Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) is an organic sulfur-containing molecule that can dissolve polar and non-polar molecules. This means that DMSO can dissolve both fat-based and water-based substances, making it easily absorbable in the human body. It is commonly used to reduce pain and speed healing in the body. Natural health practitioners commonly recommend this for the treatment of Interstitial Cystitis, Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, and painful skin conditions like Shingles, bunions, and scleroderma.

Understanding The Link Between DMSO & MSM

In the human body, dimethyl sulfoxide is naturally converted to MSM. It is still unclear if this is the cause of its beneficial anti-inflammatory and pain-killing effects. Some practitioners will recommend using MSM instead of DMSO, although there is no research comparing the two.

Key Uses of DMSO Supplements

Interstitial Cystitis

Supplementation with DMSO has been shown to help treat bladder infections and interstitial cystitis, and it is approved by the FDA for use in these conditions. Often it will be directly delivered to the bladder by using a flexible catheter and allowed to sit for 15 minutes before being expelled with the urine. This helps to reduce inflammation and reduce the bladder contractions that cause urgency and increased frequency. It also penetrates the bladder wall and blocks the nerves that transmit bladder pain. Orally supplemented dimethyl sulfoxide may not have the same degree of benefit in these cases.

Topical Uses

Because of its ability to easily mix with both fat and water, DMSO can travel through our skin and body cells very easily. The presence of dimethyl sulfoxide in the body can create a “garlic taste” in the mouth. In fact, contact of DMSO with the skin can result in a garlic-like taste in the mouth because of its incredibly fast dispersion in the body. Most often it is applied topically to help reduce local nerve pain in conditions such as arthritis, shingles, bunions, and scleroderma.

Shopping Tips & Using DMSO Creams & Supplements

DMSO does not naturally occur in food, it is a byproduct in wood and paper processing. Supplemental dimethyl sulfoxide can be taken by mouth, used topically in creams or ointments, or given intravenously. Because of its ease of absorption through the skin, it is most commonly found in topical solutions. 

It may be found alone or in combinations for the treatment of pain, inflammation, and arthritis. When using DMSO creams, be sure to monitor the other ingredients, as they can easily carry impurities along with beneficial ingredients across the skin barrier. The percentage of DMSO contained in the cream can vary anywhere from 25% - 90%, so choose your supplement according to your needs.