About Cetyl Myristoleate

What is cetyl myristoleate?
Cetyl myristoleate is a unique esterified fatty acid with unique properties that have been shown to support joint health, function and mobility. Dr. Harry Diehl discovered its unique joint health properties while working at the National Health Institute of Arthritis and Metabolic and Digestive Diseases in the 1960s. He and his colleagues discovered that a particular family of mice had a biological compound that seemed to protect them against developing arthritis. This compound, it was discovered was Certyl Myristoleate. Cetyl myristoleate is derived from myristoleic acid, which occurs naturally in the African Kombo Nut (wild nutmeg), whale fat and beef tallow.

How does cetyl myristoleate work?
The precise mechanisms and metabolic pathways that apply to cetyl myristoleate in supporting and maintaining joint health are not fully known. Empirical data, however, has clearly demonstrated the positive role this powerful fatty acid can play in joint health for people and companion animals.

In her book CMO: Cetyl Myristoleate – A natural treatment for arthritis and other joint-related diseases' Rita Elkins says 'When CMO is taken in oral form, it is absorbed through the intestinal tract and migrates via the blood stream to joint receptor sites where it becomes attached. While the exact physiological mechanisms involved in CMO therapy are not fully understood, it appears that this compound actually alters the immune system response that triggers joint inflammation and causes pain and swelling. The presence of CMO within the affected joints seems to block the inflammatory response, resulting in a cessation of pain and a decrease in swelling'.

To find out more we recommend Rita Elkins' book CMO: Cetyl Myristoleate – A natural treatment for arthritis and other joint-related diseases' – see our recommended reading page.