Cannabis Oils & Pomegranate Peel Extract

Happy New Year everyone!  We hope that 2021 is a fantastic year and that we see lots of positive developments in the field of multiple sclerosis research.  For the first time last year, we trialled an article that contained brief summaries of multiple studies.  As this received a very positive response, we will continue using this format.  Here is our first one for the year….

Article 1: Safety and efficacy of low-dose medical cannabis oils in multiple sclerosis

A small study from Denmark has investigated the safety and effectiveness of cannabis oils in people living with MS.  The oils were delivered under the tongue.  Generally, they found that the cannabis oils were safe (a few minor side-effects were observed) and tolerated by most participants.  Importantly, they also found that the treatment reduced pain, spasticity and sleep issues, and did not impact on mobility or cognition.  The abstract can be read here.

Article 2: Pomegranate peel extract ameliorates the severity of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis via modulation of gut microbiota

A Chinese study has tested the effects of pomegranate peel extract in an animal model of multiple sclerosis.  Researchers have been interested in this extract for a while, as it has been shown to reduce inflammation.  In this study, it was found that the pomegranate peel extract led to clinical improvement and less myelin loss in the mice.  Interestingly, it was seen that feeding the peel extract to the mice caused a change in the gut microbiome.  Therefore, it was thought that it was the change in the gut microbiome that was responsible for the other benefits observed.  As this is an animal study, we will have to wait to see if similar results are obtained if the research is pursued in people living with multiple sclerosis.  The abstract can be read here. 

If you have questions on either study, please reach out to us via any of our social media channels, or email them directly to our co-founder, Brett, at brett@mstranslate.com.au.