Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system (CNS).

It is characterized by inflammation, demyelination, and axonal loss of the brain and spinal cord, which can lead to a wide range of symptoms, including vision loss, muscle weakness, and cognitive impairment. While there is currently no cure for MS, there are several promising therapeutic options that can help manage the symptoms and improve the quality of life for those affected by the disease.

What is Fruit Peel?

Fruit peel refers to the outer, protective layer of fruits such as citrus fruits, apples, and pears.

It is typically removed and discarded before the fruit is consumed, but recent studies have shown that fruit peel contains a wealth of natural compounds that can offer several health benefits, including neuroprotective effects.

Neuroprotective Effects of Fruit Peel in Multiple Sclerosis

Several studies have investigated the potential neuroprotective effects of fruit peel in MS.

One study, published in the Journal of Neuroimmunology, found that compounds found in orange peel, including polymethoxyflavones and limonoids, could inhibit the production of inflammatory cytokines and reduce the activation of microglia and astrocytes in the CNS, which are key drivers of MS pathology. Another study, published in the Journal of Natural Products, found that compounds found in grapefruit peel, including flavonoids and limonoids, could reduce demyelination and axonal loss in a mouse model of MS.

Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Fruit Peel in Multiple Sclerosis

The anti-inflammatory effects of fruit peel have also been investigated in MS.

One study, published in the Journal of Food Science and Technology, found that compounds found in pomegranate peel could reduce the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and increase the expression of anti-inflammatory cytokines in a mouse model of MS.

Another study, published in PLoS One, found that dietary supplementation with apple peel extract could reduce the severity of autoimmune encephalomyelitis, an animal model of MS, by reducing the production of inflammatory cytokines and increasing the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines.

Antioxidant Effects of Fruit Peel in Multiple Sclerosis

The antioxidant properties of fruit peel have also been studied in MS.

One study, published in the journal Pharmacognosy Reviews, found that compounds found in citrus peel, including flavonoids and phenolic acids, could reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the CNS.

Another study, published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, found that compounds found in blueberry peel, including anthocyanins and flavonoids, could protect against oxidative stress and reduce the severity of demyelination in a mouse model of MS.

Conclusion

The promising therapeutic effects of fruit peel in MS suggest that it may be a valuable addition to the current armamentarium of therapeutic options for the disease.

Further studies are needed to confirm the neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects of fruit peel in human trials, but the results so far are encouraging.