What Are the Benefits of Cetyl Myristoleate?

Cetyl myristoleate is a type of fat called fatty acids, which are necessary for healthy skin, blood and arteries and nerves. Cetyl myristoleate is sometimes used as a dietary supplement.

Function

• Cetyl myristoleate is taken to help lubricate joints and muscles, reduce inflammation, boost the immune system and help fight infections.

Uses

• The most common use for cetyl myristoleate is to relieve the pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis, and there is scientific evidence to prove the effectiveness of the supplement for this use. Other uses for cetyl myristoleate include the treatment of lupus, multiple sclerosis, psoriasis, leukemia, emphysema and fibromyalgia, but there is not enough research to indicate whether the fatty acid is effective for any of these conditions.

Expert Insight

• A study conducted at the University of Connecticut in 2004 found that patients who applied a topical cetyl myristoleate cream twice a day for 30 days experienced a reduction in osteoarthritis symptoms. Benefits of the cetyl myristoleate cream included greater ease climbing stairs, improved balance and less difficulty rising from a sitting to a standing position.

Warning

• A study at the Baylor College of Medicine found that approximately 51 percent of websites that contained information about cetyl myristoleate and other supplements used for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis were produced by commercial or for-profit companies and had the potential to contain misleading information about its benefits.

Considerations

• If you have a history of liver disease or are pregnant or nursing, it may not be safe for you to take cetyl myristoleate.