Cetylmyristoleate (cis-9-cetyl myristoleate, CMO)

Cetylmyristoleate (CMO) is the common name for cis-9-cetyl myristoleate, an antiinflammatory compound discovered in 1972 by Harry W Diehl, PhD, a researcher at the National Institutes of Health. It is a naturallyoccurring compound in a number of animals, including cows, whales, beavers, and mice.

Diehl’s research suggests that CMO lubricates joints and acts as an anti-inflammatory agent. In one study of people with various types of arthritis who did not respond to treatment with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs Diehl gave some 540 mg of CMO each day for 30 days, while the remainder received a placebo. Both group were told to apply topical CMO or placebo when needed.

Results showed that 63.5% of those receiving CMO improved significantly, compared with just 14.5% of the placebo group. US Patents were subsequently granted to Diehl for the use of CMO in the treatment of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

DEFICIENCY SYMPTOMS: Not applicable

CMO is available in both capsule and tablet form for oral use, and in creams and lotions for topical application. The general recommendation for oral CMO is 400 to 500 mg daily for 30 days. Topically it can be used if and when needed.

MAXIMUM SAFE LEVEL: Not established

SIDE EFFECTS/CONTRAINDICATIONS: None known