MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane) - Overview, History, Benefits, Precaution, Dosage

What is MSM?

Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is a kind of organic sulfur compound. It is also known as dimethyl sulfone (DMSO2). Basically, MSM is an oxidised form of dimethyl sulfone (DMSO2). MSM is a good source of sulfur that helps in reducing pain, inflammation, and warms the body. It is said that MSM contains around 34% of its weight. It is volatile, water-soluble, odourless, and has a slightly bitter taste. It exists in all living things and is also contained in the cartilage, muscles, skin, hair, and nails of human joints. Excellent analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties of MSM are well established.

In recent years, MSM has been marketed alone or mixed with glucosamine, chondroitin sulphate, etc, as a so-called health food material that claims to be effective against arthritis and beauty. Sulfur is also necessary for the formation of connective tissue such as tendons or ligaments. MSM is naturally present in grains (such as maize), fruits, vegetables (such as tomatoes, alfalfa), coffee, tea, and notably milk. These same foods also contain their precursor DMSO.

Origin, Habitat and Culture

Methylsulfonylmethane is a natural compound in the body. It circulates in the whole body with the help of blood plasma. It has been used as a supplement to moderate the MSM level in the blood plasma. It is replaced by natural anti-inflammatory drugs like DMSO for dimethyl sulfoxide to relieve inflammatory pain. In the late 1960s and 1970s, the use of DMSO declined due to adverse effects and relieving symptoms of osteoarthritis, arthritis, and gout. In addition, DMSO also leaves an unpleasant taste and smell in the mouth. 

MSM quickly got popular as an alternative to DMSO for two reasons. First, unlike DMSO, MSM does not mimic the effect and sensation of the garlic. Second, the structure and characteristics of these two molecules are comparable. Because MSM is merely a DMSO derivative, there are similarities between the two compounds.

As said, MSM is a substance made from DMSO. Although the body can create MSM naturally, taking extra supplements can assist to boost levels and fully benefit from its anti-inflammatory qualities. When pain is brought on by inflammation, such as with gout, osteoarthritis, or arthritis, treatment is frequently advised.

MSM comes from a variety of sources. Some plants, such as horsetail, as well as some foods, like cow's milk, beets, cabbage, tomatoes, coffee, tea, or beer, contain a lot of this chemical. However, the MSM levels of these products remain relatively low. That is why food supplements have also been developed.

Appearance & Composition 

MSM or Methylsulfonylmethane is generally found as a white crystalline solid powder. It is preferred as an alternative to DMSO powder because it does not smell. MSM is obtained from about 15% of ingested dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO). The composition of MSM is C2H6O2S and DMSO is (CH3)2SO. 

In the market, MSM is available in powder form, capsules and tablet form. It is also integrated into cream for topical use on the skin. Additionally, MSM can be mixed with other beneficial compounds like glucosamine or chondroitin, particularly for treating rheumatism.

Due to its high sulphur content - MSM contains 34% elemental sulfur - it is attractive as a supplement. Sulfur that is bioavailable, elemental, and cost-free can be utilised by the body.

Since sulphur is a trace element that plays a role in a variety of bodily processes, this property has a big benefit.

History of MSM

Since the 1980s, many studies have been done on MSM. Its anti-inflammatory and analgesic actions in particular have been researched since the beginning. Currently, a wide variety of outcomes have been linked to MSM, including improvement of insulin resistance, improvement of carbohydrate metabolism, arthritis, tendonitis, muscle spasms, lumbago, and rheumatoid arthritis. Future improvements and preventions are anticipated for a number of ailments, including accelerated wound healing, strengthening hair and nails, and enhanced collagen synthesis. MSM has gained popularity in recent years for its exceptional effectiveness in treating interstitial cystitis. There are a number of benefits of MSM which help the human body to work properly. The popularity of MSM is famous as a replacement for Dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO). Because it does not smell or taste dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) which is not bearable by the body. MSM's popularity is super quick and famous around the world.

The functionality of MSM (MSM Benefits)

Effect on Arthritis: There are kinds of arthritis and MSM is the supplement for it. Depending on the underlying cause, arthritis is classified as osteoarthritis, inflammatory arthritis, including rheumatoid arthritis. The most prevalent form of arthritis affects the joints, particularly in middle-aged and older adults. It mainly affects older adults and results in the deterioration of the soft bone tissues around joints, which causes pain, stiffness, and functional impairment. MSM is a substance that works to prevent bone and cartilage loss and lessen arthritis symptoms. According to a study, the effects of oral MSM supplementation on circulating immune complex levels and joint morphology in a model of spontaneous arthritis. It reported that it suppressed joint destruction. Environmental factors include infections with viruses, bacteria, mycoplasma, and the like. It is also recognised that some glycopeptides, type II collagen, and cartilage proteoglycans can cause arthritis. Environmental variables and inflammatory issues can both benefit from MSM's antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Effect On Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis: Seasonal allergies are allergies caused by exposure to substances in the air, such as pollen, that appear only at certain times of the year, and the main symptoms are rhinitis and conjunctivitis. The use of MSM powder or supplement helps to reduce seasonal allergic rhinitis and problems. As per the study, a group of people were on the MSM for 30 days. They reported improvement in symptoms of Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis and energy levels. On the other hand, no changes in serum IgE and histamine levels were also observed.

Effect On Interstitial Cystitis: Interstitial cystitis (IC) is a non-specific chronic inflammatory disease of the bladder interstitium, whose main symptoms are frequent urination, urinary urgency, and bladder pain (suprapubic pain) during urine storage. However, recently, it is considered to be a syndrome with the above symptoms as the main symptoms. The precursor of MSM is used to treat Interstitial Cystitis. MSM has strong anti-inflammatory properties that prevent chronic inflammatory disease by reducing the inflammation in the body as well as the skin.

Effect on Physical Activity: Physical activity and sports training increase the free radical and oxidative levels in the body. That is why you feel exhausted. MSM supplement is able to reduce post-workout oxidative stress and free radicals as well as reduce muscle damage. The compounds of MSM speed up the healing and recovery process of the body. The MSM is highly famous among gym lovers and athletes to drink right after a heavy workout. The sulfur particles from the MSM support production and recovery of the tissues, and cells.

Effect On Skin: Collagen is an important protein for the skin to look younger, clear and beautiful. MSM is famous among women for having healthy and glowing skin. MSM or sulfur particles are able to collagen production in the body. It increases flexibility, reduces collagen degradation, skin inflammation, quickly healing and many more. MSM fixes many skin problems due to its anti-inflammatory, collagen-boosting, and antioxidant properties. A quick cell regeneration by the MSM makes skin healthy. In addition, it is due to the free radicals, chances of acne and pimples, pigmentation, scar as well as ageing signs.

MSM Dosage

The right dose of MSM powder is as essential as any other supplement and drug. Well, there is no data that define the indicative dose for MSM. However, the amounts that are most frequently recommended to treat inflammatory pain range from 1 to 3 grams per day. 3 grams per day had a stronger impact than 1.5 grams in terms of reducing oxidative damage, preventing muscle damage, or reducing weariness from physical activity. 2,600 mg/day doses have been used for roughly 30 days to treat allergic rhinitis; the results start to show after the third week of treatment. Depending on personal needs and whether MSM is mixed with other active substances, the recommended daily amount may fluctuate.

It is frequently advised to spread out the MSM dosage throughout the day. Additionally, a maximum of 30 days of treatment is generally recommended. It is great for you to start the MSM dose gradually. In the first 2-3 days, consume a low dose and then gradually go for your recommended dose. For best use as per our body needs, consult a healthcare professional. 

MSM Precaution

As per the study, MSM constipation is considered sager and has been well tolerated. It is also noted that there are no known interactions between the other medications and any drugs or supplements. Although there is some study on its long-term consumption, more studies are advisable to learn more about the effects of prolonged supplementation with MSM.

MSM is a substance that is regarded as non-toxic and free of negative effects. Although the majority of research has identified no negative effects. A few isolated studies have observed moderate gastrointestinal discomfort, headache, sleeplessness, or exhaustion with MSM use. First, remember that MSM overdose is not good for your health. In addition, the dose of MSM supplement varies body by body. People used to follow another dose. It is very important to know your body dose of the MSM and prevent yourself from the adverse effects.

MSM is contraindicated as a precautionary measure in:

• children and pregnant or lactating women;
• people with kidney disorders;
• patients treated with anticancer chemotherapy.

If you are one of them, do not start using the MSM powder without any expert advice.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) on MSM