albino mice: an apparent protective agent against adjuvant arthritis in rats. J Pharm Sci 1994;83:296–9.
2. Diehl HW. Method for the treatment of osteoarthritis. U.S. Patent #5,569,676.
3. Diehl HW. Method of treating rheumatoid arthritis. U.S. Patent #4,113,881.
4. Diehl HW. Cetyl myristoleate. U.S. Patent #4,049,824.
5. Siemandi H. The effect of cis-9-cetyl myristoleate (CMO) and adjunctive therapy on arthritis and auto-immune disease: a randomized trial. Townsend Letter for Doctors and Patients 1997;(Aug/Sept):58–63.
Your Recent History
|
|
|
|
|
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
Call us M-F 9am-5pm: 212-279-0552
Information on this site is provided for informational purposes and is not meant to substitute for the advice provided by your own physician or other medical professional. You should not use the information contained herein for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing any medication. Information about each product is taken from the labels of the products or from the manufacturer's advertising material. MotherNature is not responsible for any statements or claims that various manufacturers make about their products. We cannot be held responsible for typographical errors or product formulation changes. You should read carefully all product packaging. If you have or suspect that you have a medical problem, promptly contact your health care provider. Information and statements regarding dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.All discounts are taken from suggested retail prices. Prices are subject to change.
Please see our Terms of Use
Copyright © 1995-2012 MotherNature All rights reserved.