Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system (CNS). It damages the myelin sheath that covers nerve fibers, causing communication problems between the brain and the rest of the body.

This leads to various symptoms such as muscle weakness, numbness, fatigue, and problems with coordination and balance.

MS has no known cure, and the available treatments aim to slow down the progression and alleviate symptoms. These treatments include medications, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes.

However, some side effects accompany these treatments, and they may not be effective for all patients.

The potential of Fruit Peel Extracts for MS treatment

Fruits are rich in flavonoids, which are natural compounds with potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Flavonoids are mainly found in the peel and skin of fruits.

Some flavonoids have shown promising results in reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the CNS, which are the main factors contributing to MS progression.

Research studies have investigated the potential of fruit peel extracts in MS treatment, and the findings are encouraging. Here are some fruit peel extracts that showed potential in MS treatment:.

Citrus Peel Extract

Citrus fruits such as oranges, lemons, and grapefruits are rich in flavonoids, especially hesperidin. Hesperidin showed potent anti-inflammatory effects in the CNS and improved nerve cell function in MS mice models.

Another study found that a citrus peel extract reduced MS relapses and improved motor function in MS patients.

Pomegranate Peel Extract

Pomegranate peel is rich in punicalagin, a flavonoid that has profound anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Punicalagin reduced inflammation and oxidative stress in MS mice models and improved their motor skills.

Another study found that pomegranate peel extract reduced brain lesions and improved cognitive function in MS patients.

Apple Peel Extract

Apples are a rich source of flavonoids, especially quercetin. Quercetin has potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and has shown promising results in reducing MS progression in mice models.

Another study found that apple peel extract improved cognitive function and reduced oxidative stress in MS patients.

Strawberry Peel Extract

Strawberries are a rich source of anthocyanins, which have potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Anthocyanins reduced inflammation and oxidative stress in the CNS and improved motor function in MS mice models.

Another study found that strawberry peel extract improved CNS function and reduced brain lesions in MS patients.

Conclusion

Flavonoids found in fruit peel extracts have potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may help in MS treatment. However, these studies are still in their early stages, and more research is needed to explore their potential in humans.

Fruit peel extracts are not a replacement for the current MS treatment options, but they could be a promising addition to the available treatments in the future.