What is Cetyl Myristoleate?

Cetyl Myristoleate (CMO) is an ester of a fatty acid. Fatty acids are the building blocks of fats and oils just as amino acids are the components of protein. Science now recognizes the value of certain oils in reducing inflammation as well as blood cholesterol. When myristoleic acid is combined with a long chain alcohol molecule, cetyl alcohol, an ester of this fatty acid is created.

CMO functions in three ways. It is a super lubricant, a kind of "WD-40 for the joints". Muscles and other tissues also benefit from the lubricating effect which also helps to make them more pliable.

Second, CMO functions as an immune system modulator. This has been demonstrated by its effectiveness in autoimmune diseases, such as lupus and multiple sclerosis, as well as inflammatory conditions. Researchers are not sure how CMO performs in this role, but a possible explanation is that it helps to stimulate certain immune components such as immunoglobulins.  

The third function of CMO is its anti-inflammatory effect. The believed mechanism is regulation of prosta-glandins, short-acting local hormones involved in many processes of the body, including the inflammatory response.

Reported Results

Doctors report that patients are reporting decreased stiffness, increased range of motion, visible reduction of swelling, restored dexterity in finger joints and elimination of pain. Often, patients can discontinue pain medication and return to activities they could not perform prior to treatment.

Users describe other health benefits such as a positive effect on emphysema, hepatitis, hypertension, diabetes, eczema, psoriasis, colds, allergies, low back pain and headaches.

In a 1996 multi-center, one-month clinical study involving 431 patients with various forms of arthritis, significant improvements were found in 63.3% of those taking CMO. Established measurements criteria for arthritis were used in making the assessment.

In those taking CMO combined with glucosamine hydrochloride, sea-cucumber and hydrolyzed cartilage along with a topical preparation of CMO, an 87.3% improvement was achieved.

In comparison, only 14.5% of the placebo group showed improvement. If a new prescription drug produced these results or was only 50% effective it would make headlines in a matter of days.  

Like most products, CMO does not work 100% of the time. Best results are obtained when it is part of a comprehensive program which includes other appropriate nutritional supplements and dietary measures such as restriction of animal fat, sugar, alcohol, citrus juices and caffeine. And, since it is the job of the liver to manage fats in the body, liver detoxification can be highly beneficial.

The Protocol

Because CMO has a relatively long life in the body, it does not have to be taken for long periods or in high doses. For most people, all that is needed is a one or two month course, though results are often obtained within 2 weeks. Some individuals may eventually need to take smaller "refresher" doses. As powerful as CMO is, its effect can be enhanced by including other supplements with proven benefits. Glucosamine sulfate (GS), a component of cartilage, has been shown in clinical studies to stimulate production of cartilage constituents and is now considered an effective long-term nutritional treatment for arthritis. Omega 3 fish or flaxseed oils have therapeutic benefits in inflammatory and autoimmune diseases; and vitamin E and other anti-oxidants help to halt the downward spiral of cartilage degradation.

Is CMO Safe?

Thousands of people have taken CMO and there are no known adverse side effects. Occasionally, people experience burping as they sometimes do with fish oils. Until further studies can be done, pregnant or lactating women should not take CMO. People with asthma or a history of severe allergic reactions should only take CMO under medical supervision.