What is it? 

Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is a metabolite of dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO). DMSO is a well-known solvent which is often used topically for its analgesic (pain-killing) and anti-inflammatory properties. The role of MSM as a dietary supplement is as a sulfur donor.

• Relief of arthritis pain and stiffness
• Increases growth hormone synthesis
• Stimulation of immune function
• Support of connective tissue integrity (hair, nails, skin)

MSM, which is about one-third sulfur, acts as a dietary source of sulfur. Sulfur is involved in a wide variety of metabolic pathways and plays an important structural role in amino acid and protein metabolism. Sulfur is required for proper synthesis and maintenance of connective tissues such as skin, hair, nails, tendons and cartilage. Many supplements claim MSM to be a dietary treatment for osteoarthritis based on the presence of sulfur in connective tissues such as collagen (collagen comprises nearly three quarters of the solid portion of cartilage).

 Several small animal studies have suggested that MSM may play a role in resistance to stress and stimulation of immune system responses. Doses in the range of 1-5mg/kg/d (approximately 70-350mg for an average-sized man) over a period of 2-4 weeks appear to stimulate synthesis of immunoglobulins (in mice and chickens). In horses, larger doses (2.5-10 grams per day) have been associated with improvements in hoof quality.

The best news about MSM is that it can be considered very safe when used as a dietary supplement. In rats and dogs, toxic effects are reported only for extremely high doses – which would correspond to well over 200 grams per day for an average-sized man (about 8 ounces of the stuff!).

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