Table of Contents
Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is a chemical found in green plants, animals, and humans. It can also be made in a lab. MSM has actually become popular because of the book the wonder of MSM: the natural solution for pain. But there is little published clinical research to support its use. Contrary to some literature that promotes MSM, there is no advised dietary allowance (rda) for MSM or sulfur, which is in MSM. Sulfur shortage has not been explained in the medical literature.
Individuals take MSM by mouth and use it to the skin for persistent pain, osteoarthritis, joint inflammation, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoporosis, inflammation around the joints (bursitis), tendinitis, swelling around the tendons (tenosynovitis), musculoskeletal pain, muscle cramps, solidified skin problem called scleroderma, scar tissue, stretch marks, loss of hair, wrinkles, protection against sun/wind burn, eye inflammation, oral health, gum disease, wounds, cuts, and abrasions/accelerated wound recovery.
People likewise take MSM by mouth for relief of allergic reactions, chronic constipation, “sour stomach”, ulcers, a bowel illness called diverticulosis, premenstrual syndrome (pms), mood elevation, weight problems, bad flow, hypertension, and high cholesterol. It is also taken by mouth for type 2 diabetes, liver problems, alzheimer’s disease, to manage snoring, lung disorders including emphysema and pneumonia, fatigue syndrome, autoimmune disorders (systemic lupus erythematous), hiv infection and aids, and cancer (breast cancer and colon cancer).
MSM is likewise taken by mouth for eye inflammation, mucous membrane inflammation, temporomandibular joint (tmj) problems, 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
The majority of research study on MSM involves animal studies. MSM has been recommended for use 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 typical oxidation product of dimethyl sulfoxide (dmso). Unlike dmso, MSM is odor totally free and is a dietary element. MSM has actually been described 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 odor and skin inflammation complications.
Pharmacology
The sulfur material of MSM can be used by the body to maintain typical connective tissues. MSM has actually likewise displayed possible anti-inflammatory, antiatherosclerotic, and chemopreventative activities together with complimentary extreme scavenging. MSM has actually been reported to ease allergic reactions, arthritis, gi upset, musculoskeletal pain, and to improve the immune system. It also has antimicrobial results against organisms such as giardia lamblia, trichomonas vaginalis, and some fungis. The suggested system is that MSM may bind to surface receptor sites, obstructing the interaction of parasite and host. [2]
Dietary sources of MSM
It’s not hard to get MSM via your diet. MSM is naturally found in:.
- Fresh vegetables and fruits
- Milk
- Fish
- Grains
This doesn’t always suggest you’re getting a lot through your diet plan, however. As foods are processed, MSM is damaged. You may have the ability to increase the amount you get in food by focusing on fresh whole foods.
Natural vs. Developed MSM
While MSM exists in nature, the form that’s marketed as a supplement is a chemical compound originated from dmso (dimethyl sulfoxide).
Dmso is offered in an industrial grade and a medical-grade. Dmso was promoted as a miracle treatment for arthritis in the 1960s however became questionable because of potential issues and undesirable negative effects. As dmso faded from use as an arthritis treatment, MSM gained momentum.
Kinds of MSM
MSM is mostly sold non-prescription as an oral solution (option, tablets, or pills). 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 solutions include lots of other supplements, too.
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 just lowers inflammation, but it likewise safeguards your cartilage from deterioration, such as that seen in osteoarthritis, by reducing interleukin 1-beta (il-1b) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (tnf-a), according to an evaluation of literature published in 2017.
The result of decreased inflammation and cartilage preservation is an improved series of movement and physical function.
MSM can likewise decrease exercise-related muscle damage, particularly when taken prior to difficult resistance or endurance workouts, the evaluation states. This is believed to be due to its antioxidant effects. [3]
8 science-backed advantages of MSM supplements
Methylsulfonylmethane, more frequently called MSM, is a popular dietary supplement utilized to treat a broad range of signs and conditions.
It’s a sulfur-containing substance found naturally in plants, animals and humans. It can likewise be produced in a laboratory to produce dietary supplements in powder or capsule kind.
MSM is widely utilized in the alternative medicine field and by people trying to find a natural method to alleviate joint pain, lower inflammation and boost immunity.
In addition, research supports its usage in dealing with a variety of conditions from arthritis to rosacea.
Here are 8 science-backed health advantages of MSM.
Can reduce joint discomfort, which might improve your lifestyle
One of the most popular uses of MSM is to decrease joint or muscle discomfort.
It has been revealed to benefit those with joint degeneration, a common reason for discomfort in the knees, back, hands and hips.
Joint degeneration can negatively affect your quality of life by restricting your motion and mobility.
Research studies have revealed that MSM significantly decreases inflammation in your body. It also prevents the breakdown of cartilage, a versatile tissue that protects completions of your bones in joints.
A research study in 100 individuals over the age of 50 found that treatment with a supplement containing 1,200 mg of MSM for 12 weeks reduced pain, stiffness and swelling in the joints, compared to a placebo.
The group getting the supplement also reported enhanced total quality of life and less problem walking and getting out of bed.
Another study in 32 individuals with lower neck and back pain found that taking a glucosamine supplement including MSM substantially minimized back stiffness and pain upon motion, plus greatly increased lifestyle.
Summary
Studies have revealed that MSM works in reducing joint discomfort, stiffness and swelling. In doing so, it can improve your lifestyle.
Has anti-inflammatory effects, such as increasing glutathione levels
The anti-inflammatory properties of MSM are well recorded by clinical research study.
It’s believed that MSM prevents nf-kb, a protein complex involved in inflammatory actions in your body.
It likewise decreases the production of cytokines such as tumor necrosis aspect alpha (tnf-É‘) and interleukin 6 (il-6), which are signaling proteins linked to systemic inflammation.
Additionally, MSM can increase levels of glutathione, a powerful anti-oxidant produced by your body.
For instance, supplementing with MSM considerably lowered inflammation in mice with stomach ulcers by inhibiting the release of inflammatory cytokines including tnf-É‘ and il-6, as well as increasing glutathione levels.
Another research study in 40 physically active men revealed that taking 3 grams of MSM before extensive workout reduced the release of inflammatory cytokines and prevented the over-stress of immune cells, compared to a placebo.
Summary
MSM may minimize the release of particles connected with inflammation, such as tnf-É‘ and il-6, in addition to boost levels of the powerful antioxidant glutathione.
Can speed healing after workout by minimizing muscle damage and stress
Throughout exhaustive exercise, muscle damage takes place and oxidative stress boosts.
This triggers athletes to experience muscle discomfort and discomfort, which can prevent athletic efficiency and training.
MSM can naturally speed muscle healing after intense workout by decreasing swelling and oxidative tension.
A research study in 18 guys showed that taking 50 mg of MSM powder per kg of body weight for 10 days substantially reduced exercise-induced muscle damage and increased antioxidant activity following an 8.7 mile (14 km) run.
It may likewise be advantageous for minimizing discomfort after prolonged workout.
In one research study, 22 healthy women got 3 grams of MSM or a placebo per day for 3 weeks leading up to a half marathon. The MSM group reported less muscle discomfort and joint discomfort than the placebo group.
Another research study found that athletic men taking 3 grams of MSM daily for two weeks had lower levels of il-6 and less muscle pain after intense resistance exercise.
Summary
MSM may help reduce pain, muscle damage and oxidative tension after extreme workout, assisting you recover quicker.
Assists relieve arthritis symptoms by decreasing pain and stiffness
Arthritis is a common inflammatory condition that triggers discomfort, tightness and a minimized variety of movement in your joints.
Given that MSM has effective anti-inflammatory residential or commercial properties, it’s typically utilized as a natural alternative to medications to improve arthritis-related symptoms.
A research study in 49 people with knee osteoarthritis found that taking 3.4 grams of MSM each day for 12 weeks lowered discomfort and tightness and improved physical function, compared to a placebo.
In addition, it can enhance the efficiency of other common supplements utilized to treat arthritis such as glucosamine sulfate, chondroitin sulfate and boswellic acid.
One study found that combining MSM with glucosamine and chondroitin was more reliable at reducing pain 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 effective than glucosamine at reducing discomfort and enhancing function in people with knee osteoarthritis.
What’s more, the people who got the MSM and boswellic acid supplement were less dependent on anti-inflammatory medications than the glucosamine group.
Summary
MSM supplements have actually been revealed to help reduce discomfort and stiffness in individuals with arthritis. They might likewise help improve physical function.
May help eliminate allergy symptoms by lowering inflammation
Hay fever is an allergy that triggers symptoms such as watery eyes, sneezing, itching, runny nose and nasal blockage.
Common triggers of hay fever consist of animal dander, pollen and molds.
After direct exposure to an irritant, numerous inflammatory compounds such as prostaglandins and cytokines are launched, which results in unpleasant signs.
Research studies have shown that MSM may work in decreasing symptoms of hay fever.
It might decrease allergic reactions by lowering swelling and hindering the release of cytokines and prostaglandins.
A research study in 50 individuals with allergic rhinitis found that a dose of 2,600 mg of MSM each day over one month reduced symptoms including itching, congestion, shortness of breath, sneezing and coughing.
In addition, participants experienced a substantial increase in energy by day 14.
Summary
MSM may help reduce allergy-related signs– consisting of coughing, shortness of breath, congestion, sneezing and tiredness– by minimizing swelling.
Can improve resistance and help you stay healthy
Your immune system is a specific network of tissues, cells and organs that protects your body versus illness and disease.
It can be weakened by things like tension, health problem, a bad diet plan, inadequate sleep or lack of activity.
Sulfur substances such as MSM play crucial roles in the health of your immune system.
For instance, MSM may work in lowering oxidative tension and inflammation that can damage immunity. Since it’s effective in reducing levels of inflammatory compounds like il-6 and tnf-É‘, MSM may decrease stress on your immune system.
Additionally, it plays a part in the creation of glutathione, your body’s master anti-oxidant. It might likewise help increase levels of this important compound.
Having sufficient levels of glutathione is essential for the total health and function of your body immune system.
A test-tube research study revealed that MSM successfully restored glutathione levels and decreased inflammatory markers in mouse cells that had actually been weakened with hiv proteins.
Summary
MSM might assist enhance your body immune system by minimizing swelling and increasing glutathione levels.
Could improve skin health by strengthening keratin
Keratin is a protein that serves as the primary structural component in your hair, skin and nails.
It includes high levels of the sulfur-containing amino acid cysteine. That’s why burnt hair gives off a particular sulfurous odor.
MSM may be useful for skin health by acting as a sulfur donor to keratin. This, in turn, can help enhance this essential protein.
MSM likewise helps in reducing inflammation, which can harm skin cells and cause indications of premature aging like wrinkles.
It may even decrease symptoms of troublesome skin problem such as rosacea, which can cause soreness, inflammation and inflammation of the skin.
One research study showed that, when applied to the skin, MSM considerably enhanced redness, itching, swelling, hydration and skin color in individuals with rosacea.
Summary
MSM may improve skin health by strengthening keratin and reducing swelling. It could even help in reducing signs of specific skin conditions, too.
Might have cancer-fighting residential or commercial properties
One of the newest areas of research including MSM is studying its effectiveness in fighting cancer cells. Although the research study is limited, the results have been assuring up until now.
A number of test-tube research studies have actually revealed that MSM hinders the development 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 also appears to prevent the spread of cancer cells, also referred to as transition.
A research study in mice with liver cancer revealed that those injected with MSM had less growths, smaller sized growth size and less liver damage than those who did not get the treatment.
Another mouse study demonstrated that MSM hindered the growth of human breast cancer cells.
Although these outcomes are encouraging, more research study is required to figure out the safety and efficacy of using MSM in cancer treatment.
Summary
Research study has shown that MSM exhibits cancer-fighting residential or commercial properties in test-tube and animal research studies, however more research study is needed. [4]
What are the side effects of MSM supplements?
Typical negative effects related to MSM include:.
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal discomfort
- Queasiness
Other side impacts include:.
- Swelling
- Fatigue
- Trouble focusing
- Insomnia
- Headache [5]
The long-lasting security of methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is not well known, but MSM is most likely safe to take for as much as 6 months. [6]
How to avoid side effect when taking MSM
1. Start gradually
Start with any new supplement it is generally a great idea to start with a little dosage and increase your dosage slowly so that you can watch for negative effects and assessment how the supplement is working for you. You can even start with 1/2 or 1/4 or the manufacturer’s advised dosage.
2. Examine labels
Look for added active ingredients in your supplement. In some cases the active ingredients included the processing of supplements is the true perpetrator in negative effects.
3. Use a quality brand
Use a brand that was suggested to you by somebody you understand, or your natural health professional.
4. Take MSM early in the day
Do not take MSM late in the day or at bedtime to avoid the negative effects of sleeping disorders.
5. Take MSM with food
When you initially begin taking MSM, it is a good idea to take it with food. It is more common to have side effects from new supplements when you take them on an empty stomach.
MSM: is it for everybody?
Some who have responses to sulfa drugs likewise have difficulty with MSM, so if you have responses to sulfa drugs, you MSM may not be the very best option for you.
People with mood disorders seem to be more likely to have severe mental side effects like stress and anxiety and anxiety.
If you have mild to severe dietary deficiencies, MSM might exacerbate that problem. MSM can deplete molybdenum, an important trace mineral.
People who take prescription or over the counter medications regularly might find that MSM impacts the way their medications work.
Those whose bodies are severely toxic or sick are at greater danger for detox reactions and adverse effects. It may not be that MSM is the issue, but if it eliminates unwanted metals or parasites from your body when you take it, your body might feel quite ill during the detox procedure.
If MSM triggers side effects for you, or appears incompatible with your scenario, do not lose heart. There are numerous terrific natural solutions to think about in lieu of MSM. [7]
How should I use this medicine?
Take by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the instructions on the bundle labeling or ask your health care professional. Do not take this supplement regularly than directed.
Talk with your pediatrician concerning the use of this supplement in kids. Special care may be needed.
Overdosage: if you believe you have actually taken too much of this medication contact a poison control center or emergency clinic at once.
What if I miss out on a dose?
If you miss out on a dosage, take it as quickly as you can. If it is nearly time for your next dose, take just that dose. Do not take double or additional doses.
What may interact with this medication?
Contact your medical professional or healthcare professional if you are taking any of the following medications:.
- Diflunisal
- Medicines that treat or prevent blood clots like aspirin, dalteparin, enoxaparin, ticlopidine, warfarin
- Nsaids, medications for discomfort and inflammation, like ibuprofen or naproxen
- Other herbal supplements
This list might not describe all possible interactions. Provide your healthcare 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 illegal drugs. Some products might engage with your medication.
What should I expect while utilizing this medication?
See your physician if your signs do not get better or if they worsen.
If you are arranged for any medical or oral procedure, inform your healthcare provider that you are taking this supplement. You might need to stop taking this supplement before the treatment.
Herbal or dietary supplements are not managed like medicines. Stiff quality control requirements are not needed for dietary supplements. The pureness and strength of these products can differ. The security and effect of this dietary supplement for a specific disease or disease is not popular. This item is not meant to identify, deal with, cure or avoid any illness.
The food and drug administration recommends the following to assist customers protect themselves:
- Constantly check out product labels and follow instructions.
- Natural does not suggest a product is safe for human beings to take.
- Look for items that include usp after the active ingredient name. This implies that the manufacturer followed the standards of the us pharmacopoeia.
- Supplements made or offered by a nationally known food or drug business are more likely to be made under tight controls. You can write to the business for additional information about how the product was made. [8]
Note
MSM has actually frequently been utilized by adults in dosages of 1-6 grams by mouth daily for up to 16 weeks. [9]
Unique safety measures and warnings
Pregnancy and breast-feeding: there isn’t sufficient trusted info to know if MSM is safe to utilize when pregnant or breast feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid usage.
Varicose veins and other circulatory problems (chronic venous deficiency): using a cream which contains MSM to the lower limbs can increase swelling and discomfort in people with varicose veins and other circulatory issues. [10]
References
- 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
