Msm
Updated Aug. 15th, 2019
Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is a derivative of DMSO and is safer to use because it does not accumulate as rapidly in the body. It also does not have an offensive “rotten egg” odour. As a source of organic sulphur, MSM helps to build protein, connective tissue, hormones and enzymes. MSM can be helpful for those individuals who have inflammatory conditions like arthritis, lupus and interstitial cystitis, suffer from seasonal allergies, or have pain due to other health conditions.
Analgesic – Pain Relief
The pain relieving activity of MSM is believed to be fourfold. Firstly it can directly reduce the transmission of pain signals along nerve fibers. Secondly it increases blood flow to an inflamed area. Thirdly it reduces muscle spasms. And lastly, MSM stops the release of inflammatory compounds. All of these activities help MSM to reduce pain, particularly when it is due to inflammation.
Anti-inflammatory - Arthritis
In addition to its ability to directly and indirectly reduce pain in arthritic conditions, MSM can also be used to help treat those suffering from Osteoarthritis. Supplementation for 12 weeks (1123mg taken 3x daily) has been found to improve pain and physical performance in those suffering from osteoarthritis. Often, MSM will be combined with other joint support nutrients such as Chondroitin, Glucosamine and Collagen Type II to maximize the benefit to Joint Health. Interestingly, many of these supplements are beneficial for moderate to severe joint pain, whereas MSM is most beneficial with mild to moderate joint pains.
Detoxification
Supplementation of MSM can also help the body to detoxify by supporting the cleansing function of the liver. MSM is the natural breakdown product of DMSO in the body, which is a commonly used agent for the removal of mercury from the human body. Because of this, it is speculated that taking MSM may in itself help to clear mercury from the body. Interestingly, recent research has focused on the use of MSM in the prevention and treatment of some cancers, such as breast, colon and lung. Further research will be required to draw conclusions on these uses.
Topical Use
Many companies use MSM in topical preparations for arthritis pain relief. Interestingly, from this use, topical MSM has spread to use in other conditions such as: Rosacea, Eczema, and even Acne. Initial research on its use in rosacea and eczema are promising, although further research is necessary.
How can I get MSM?
Natural MSM can be found in raw dark green vegetables, and raw red, or yellow fruits and vegetables as well. It can also be found in fish, meat and poutry, as well as eggs and milk. MSM can be purchased as capsules or powder. Another name for MSM is DMSO2. It is often combined with other anti-inflammatory agents in formulas for musculoskeletal health, joint health, allergies and pain relief. MSM is often added to creams and ointments for the healing of skin conditions and relief of joint pain. Moisture and heat destroy the MSM content of foods and supplements. Taking vitamin C with your MSM will help to improve its effect. The therapeutic effects of MSM may take 3 weeks or longer to appear.
Wow! MSM really works when you have bad joint pain. I had been taking an NSAID type medication and was getting really terrible side effects from it. I boosted up my MSM and found that I was able to get off the medication completely, thank God. I also helps your skin and nails, which people started commenting on the brightness of my skin after a few months.
Hello Peggy,
That is great to hear, thank you for sharing. We're glad you were able to find a natural alternative that worked for you and doesn't have the side effects you were experiencing before. The skin brightening is a nice bonus too.
Have a healthy day!
I take MSM as part of my joint health regimen. I'm glad I found this article to learn more about this supplement.
Hello Angie,
Thank you for sharing, we're happy you found us and can learn more about the supplements you're taking and your health in general. If you'd like to learn more about joint supporting supplements, check out our article on it here:
https://www.nationalnutrition.ca/articles/health-concerns/joint-health/
Stay healthy & well!
MSM is something I have not heard about before so reading that it is a source of organic sulfur that is safer and does not accumulate rapidly was very interesting to me, as well as learning that MSM does not have that trademark smell of rotten eggs. I would feel weary about consuming it orally but knowing that MSM is in some topical products to help relieve pain is so interesting and a way that would be easier and less daunting to try it. For some reason topical sounds better.
Hello O,
Thanks for sharing your thoughts on MSM. It's always exciting to discover new things, especially when they come with interesting benefits like being a safer source of organic sulfur and not having that unpleasant smell. Trying it out in topical products does sound like a more approachable way to experience its potential pain-relieving effects. If you decide to give it a shot, we hope it brings you the relief you're looking for. Let us know if you have any more questions or if there's anything else we can assist you with and in the mean time check out this article on joint health for other alternatives: https://www.nationalnutrition.ca/articles/health-concerns/joint-health/