Where Cetyl Myristoleate (CMO) Comes From

Cetyl myristoleate (CMO) is a specialized fatty acid ester. It is found naturally occuring in very small quantities in animals and plants. Our fatty acids are derived from beef tallow-based sources. Our compounds are created by combining cetyl alcohol with specific naturally ocurring fatty acids in a manufacturing process called esterification. The result is a waxy, oil-like substance that is not found in most foods or common dietary fats.

How Cetyl Myristoleate (CMO) Works

Since its discovery, CMO has been used in a wide variety of joint support supplements for both people and animals. CMO is believed to work at the cellular level by supporting a healthy immune response and maintaining normal joint lubrication. CMO comes from a fatty acid named myristoleic acid which is believed to play a key roll in maintaining healthy joints. This type of fatty acid is sometimes referred to as an Omega 5 fatty acid.

The Role of Cetylated Fatty Acids

Studies suggest that cetylated fatty acids:

• May help support comfortable everyday joint movements
• May promote ease of motion and flexibility
• May support the body's natural response to physical activity

Although research is ongoing, published studies have explored how cetylated fatty acids interact with joint tissues at the cellular level, and some findings suggest a potential role in maintaining joint health, especially when used in combination with other lifestyle measures.

Our Formula

Our product contains a high concentration of cetyl myristoleate along with other cetylated fatty acids, which together form a synergistic complex. This fatty acid complex is designed to be well-absorbed and gentle on the stomach, making it an easy addition to your daily wellness routine. Dr. Diehl's focus of joint health research was on cetyl myristoleate and it's ability to provide joint health support.

We also work with veterinarians and supplement manufacturers to offer formulas designed specifically for pets, reflecting over two decades of use in both human and animal nutrition.

What to Expect

Many users report positive experiences when using cetyl myristoleate as part of their daily joint support routine. Individual results may vary, and optimal support often depends on consistent use and lifestyle factors such as exercise, weight management, and overall nutrition.

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

More About Harry W. Diehl, Ph.D

Harry W. Diehl was born in 1910 in Harrisonburg, Virginia. A self-taught chemist with a lifelong passion for scientific discovery, Diehl spent 40 years working at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), where he served in the Laboratory of Chemistry within the National Institute of Arthritis, Metabolic, and Digestive Diseases.

In the early 1960s, Diehl began investigating a unique compound found in certain animals. Through extensive research involving laboratory mice, he identified a naturally occurring substance later known as cetyl myristoleate (CMO). He subsequently found CMO to be present in male beavers and sperm whale oil as well. After years of experimentation using techniques such as gas chromatography and mass spectrometry, he succeeded in isolating the compound.

Diehl’s work led to the issuance of two U.S. patents on cetyl myristoleate—one in 1977 and a second in 1996. His findings were published in the Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences in March 1994, a peer-reviewed publication of the American Pharmaceutical Association and the American Chemical Society.

During his tenure at NIH, Diehl developed more than 500 novel compounds, several of which were patented by the U.S. government. He was also recognized in 1958 for creating a method to synthesize 2-deoxy-D-ribose, a sugar critical to DNA research and vaccine development.

Harry Diehl passed away in 1999, leaving behind a legacy of scientific innovation. His exploration of cetyl myristoleate sparked decades of interest in this unique fatty acid ester.