Table of Contents
Overview
Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is a chemical found in green plants, animals, and human beings. It can likewise be made in a laboratory. MSM has actually become popular because of the book the miracle of MSM: the natural option for pain. But there is little released clinical research to support its usage. Contrary to some literature that promotes MSM, there is no suggested dietary allowance (rda) for MSM or sulfur, which is in MSM. Sulfur shortage has not been described in the medical literature.
People take MSM by mouth and use it to the skin for chronic discomfort, osteoarthritis, joint inflammation, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoporosis, swelling around the joints (bursitis), tendinitis, swelling around the tendons (tenosynovitis), musculoskeletal discomfort, muscle cramps, solidified skin condition called scleroderma, scar tissue, stretch marks, hair loss, wrinkles, defense versus sun/wind burn, eye inflammation, oral hygiene, gum illness, wounds, cuts, and abrasions/accelerated injury recovery.
Individuals likewise take MSM by mouth for relief of allergies, persistent constipation, “sour stomach”, ulcers, a bowel disease called diverticulosis, premenstrual syndrome (pms), state of mind elevation, obesity, bad flow, hypertension, and high cholesterol. It is likewise taken by mouth for type 2 diabetes, liver issues, alzheimer’s illness, to manage snoring, lung conditions including emphysema and pneumonia, fatigue syndrome, autoimmune conditions (systemic lupus erythematous), hiv infection and aids, and cancer (breast cancer and colon cancer).
MSM is likewise taken by mouth for eye swelling, mucous membrane swelling, temporomandibular joint (tmj) issues, leg cramps, migraine, headaches, hangover, parasitic infections of the intestinal tract and urogenital tracts consisting of trichomonas vaginalis and giardia, yeast infection, insect bites, radiation poisoning, and to increase the immune system.
How does it work?
MSM might supply sulfur to make other chemicals in the body. [1]
History
A lot of research on MSM involves animal studies. MSM has been recommended for usage as a food supplement and is offered in the united states as a dietary supplement under the dietary supplement health and education act.
Chemistry
MSM is a normal oxidation product of dimethyl sulfoxide (dmso). Unlike dmso, MSM is odor free and is a dietary aspect. MSM has actually been referred to as “crystalline dmso.” bertken 1983 MSM offers a dietary source of sulfur for methionine.richmond 1986 MSM’s medical residential or commercial properties are theorized to be similar to dmso, without the smell and skin inflammation problems.
Pharmacology
The sulfur material of MSM can be utilized by the body to preserve regular connective tissues. MSM has likewise shown possible anti-inflammatory, antiatherosclerotic, and chemopreventative activities in addition to totally free radical scavenging. MSM has been reported to ease allergies, arthritis, gi upset, musculoskeletal pain, and to enhance the immune system. It also possesses antimicrobial results against organisms such as giardia lamblia, trichomonas vaginalis, and some fungi. The suggested system is that MSM may bind to surface area receptor websites, obstructing the interaction of parasite and host. [2]
Dietary sources of MSM
It’s not tough to get MSM by means of your diet plan. MSM is naturally discovered in:.
- Fresh vegetables and fruits
- Milk
- Fish
- Grains
This does not always suggest you’re getting a lot through your diet plan, however. As foods are processed, MSM is damaged. You may be able to increase the amount you get in food by focusing on fresh entire foods.
Natural vs. Created MSM
While MSM exists in nature, the form that’s marketed as a supplement is a chemical compound derived from dmso (dimethyl sulfoxide).
Dmso is available in an industrial grade and a medical-grade. Dmso was touted as a wonder treatment for arthritis in the 1960s however became questionable because of possible problems and undesirable side effects. As dmso faded from use as an arthritis treatment, MSM gained momentum.
Forms of MSM
MSM is mostly offered non-prescription as an oral solution (solution, tablets, or pills). It is sometimes combined with other dietary supplements, such as:.
- Glucosamine
- Chondroitin
- Vitamin c
- Vitamin d
- Guava leaf extract
- Boswellic acid
Some multi-ingredient joint solutions consist of numerous other supplements, too.
MSM is also readily available as a topical cream.
- Other names for MSM
- Dimethyl sulfone
- Methyl sulfone
- Sulfonylbismethan
- Organic sulfur
- Crystalline dimethyl sulfoxide
MSM research
MSM not only reduces swelling, however it also protects your cartilage from destruction, such as that seen in osteoarthritis, by suppressing interleukin 1-beta (il-1b) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (tnf-a), according to a review of literature released in 2017.
The result of decreased inflammation and cartilage preservation is an improved series of movement and physical function.
MSM can likewise minimize exercise-related muscle damage, especially when taken prior to laborious resistance or endurance workouts, the evaluation states. This is believed to be due to its antioxidant results. [3]
8 science-backed benefits of MSM supplements
Methylsulfonylmethane, more typically known as MSM, is a popular dietary supplement utilized to deal with a large selection of symptoms and conditions.
It’s a sulfur-containing compound discovered naturally in plants, animals and people. It can also be produced in a laboratory to create dietary supplements in powder or pill kind.
MSM is widely used in the natural medicine field and by people looking for a natural way to eliminate joint pain, decrease swelling and increase resistance.
In addition, research study supports its usage in dealing with a number of conditions from arthritis to rosacea.
Here are 8 science-backed health advantages of MSM.
Can reduce joint discomfort, which might enhance your lifestyle
Among the most popular uses of MSM is to decrease joint or muscle discomfort.
It has actually been revealed to benefit those with joint degeneration, a common reason for discomfort in the knees, back, hands and hips.
Joint degeneration can negatively impact your lifestyle by restricting your movement and movement.
Research studies have actually revealed that MSM considerably reduces inflammation in your body. It likewise hinders the breakdown of cartilage, a flexible tissue that protects the ends of your bones in joints.
A study in 100 individuals over the age of 50 discovered that treatment with a supplement including 1,200 mg of MSM for 12 weeks decreased discomfort, tightness and swelling in the joints, compared to a placebo.
The group getting the supplement likewise reported improved total quality of life and less trouble walking and rising.
Another research study in 32 individuals with lower back pain discovered that taking a glucosamine supplement consisting of MSM considerably decreased lumbar stiffness and discomfort upon motion, plus significantly increased quality of life.
Summary
Research studies have revealed that MSM is effective in decreasing joint pain, tightness and swelling. In doing so, it can enhance your quality of life.
Has anti-inflammatory results, such as increasing glutathione levels
The anti-inflammatory homes of MSM are well documented by scientific research.
It’s believed that MSM hinders nf-kb, a protein complex associated with inflammatory responses in your body.
It likewise minimizes the production of cytokines such as tumor necrosis element alpha (tnf-ɑ) and interleukin 6 (il-6), which are indicating proteins linked to systemic swelling.
In addition, MSM can increase levels of glutathione, a potent anti-oxidant produced by your body.
For instance, supplementing with MSM substantially decreased inflammation in mice with stomach ulcers by hindering the release of inflammatory cytokines consisting of tnf-ɑ and il-6, as well as increasing glutathione levels.
Another study in 40 physically active guys showed that taking 3 grams of MSM prior to exhaustive exercise decreased the release of inflammatory cytokines and avoided the over-stress of immune cells, compared to a placebo.
Summary
MSM might decrease the release of particles associated with inflammation, such as tnf-ɑ and il-6, in addition to increase levels of the effective antioxidant glutathione.
Can speed recovery after workout by reducing muscle damage and stress
During exhaustive exercise, muscle damage takes place and oxidative tension boosts.
This causes athletes to experience muscle pain and discomfort, which can impede athletic efficiency and training.
MSM can naturally speed muscle recovery after extreme exercise by lowering swelling and oxidative tension.
A research study in 18 guys revealed that taking 50 mg of MSM powder per kg of body weight for 10 days substantially minimized exercise-induced muscle damage and increased antioxidant activity following an 8.7 mile (14 km) run.
It might also be helpful for minimizing discomfort after extended exercise.
In one study, 22 healthy ladies received 3 grams of MSM or a placebo daily for three weeks leading up to a half marathon. The MSM group reported less muscle pain and joint discomfort than the placebo group.
Another research study found that athletic guys taking 3 grams of MSM daily for 2 weeks had lower levels of il-6 and less muscle pain after extreme resistance exercise.
Summary
MSM may help in reducing discomfort, muscle damage and oxidative tension after intense workout, assisting you recuperate more quickly.
Helps minimize arthritis symptoms by decreasing pain and tightness
Arthritis is a common inflammatory condition that causes discomfort, tightness and a decreased series of motion in your joints.
Because MSM has effective anti-inflammatory homes, it’s typically used as a natural option to medications to enhance arthritis-related symptoms.
A research study in 49 people with knee osteoarthritis found that taking 3.4 grams of MSM per day for 12 weeks reduced discomfort and stiffness and improved physical function, compared to a placebo.
Additionally, it can enhance the efficiency of other typical supplements utilized to deal with arthritis such as glucosamine sulfate, chondroitin sulfate and boswellic acid.
One research study found that integrating MSM with glucosamine and chondroitin was more reliable at reducing discomfort and tightness in people with knee osteoarthritis than glucosamine and chondroitin alone.
Another study showed that a daily supplement containing 5 grams of MSM and 7 grams of boswellic acid was more reliable than glucosamine at lowering pain and enhancing function in people with knee osteoarthritis.
What’s more, the people who received the MSM and boswellic acid supplement were less depending on anti-inflammatory medications than the glucosamine group.
Summary
MSM supplements have actually been shown to help reduce pain and stiffness in individuals with arthritis. They may likewise help improve physical function.
May help relieve allergic reaction symptoms by decreasing swelling
Hay fever is an allergic reaction that triggers signs such as watery eyes, sneezing, itching, runny nose and nasal congestion.
Typical triggers of allergic rhinitis include animal dander, pollen and molds.
After exposure to an irritant, numerous inflammatory substances such as prostaglandins and cytokines are launched, which results in undesirable signs.
Research studies have actually revealed that MSM might be effective in minimizing signs of allergic rhinitis.
It might decrease allergies by reducing inflammation and inhibiting the release of cytokines and prostaglandins.
A study in 50 individuals with hay fever discovered that a dose of 2,600 mg of MSM per day over one month minimized signs including itching, congestion, shortness of breath, sneezing and coughing.
Additionally, participants experienced a substantial increase in energy by day 14.
Summary
MSM may help reduce allergy-related signs– including coughing, shortness of breath, blockage, sneezing and tiredness– by reducing swelling.
Can boost immunity and assist you remain healthy
Your immune system is a specialized network of tissues, cells and organs that protects your body against disease and illness.
It can be deteriorated by things like stress, disease, a bad diet, inadequate sleep or lack of activity.
Sulfur compounds such as MSM play essential functions in the health of your immune system.
For example, MSM may work in decreasing oxidative tension and swelling that can compromise resistance. Given that it works in decreasing levels of inflammatory compounds like il-6 and tnf-ɑ, MSM may lower stress on your body immune system.
In addition, it plays a part in the production of glutathione, your body’s master antioxidant. It may also assist increase levels of this essential compound.
Having adequate levels of glutathione is crucial for the overall health and function of your immune system.
A test-tube research study showed that MSM successfully brought back glutathione levels and reduced inflammatory markers in mouse cells that had actually been deteriorated with hiv proteins.
Summary
MSM might assist improve your body immune system by lowering swelling and increasing glutathione levels.
Might improve skin health by reinforcing keratin
Keratin is a protein that acts as the main structural component in your hair, skin and nails.
It consists of high levels of the sulfur-containing amino acid cysteine. That’s why charred hair gives off a characteristic sulfurous smell.
MSM might be helpful for skin health by acting as a sulfur donor to keratin. This, in turn, can assist strengthen this essential protein.
MSM also helps reduce swelling, which can damage skin cells and cause indications of early aging like wrinkles.
It may even minimize symptoms of problematic skin problem such as rosacea, which can trigger redness, inflammation and inflammation of the skin.
One research study showed that, when applied to the skin, MSM substantially enhanced soreness, itching, inflammation, hydration and skin color in people with rosacea.
Summary
MSM might improve skin health by enhancing keratin and minimizing swelling. It could even help reduce symptoms of specific skin conditions, too.
May have cancer-fighting residential or commercial properties
Among the most recent areas of research study including MSM is studying its effectiveness in fighting cancer cells. Although the research study is restricted, the outcomes have actually been assuring up until now.
Numerous test-tube studies have actually revealed that MSM prevents the growth of stomach, esophageal, liver, colon, skin and bladder cancer cells.
It seems to do this by destructive cancer cell dna and promoting cancer cell death.
MSM likewise appears to prevent the spread of cancer cells, also called transition.
A study in mice with liver cancer revealed that those injected with MSM had less tumors, smaller sized tumor size and less liver damage than those who did not get the treatment.
Another mouse study demonstrated that MSM prevented the growth of human breast cancer cells.
Although these results are motivating, more research is required to figure out the security and efficacy of using MSM in cancer treatment.
Summary
Research has shown that MSM displays cancer-fighting properties in test-tube and animal research studies, but more research is needed. [4]
What are the adverse effects of MSM supplements?
Typical adverse effects connected with MSM include:.
- Diarrhea
- Stomach pain
- Queasiness
Opposite effects consist of:.
- Swelling
- Tiredness
- Difficulty concentrating
- Sleeping disorders
- Headache [5]
The long-lasting safety of methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is not well known, however MSM is probably safe to consider up to 6 months. [6]
How to prevent negative effects when taking MSM
1. Start gradually
Start with any new supplement it is usually an excellent idea to start with a little dosage and increase your dose gradually so that you can look for negative effects and assessment how the supplement is working for you. You can even start with 1/2 or 1/4 or the maker’s suggested dose.
2. Examine labels
Search for included active ingredients in your supplement. Sometimes the active ingredients included the processing of supplements is the true perpetrator in adverse effects.
3. Utilize a quality brand
Utilize a brand that was suggested to you by somebody you understand, or your natural health practitioner.
4. Take MSM early in the day
Do not take MSM late in the day or at bedtime to avoid the adverse effects of sleeping disorders.
5. Take MSM with food
When you first begin taking MSM, it is suggested to take it with food. It is more common to have adverse effects from brand-new supplements when you take them on an empty stomach.
MSM: is it for everybody?
Some who have reactions to sulfa drugs also have trouble with MSM, so if you have reactions to sulfa drugs, you MSM might not be the very best solution for you.
Individuals with state of mind disorders appear to be more likely to have serious mental adverse effects like anxiety and depression.
If you have mild to severe nutritional shortages, MSM could exacerbate that issue. MSM can deplete molybdenum, an important trace element.
People who take prescription or over the counter medications on a regular basis might find that MSM impacts the method their medications work.
Those whose bodies are significantly harmful or ill are at greater risk for detox responses and negative effects. It may not be that MSM is the problem, however if it eliminates unwanted metals or parasites from your body when you take it, your body might feel rather ill during the detox procedure.
If MSM causes adverse effects for you, or appears incompatible with your scenario, do not despair. There are many fantastic natural solutions to consider in lieu of MSM. [7]
How should I utilize this medicine?
Take by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the instructions on the plan labeling or ask your health care specialist. Do not take this supplement more frequently than directed.
Speak to your pediatrician regarding using this supplement in children. Unique care may be needed.
Overdosage: if you think you have taken excessive of this medication contact a poison nerve center or emergency room at the same time.
What if I miss a dosage?
If you miss out on a dose, take it as quickly as you can. If it is almost time for your next dosage, take only that dose. Do not take double or additional doses.
What may interact with this medicine?
Consult your physician or health care expert if you are taking any of the following medications:.
- Diflunisal
- Medicines that treat or prevent embolism like aspirin, dalteparin, enoxaparin, ticlopidine, warfarin
- Nsaids, medications for discomfort and swelling, like ibuprofen or naproxen
- Other organic supplements
This list might not explain all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Likewise tell them if you smoke, consume alcohol, or utilize controlled substances. Some items might connect with your medicine.
What should I expect while using this medicine?
See your medical professional if your symptoms do not get better or if they worsen.
If you are arranged for any medical or oral procedure, tell your doctor that you are taking this supplement. You may require to stop taking this supplement before the treatment.
Herbal or dietary supplements are not managed like medications. Rigid quality control requirements are not needed for dietary supplements. The purity and strength of these items can differ. The safety and result of this dietary supplement for a specific illness or illness is not well known. This product is not intended to diagnose, deal with, treat or prevent any disease.
The food and drug administration recommends the following to assist consumers secure themselves:
- Constantly read product labels and follow directions.
- Natural does not suggest a product is safe for human beings to take.
- Look for items that consist of usp after the active ingredient name. This suggests that the producer followed the requirements of the us pharmacopoeia.
- Supplements made or offered by a nationally known food or drug business are most likely to be made under tight controls. You can write to the business to learn more about how the item was made. [8]
Keep in mind
MSM has actually frequently been used by grownups in dosages of 1-6 grams by mouth daily for approximately 16 weeks. [9]
Special precautions and cautions
Pregnancy and breast-feeding: there isn’t adequate dependable information to understand if MSM is safe to utilize when pregnant or breast feeding. Remain on the safe side and prevent usage.
Varicose veins and other circulatory issues (persistent venous insufficiency): applying a cream that contains MSM to the lower limbs can increase swelling and pain in people with varicose veins and other circulatory issues. [10]
Recommendations
- https://www.rxlist.com/methylsulfonylmethane/supplements.htm
- https://www.drugs.com/npp/methylsulfonylmethane-MSM.html
- https://www.verywellhealth.com/MSM-methylsulfonylmethane-supplement-for-arthritis-190079#toc-natural-vs-created-MSM
- https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/MSM-supplements
- https://www.medicinenet.com/methylsulfonylmethane_MSM-oral/article.htm#what_are_the_side_effects_of_MSM_supplements
- https://supplements.selfdecode.com/blog/methylsulfonylmethane-MSM/
- https://www.earthclinic.com/supplements/MSM-side-effects.html
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/20454-methylsulfonylmethane-MSM-oral-dosage-forms
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/natural/522.html
- https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-522/methylsulfonylmethane-MSM#:~:text=methylsulfonylmethane%20( MSM)% 20is% 20a% 20chemical, other% 20chemicals% 20in% 20the% 20body.