Table of Contents
Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is a chemical discovered in green plants, animals, and human beings. It can also be made in a laboratory. MSM has become popular because of the book the miracle of MSM: the natural solution for pain. But there is little published clinical research to support its usage. Contrary to some literature that promotes MSM, there is no recommended dietary allowance (rda) for MSM or sulfur, which is in MSM. Sulfur deficiency has actually not been described in the medical literature.
People take MSM by mouth and apply it to the skin for chronic discomfort, osteoarthritis, joint swelling, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoporosis, inflammation around the joints (bursitis), tendinitis, swelling around the tendons (tenosynovitis), musculoskeletal pain, muscle cramps, hardened skin condition called scleroderma, scar tissue, stretch marks, loss of hair, wrinkles, defense versus sun/wind burn, eye swelling, oral health, gum disease, wounds, cuts, and abrasions/accelerated injury healing.
People also take MSM by mouth for relief of allergic reactions, persistent irregularity, “sour stomach”, ulcers, a bowel illness called diverticulosis, premenstrual syndrome (pms), state of mind elevation, weight problems, bad blood circulation, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. It is also taken by mouth for type 2 diabetes, liver problems, alzheimer’s disease, to manage snoring, lung disorders consisting of emphysema and pneumonia, fatigue syndrome, autoimmune disorders (systemic lupus erythematous), hiv infection and help, and cancer (breast cancer and colon cancer).
MSM is also taken by mouth for eye inflammation, mucous membrane swelling, temporomandibular joint (tmj) problems, leg cramps, migraine, headaches, hangover, parasitic infections of the digestive tract and urogenital systems including trichomonas vaginalis and giardia, yeast infection, insect bites, radiation poisoning, and to boost the body immune system.
How does it work?
MSM may supply sulfur to make other chemicals in the body. [1]
History
The majority of research on MSM includes animal research studies. MSM has been suggested for use as a food supplement and is available in the united states as a dietary supplement under the dietary supplement health and education act.
Chemistry
MSM is a normal oxidation item of dimethyl sulfoxide (dmso). Unlike dmso, MSM is odor complimentary and is a dietary factor. MSM has been referred to as “crystalline dmso.” bertken 1983 MSM offers a dietary source of sulfur for methionine.richmond 1986 MSM’s medicinal homes are thought to be similar to dmso, without the odor and skin inflammation problems.
Pharmacology
The sulfur content of MSM can be used by the body to maintain typical connective tissues. MSM has likewise shown possible anti-inflammatory, antiatherosclerotic, and chemopreventative activities in addition to free radical scavenging. MSM has been reported to reduce allergies, arthritis, gi upset, musculoskeletal discomfort, and to increase the immune system. It also has antimicrobial impacts versus organisms such as giardia lamblia, trichomonas vaginalis, and some fungi. The recommended system is that MSM may bind to surface area receptor websites, blocking the interaction of parasite and host. [2]
Dietary sources of MSM
It’s not difficult to get MSM via your diet plan. MSM is naturally found in:.
- Fresh fruits and vegetables
- Milk
- Fish
- Grains
This doesn’t always imply you’re getting a lot through your diet plan, though. As foods are processed, MSM is damaged. You might be able to increase the amount you get in food by concentrating on fresh entire foods.
Natural vs. Created MSM
While MSM exists in nature, the kind that’s marketed as a supplement is a chemical compound originated from dmso (dimethyl sulfoxide).
Dmso is available in a commercial grade and a medical-grade. Dmso was promoted as a wonder treatment for arthritis in the 1960s however ended up being questionable because of potential problems and undesirable negative effects. As dmso faded from usage as an arthritis treatment, MSM acquired momentum.
Forms of MSM
MSM is primarily sold over the counter as an oral formula (option, tablets, or capsules). It is often combined with other dietary supplements, such as:.
- Glucosamine
- Chondroitin
- Vitamin c
- Vitamin d
- Guava leaf extract
- Boswellic acid
Some multi-ingredient joint formulas include lots of other supplements, also.
MSM is likewise available as a topical cream.
- Other names for MSM
- Dimethyl sulfone
- Methyl sulfone
- Sulfonylbismethan
- Organic sulfur
- Crystalline dimethyl sulfoxide
MSM research study
MSM not only lowers swelling, however it also safeguards your cartilage from degradation, such as that seen in osteoarthritis, by suppressing interleukin 1-beta (il-1b) and growth necrosis factor-alpha (tnf-a), according to a review of literature published in 2017.
The outcome of decreased swelling and cartilage conservation is a better range of movement and physical function.
MSM can also lower exercise-related muscle damage, particularly when taken before difficult resistance or endurance exercises, the evaluation states. This is thought to be due to its antioxidant results. [3]
8 science-backed benefits of MSM supplements
Methylsulfonylmethane, more frequently referred to as MSM, is a popular dietary supplement utilized to treat a large variety of signs and conditions.
It’s a sulfur-containing compound found naturally in plants, animals and people. It can likewise be produced in a lab to develop dietary supplements in powder or pill type.
MSM is extensively utilized in the alternative medicine field and by people searching for a natural way to ease joint pain, minimize swelling and boost immunity.
In addition, research study supports its use in dealing with a variety of conditions from arthritis to rosacea.
Here are 8 science-backed health advantages of MSM.
Can decrease joint discomfort, which might improve your quality of life
Among the most popular uses of MSM is to decrease joint or muscle discomfort.
It has been revealed to benefit those with joint degeneration, a typical cause of discomfort in the knees, back, hands and hips.
Joint degeneration can negatively impact your quality of life by restricting your motion and movement.
Research studies have actually revealed that MSM substantially decreases inflammation in your body. It also hinders the breakdown of cartilage, a flexible tissue that protects the ends of your bones in joints.
A research 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 pain, stiffness and swelling in the joints, compared to a placebo.
The group receiving the supplement likewise reported enhanced overall quality of life and less problem strolling and getting out of bed.
Another research study in 32 individuals with lower back pain found that taking a glucosamine supplement including MSM significantly reduced back tightness and discomfort upon movement, plus significantly increased quality of life.
Summary
Research studies have actually shown that MSM works in lowering joint discomfort, stiffness and swelling. In doing so, it can enhance your lifestyle.
Has anti-inflammatory effects, such as increasing glutathione levels
The anti-inflammatory properties of MSM are well documented by clinical research.
It’s believed that MSM hinders nf-kb, a protein complex associated with inflammatory responses in your body.
It likewise decreases the production of cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor alpha (tnf-ɑ) and interleukin 6 (il-6), which are signifying proteins connected to systemic inflammation.
In addition, MSM can increase levels of glutathione, a potent anti-oxidant produced by your body.
For example, supplementing with MSM considerably lowered swelling in mice with stomach ulcers by preventing the release of inflammatory cytokines including tnf-ɑ and il-6, as well as increasing glutathione levels.
Another research study in 40 physically active men showed that taking 3 grams of MSM prior to exhaustive workout decreased the release of inflammatory cytokines and avoided the over-stress of immune cells, compared to a placebo.
Summary
MSM may minimize the release of molecules connected with swelling, such as tnf-ɑ and il-6, in addition to increase levels of the effective antioxidant glutathione.
Can speed healing after workout by minimizing muscle damage and tension
Throughout extensive workout, muscle damage occurs and oxidative stress increases.
This triggers professional athletes to experience muscle pain and discomfort, which can impede athletic efficiency and training.
MSM can naturally speed muscle healing after extreme workout by decreasing inflammation and oxidative tension.
A study in 18 guys showed that taking 50 mg of MSM powder per kg of body weight for 10 days substantially decreased exercise-induced muscle damage and increased antioxidant activity following an 8.7 mile (14 km) run.
It may also be useful for lowering discomfort after prolonged exercise.
In one research study, 22 healthy women received 3 grams of MSM or a placebo per day 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 males taking 3 grams of MSM daily for two weeks had lower levels of il-6 and less muscle pain after extreme resistance workout.
Summary
MSM might help reduce discomfort, muscle damage and oxidative stress after intense exercise, helping you recover faster.
Helps reduce arthritis symptoms by minimizing pain and stiffness
Arthritis is a typical inflammatory condition that triggers discomfort, stiffness and a lowered variety of movement in your joints.
Considering that MSM has effective anti-inflammatory properties, it’s typically utilized as a natural option to medications to enhance arthritis-related symptoms.
A study in 49 people with knee osteoarthritis found that taking 3.4 grams of MSM daily for 12 weeks lowered discomfort and stiffness and improved physical function, compared to a placebo.
In addition, it can boost the effectiveness of other common supplements used to treat arthritis such as glucosamine sulfate, chondroitin sulfate and boswellic acid.
One research study discovered that integrating MSM with glucosamine and chondroitin was more reliable at reducing discomfort and stiffness in individuals with knee osteoarthritis than glucosamine and chondroitin alone.
Another research study revealed that an everyday supplement consisting of 5 grams of MSM and 7 grams of boswellic acid was more efficient than glucosamine at lowering pain and enhancing function in individuals with knee osteoarthritis.
What’s more, the people who received the MSM and boswellic acid supplement were less based on anti-inflammatory medications than the glucosamine group.
Summary
MSM supplements have been revealed to help reduce pain and stiffness in people with arthritis. They may likewise help enhance physical function.
May assistance ease allergic reaction signs by reducing swelling
Allergic rhinitis is an allergic reaction that causes signs such as watery eyes, sneezing, itching, runny nose and nasal blockage.
Typical triggers of allergic rhinitis consist of animal dander, pollen and molds.
After exposure to an irritant, many inflammatory substances such as prostaglandins and cytokines are launched, which results in unpleasant symptoms.
Research studies have actually shown that MSM may work in minimizing symptoms of hay fever.
It may decrease allergic reactions by decreasing inflammation and inhibiting the release of cytokines and prostaglandins.
A study in 50 people with hay fever discovered that a dose of 2,600 mg of MSM each day over thirty days lowered signs consisting of itching, blockage, shortness of breath, sneezing and coughing.
Additionally, individuals experienced a significant boost in energy by day 14.
Summary
MSM might help in reducing allergy-related symptoms– including coughing, shortness of breath, congestion, sneezing and fatigue– by reducing swelling.
Can enhance resistance and assist you stay healthy
Your body immune system is a customized network of tissues, cells and organs that protects your body versus health problem and disease.
It can be compromised by things like tension, health problem, a bad diet plan, inadequate sleep or lack of activity.
Sulfur substances such as MSM play important functions in the health of your body immune system.
For instance, MSM may work in lowering oxidative tension and inflammation that can weaken immunity. Considering that it works in lowering levels of inflammatory substances like il-6 and tnf-ɑ, MSM might minimize tension on your body immune system.
Furthermore, it plays a part in the creation of glutathione, your body’s master anti-oxidant. It might likewise help increase levels of this essential compound.
Having sufficient levels of glutathione is important for the general health and function of your body immune system.
A test-tube study revealed that MSM successfully brought back glutathione levels and reduced inflammatory markers in mouse cells that had been compromised with hiv proteins.
Summary
MSM might help enhance your body immune system by lowering inflammation and increasing glutathione levels.
Might improve skin health by reinforcing keratin
Keratin is a protein that acts as the primary 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 particular sulfurous odor.
MSM may be advantageous for skin health by acting as a sulfur donor to keratin. This, in turn, can assist enhance this crucial protein.
MSM also helps reduce swelling, which can harm skin cells and cause indications of premature aging like wrinkles.
It may even reduce signs of bothersome skin conditions such as rosacea, which can cause inflammation, irritation and inflammation of the skin.
One research study revealed that, when applied to the skin, MSM considerably improved redness, itching, swelling, hydration and skin color in people with rosacea.
Summary
MSM might improve skin health by strengthening keratin and minimizing swelling. It could even help in reducing signs of particular skin conditions, too.
May have cancer-fighting homes
One of the most recent areas of research study including MSM is studying its efficiency in combating cancer cells. Although the research is limited, the outcomes have actually been assuring so far.
Several test-tube studies have revealed that MSM inhibits the development of stomach, esophageal, liver, colon, skin and bladder cancer cells.
It appears to do this by destructive cancer cell dna and stimulating cancer cell death.
MSM likewise appears to prevent the spread of cancer cells, likewise known as transition.
A research study in mice with liver cancer showed that those injected with MSM had fewer tumors, smaller tumor size and less liver damage than those who did not receive the treatment.
Another mouse research study demonstrated that MSM prevented the growth of human breast cancer cells.
Although these outcomes are motivating, more research study is needed to determine the security and efficacy of using MSM in cancer treatment.
Summary
Research study has actually shown that MSM displays cancer-fighting properties in test-tube and animal studies, however more research study is required. [4]
What are the negative effects of MSM supplements?
Common adverse effects associated with MSM consist of:.
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Nausea
Other side results include:.
- Swelling
- Tiredness
- Trouble focusing
- Insomnia
- Headache [5]
The long-lasting safety of methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is not popular, however MSM is most likely safe to consider as much as 6 months. [6]
How to avoid side effect when taking MSM
1. Start slowly
Start with any new supplement it is generally a good idea to start with a small dosage and increase your dosage slowly so that you can watch for adverse effects and examination how the supplement is working for you. You can even start with 1/2 or 1/4 or the maker’s recommended dosage.
2. Inspect labels
Try to find added components in your supplement. Sometimes the components included the processing of supplements is the true offender in adverse effects.
3. Use a quality brand
Utilize a brand name that was advised to you by someone you know, or your natural health professional.
4. Take MSM early in the day
Do not take MSM late in the day or at bedtime to prevent the adverse effects of sleeping disorders.
5. Take MSM with food
When you initially start taking MSM, it is a good idea to take it with food. It is more typical to have side 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 likewise have trouble with MSM, so if you have reactions to sulfa drugs, you MSM may not be the best option for you.
People with mood disorders appear to be most likely to have serious mental side effects like stress and anxiety and depression.
If you have mild to severe nutritional shortages, MSM could exacerbate that issue. MSM can diminish molybdenum, an essential trace mineral.
Individuals who take prescription or over the counter medications on a regular basis might find that MSM affects the way their medications work.
Those whose bodies are badly hazardous or sick are at higher threat for detox responses and side effects. It may not be that MSM is the issue, however if it gets rid of undesirable metals or parasites from your body when you take it, your body might feel quite ill throughout the detox process.
If MSM causes side effects for you, or appears incompatible with your situation, do not lose heart. There are lots of terrific natural remedies 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 expert. Do not take this supplement more frequently than directed.
Speak to your pediatrician relating to making use of this supplement in children. Special care might be required.
Overdosage: if you believe you have taken excessive of this medication contact a toxin nerve center or emergency room at once.
What if I miss out on a dosage?
If you miss out on a dose, take it as quickly as you can. If it is nearly time for your next dosage, take just that dose. Do not take double or additional doses.
What may engage with this medicine?
Talk to your medical professional or health care professional if you are taking any of the following medications:.
- Diflunisal
- Medicines that treat or avoid embolism like aspirin, dalteparin, enoxaparin, ticlopidine, warfarin
- Nsaids, medicines for discomfort and inflammation, like ibuprofen or naproxen
- Other organic supplements
This list may not describe all possible interactions. Provide your healthcare service provider a list of all the medications, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you utilize. Likewise tell them if you smoke, consume alcohol, or utilize controlled substances. Some items might connect with your medicine.
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
See your doctor if your signs do not improve or if they get worse.
If you are set up for any medical or oral procedure, tell your doctor that you are taking this supplement. You may need to stop taking this supplement prior to the procedure.
Organic or dietary supplements are not controlled like medications. Rigid quality control requirements are not required for dietary supplements. The purity and strength of these products can differ. The safety and effect of this dietary supplement for a certain disease or disease is not well known. This item is not meant to diagnose, treat, cure or avoid any disease.
The food and drug administration suggests the following to assist consumers safeguard themselves:
- Constantly check out item labels and follow instructions.
- Natural does not imply an item is safe for humans to take.
- Try to find items that consist of usp after the active ingredient name. This implies that the maker followed the standards of the us pharmacopoeia.
- Supplements made or sold by a nationally known food or drug company are more likely to be made under tight controls. You can write to the company for additional information about how the product was made. [8]
Keep in mind
MSM has most often been used by grownups in doses of 1-6 grams by mouth daily for approximately 16 weeks. [9]
Unique safety measures and warnings
Pregnancy and breast-feeding: there isn’t adequate trusted information to understand if MSM is safe to use when pregnant or breast feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid usage.
Varicose veins and other circulatory issues (chronic venous deficiency): using a lotion which contains MSM to the lower limbs can increase swelling and discomfort in individuals with varicose veins and other circulatory problems. [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
