MSM
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The benefits claimed far exceed the number of scientific studies. It is hard to build a strong case for its use other than for treating arthritis problems. |  |
We speculate that if you do not have enough sulfur, then your health condition (such as arthritis) might be worsened. Then, taking MSM could be very helpful indeed. On the other hand, if your body has enough sulfur, then taking this supplement might not improve the condition.
Anecdotal reports suggest that sulfur can promote growth of hair, nails and skin. It is also reported to prevent or reduce hair loss. Sulfur is often referred to as the "beauty mineral".
Table of Contents
Facts
about MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane)
Suggested Benefits and Traditional Uses
Side Effects, Toxicity and Warnings
Dosage & How to Take It
Suggested Benefits and Traditional Uses
Side Effects, Toxicity and Warnings
Dosage & How to Take It
Evidence of Benefits (Leaf Rating System)
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Osteoarthritis / Arthritis
Some research studies show that it works to treat arthritis pain and swelling. It is often combined with glucosamine. |
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Hay fever (Allergic Rhinitis) One study showed that it helps with the symptoms of hay fever. This study is not well-designed, thus results are not as clear as we would like it to be. |
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Colon Cancer In animal studies, it seems to slow down the start of colon cancer. Unfortunately, no studies were done in humans to verify this benefit. |
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Cancer More research studies will be needed to show if it benefits other forms of cancer. In studies done in rats, it delayed the appearance of tumors. |
Facts about MSM
What is MSM?
It is a
naturally occurring chemical in the body and can be found
in dietary sources such as in some green plants, fruits, vegetables and
grains. It is a very good source of sulfur for the body. It is also
referred to as crystalline DMSO but don't confuse that with DMSO which is a difference
substance.
Sulfur is an important for our body as it is the sixth most abundant macro mineral in breast milk. As well, it is the third most abundant mineral in our body based on percentage body weight. It is also a component of two amino acids (which makes up proteins) cysteine and methionine.
Studies show MSM to have a natural anti-inflammatory effect and is believed to slow down osteoarthritis (in animal studies). It contains sulfur, a very important mineral for the formation of the cartilage.
Sulfur is an important for our body as it is the sixth most abundant macro mineral in breast milk. As well, it is the third most abundant mineral in our body based on percentage body weight. It is also a component of two amino acids (which makes up proteins) cysteine and methionine.
Studies show MSM to have a natural anti-inflammatory effect and is believed to slow down osteoarthritis (in animal studies). It contains sulfur, a very important mineral for the formation of the cartilage.
When did it become popular?
The
health benefits of methylsulfonylmethane were first popularized by the
book "The Miracle
of MSM - The Natural Solutions for Pain" by Dr. Stanley W.
Jacob. This would be good news for
those looking for a cure for arthritis. However, there isn't as much
scientific studies done as we like to see.
Suggested Benefits and Traditional Uses
Orally
- acne
- aging skin
- Alzheimer's disease / dementia
- arthritis
- asthma
- athletic/sport injuries
- auto-immune diseases (such as lupus)
- back pain
- breast cancer
- bursitis
- candida (yeast) infection
- carpal tunnel syndrome
- colon cancer
- constipation
- dental/teeth pain
- diabetes
- eye inflammation
- fibromyalgia / nerve pain
- food allergies
- hair growth/loss
- headache
- heartburn and hyperacidity
- high cholesterol
- HIV infection and AIDS
- hypertension (high blood pressure)
- inflammation (generalized)
- interstitial cystitis
- joint pain
- joint stiffness
- leg cramps
- liver disease
- migraines
- muscle cramps
- muscle pain
- nail health
- obesity
- osteoarthritis
- osteoporosis
- premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
- scar tissues
- sinusitis
- skin conditions (such as eczema)
- snoring
- stomach ulcers
- stretch marks
- temporomandibular joint syndrome (TMJ)
- tendonitis
- wrinkles
Topically (on the skin)
- arthritis
- bursitis
- joint pain
- tendonitis
- wrinkles
Side Effects, Toxicity and Warnings
Side Effects
include stomach related complaints such as diarrhea, nausea, stomach
cramps, bloating, gas, insomnia and tiredness.
These side effects were mild and were no more common than those report by those taking a placebo (sugar pill).
Safety - Research studies show that it is safe to use. Dosages up to 6 grams daily have been used safely in human studies.
These side effects were mild and were no more common than those report by those taking a placebo (sugar pill).
Safety - Research studies show that it is safe to use. Dosages up to 6 grams daily have been used safely in human studies.
Dosage & How to Take It
This supplement
comes in capsules, tablets, liquid, softgels and powder
format often in
combination with glucosamine and/or chondroitin.
The typical dosage used for treating arthritis is 500 mg taken three times daily.
Dosages of up to 3 grams taken twice daily were also used.
Topically, it is available as a cream, gel or lotion. It is commonly combined with glucosamine, chondroitin, Celadrin, menthol and/or camphor.
The typical dosage used for treating arthritis is 500 mg taken three times daily.
Dosages of up to 3 grams taken twice daily were also used.
Topically, it is available as a cream, gel or lotion. It is commonly combined with glucosamine, chondroitin, Celadrin, menthol and/or camphor.
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