Nervonic acid is just another example of a component of human milk (a fatty
acid)that will be marketed to the public.  Heaven forbid we encourage
breastfeeding.  Instead lets just add it to infant formula or market it to
all the adults who weren't breastfed or  partially breastfed. They are
marketing a product based on human milk for treatment of MS, too.  Let's not
broadcast that too loudly, it might make women think twice about how they
feed their babies....Valerie W. McClain, IBCLC

http://www.hort.purdue.edu/newcrop/proceedings1996/v3-021.html
"Since nervonic acid is an important constituent of brain and membrane
phospholipids, it is vital that the body has an adequate provision of this
fatty acid. If, for any reason, the body cannot make this lipid, then a
dietary source is indicated. Two such situations are under active
investigation; multiple sclerosis (MS), where there are indications that
there is inadequate provision of nervonic acid; and premature birth, where
the infant no longer benefits from maternal nutrition. It is of interest to
note that human breast milk contains nervonic acid and that MS has been
linked to the use of formula feeds. It is suggested that, breast milk appears
to confer a resistance to developing the disease. Croda Universal have filed
patents on the treatment of MS with nervonic acid and the use of nervonic
acid as a lipid supplement for babies. Products containing lunaria oil are in
clinical development and are expected to complete the initial phases of
development within 2 to 3 years."

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