Supplement and Herb Guide for Arthritis Symptoms. The treatment group had significant reductions in anti-inflammatory drug use compared with baseline at 2 and 6 months, and these differences were also significantly lower than the placebo group.Notarnicola 2011, Tumor onset in colon cancerinduced rats was markedly delayed in animals receiving MSM supplementation versus controls, suggesting a chemopreventative effect.O'Dwyer 1988 Four percent receiving MSM had a similar delaying effect on rat mammary breast cancer.McCabe 1986, MSM showed no effect in preventing diabetes when tested in spontaneously diabetic mice compared with DMSO or dimethylsulfide.Klandorf 1989. Kalman, D. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, Sept. 27, 2012; vol 9: p 46. Many people choose to take supplements to support their joints and manage joint pain. Who Can Use It? It has been shown to benefit those with joint degeneration, a common cause of pain in the knees, back, hands and hips. According to the Arthritis Foundation, based on the most reputable studies conducted so far on this supplement such as a 2006 pilot study that analyzed the effects of 6,000 milligrams of MSM taken daily by patients with osteoarthritis it effectively helps improve symptoms of pain and physical function without any major side effects. Glucosamine supplements are popular but controversial. Its also useful for helping treat leaky gut syndromesince it can help stop particles from leaching out the gut through small junction openings, where they can enter the bloodstream and ignite an inflammatory response. For most cases of inflammatory conditions or joint pain, the prescribed dose ranges from 2-6 grams per day, usually divided into three different dosages per day. MSM also helps reduce inflammation, which can damage skin cells and cause signs of premature aging like wrinkles (21). . MSM is often used by people looking for a natural way to relieve joint pain, reduce inflammation, and boost immunity. Side effects. Whats more, the people who received the MSM and boswellic acid supplement were less dependent on anti-inflammatory medications than the glucosamine group (14). With the exception of certain products that are generally recognized as safe in normal quantities, including use of folic acid and prenatal vitamins during pregnancy, this product has not been sufficiently studied to determine whether it is safe to use during pregnancy or nursing or by persons younger than 2 years of age. Numerous toxicity studies have been done to assess the safety of MSM and doses up to 4,845.6 mg per day (4.8 grams) appear to be safe (32). Some supplements can have powerful effects. Benefits of calamansi juice include bleaching the skin, detoxifying the body, aiding in weight loss & managing diabetes. MSM also supports the immune system and the bodys ability to repair connective tissue. Sulfur is needed for many different critical bodily functions every single day, and MSM is considered a sulfur donor. During exhaustive exercise, muscle damage occurs and oxidative stress increases (8). ", Natural Medicine Journal: Effects of Oral Supplementation With Methylsulfonylmethane on Skin Health and Wrinkle Reduction., Osteoarthritis and Cartilage: Efficacy of methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) in osteoarthritis pain of the knee: a pilot clinical trial.. Many skin creams contain MSM, which promises that this compound will reduce the appearance of wrinkles when applied topically. Read more! Table of contents: What is MSM? 1 This effect of MSM is useful in reducing the tissue swelling that damages the optic nerve, causes eye soreness of dry eyes and Sjogrens syndrome and other inflammatory-related cond. Clinical research shows MSM can modestly reduce some symptoms of osteoarthritis like pain and swelling and improve joint function or physical function. MSM may be worth trying for those looking for a natural alternative for arthritis pain, post-exercise soreness, seasonal allergies, or rosacea. Ever hear of adaptogen herbs or supplements that help control how the body deals with stress? Joint degeneration can negatively impact your quality of life by limiting your movement and mobility. Topical sulfur has natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Some studies have also found that MSM may work better than glucosamine, if you choose to only take one of these. The cream also contained silymarin or milk thistle. The many benefits of methylsulfonylmethane include its ability to reduce osteoarthritis pain, skin care, improve digestive health, and speed the healing process, among others. Some small studies show that MSM may be useful for treating several different medical conditions. Here are 10 of the best ways to increase your glutathione levels naturally. Which are the best forms of MSM. To increase transparency to the user, we provide reference links marked by numbers in parentheses in the copy of the article. Osteoarthritis One of the main benefits of this dietary supplement is to relieve inflammation throughout the body. Compared to subjects receiving a placebo, the treatment group reported a significant decrease in pain and improvement in physical function. One study showed that, when applied to the skin, MSM significantly improved redness, itching, inflammation, hydration and skin color in people with rosacea (22). It helps repair the rigid fibrous tissue cells in our muscles that become broken down during exercise, therefore helping prevent them from swelling for prolong periods of time. Complete symptom resolution occurred within 4 days of discontinuing the most recently added 3 supplements.Hwang 2015, No important toxicity was noted in animal studies.Horvth 2002, McCabe 1986, O'Dwyer 1988. This includes obesity and liver problems, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, gum disease, snoring, infections, lung problems, Alzheimer's, HIV, and cancer. The combination of glucosamine and methylsulfonylmethane showed statistically significant decreases in pain and swelling compared with either single treatment alone. The evidence to support taking MSM for these is lacking. Home > Ingredients MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane): What Is It, What Are Its Uses And Side Effects? MSM benefits include: treating osteoarthritis and joint pain; improving digestive problems like leaky gut syndrome; repairing skins and treating skin problems like rosacea, allergies and wounds; lowering muscle pain and spasms; restoring hair growth and helping the body adapt to stress. The recommended therapeutic dosage for dogs is about 50 to 100 mg MSM per 10 pounds of body weight. Her medical history was positive for systemic lupus erythematosus treated with prednisone, azathioprine, and hydroxychloroquine for the past year. The many benefits of methylsulfonylmethane include its ability to reduce osteoarthritis pain, skin care, improve digestive health, and speed the healing process, among others. The primary uses for MSM supplements include arthritis, joint pain, muscle recovery after exercise, and allergy relief. Its believed that MSM inhibits NF-kB, a protein complex involved in inflammatory responses in your body (4). This product may be unsafe when used before surgery or other medical procedures. The excess can be blotted out gently using a tissue. This organic compound is made synthetically and often combined with glucosamine hydrochloride and chondroitin sulfate. PMCID: PMC5372953 DOI: 10.3390/nu9030290 Abstract Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) has become a popular dietary supplement used for a variety of purposes, including its most common use as an anti-inflammatory agent. Your body uses sulfur to: Create essential amino acids like cysteine, glutathione, and methionine 2. While there are antioxidant and anti-inflammatorycompounds in many foods, such as garlic, onions, cruciferous vegetables, eggs, seeds, and other protein sources, some people are still deficient in some of the most powerful sulfuric compounds available to us. MSM supplementation appears to benefit skin health, primarily the reduction of fine lines and wrinkles. Gel, lotion or cream versions can be applied to the skin to help treat conditions like skin irritation such as rosacea, allergic reactions, varicose veins and hemorrhoids. However, no studies have explored this potentially problematic combination yet. In one study, participants took 2,600 milligrams per day of MSM for 30 days, and researchers took measurements during and after treatment. Some products may not mix well with drugs or other natural products. are clickable links to these studies. Porter, S. E., Jr. (2019). What is MSM? If you are recommended to use MSM supplements, it is important to only use the prescribed amount. For example, research suggests that MSM benefits include improving immune function, lowering chronic inflammation and helping to restore healthy bodily tissue. Although the research is limited, the results have been promising so far. How does MSM stop muscle pain and damage? Additionally, MSM can increase levels of glutathione, a potent antioxidant produced by your body. Seasonal allergies are becoming more prevalent, and millions of Americans rely on antihistamines to manage their symptoms. They took MSM supplements and reported improvement in their arthritis symptoms and better performance in daily activities than those who took a placebo. MSM appears to be safe and studies report only minimal side effects. Studies have shown that MSM significantly reduces inflammation in your body. Would you be interested? This helps keep us hydrated and lowers inflammation, which is the root of most diseases. Usually, 500 milligrams of MSM, taken two to three times daily, is the starting dose recommended for treating osteoarthritis. In dietary supplement form its often used in conjunction with other ingredients that support joint health and connective tissue healing including dimethyl sulfide and sulfone DMSO, glucosamine, chondroitin, and boswellic acid. http://www.oarsijournal.com/article/S1063-4584(05)00285-2/abstract, https://link.springer.com/article/10.2165/00044011-200424060-00005, https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0041008X11001116, http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/9/3/290/htm, http://online.liebertpub.com/doi/abs/10.1089/107555302317371451, http://cellvitamin.webmoa21.co.kr/down/shanmugametal.pdf, https://journals.humankinetics.com/doi/abs/10.1123/ijsnem.2017-0267, 12 Proven Health Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar, Hibiscus Tea: Benefits, How to Make & Side Effects, Calamansi Juice: Benefits, Recipe, and Side Effects, Pomelos: Benefits & How To Eat Them (Pummelo). MSM might supply sulfur to make other chemicals in the body. April 2, 2012; vol 7: p e33361. Also, early animal research shows some promise for decreasing joint degeneration. However, the energy demands of exercise can cause oxidative stress to muscles and tissues. It's also believed to protect cartilage. Don't take any chances if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. In a double-blind study, people who took a daily dose of 3 g of MSM had reductions of more than 50% in their allergy symptoms. Since MSM has powerful anti-inflammatory properties, its often used as a natural alternative to medications to improve arthritis-related symptoms. Some research shows that applying topical cream containing MSM and silymarin helps lower inflammation contributing torosacea, skin discoloration, allergies or slow wound healing. Can diet and exercise reverse prediabetes? 1. MSM can help rebuild the lining of the digestive tract and lower inflammatory responses in response to allergic reactions to certain foods. It is important to fully inform your doctor about the herbal, vitamins, mineral or any other supplements you are taking before any kind of surgery or medical procedure. Formally known asMethylsulfonylmethane, MSM is an organosulfur compound that is chemically inert but can be found in various foods and beverages. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Average rating 3.6 out of 5.0 based on 7 user(s). How much MSM do you need or should youuse? MSM stands for methylsulfonylmethane. The primary outcome was the reduction of pain intensity assessed by a visual analogue scale (VAS). Learn about the benefits and risks of, Medical News Today has strict sourcing guidelines and draws only from peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical journals and associations. It also inhibits the breakdown of cartilage, a flexible tissue that protects the ends of your bones in joints (1). Using an MSM supplement helps us hold on to preciouscollagenandkeratin because sulfur is required for the production of these youthful compounds. The results show people who took the MSM supplement for 12 weeks experienced improvements in joint pain, stiffness, and swelling compared with those taking placebo medication. MSM is not sulfur in itself. MSM may be beneficial for joint pain, skin inflammation, and other conditions. Sulfur needs to be present for our cells to release many byproducts and excess fluids that can accumulate and cause swelling/tenderness. Several clinical trials have proven MSM to be well tolerated with few side effects. Metabolize foods. Introduction Here are 10 supplements that can reduce inflammation, backed by science. The first report evaluating developmental toxicity of MSM in a mammalian model was published in 2007.Magnuson 2007 Pregnant Sprague-Dawley rats were given MSM up to 1,000 mg/kg/day orally for 14 days during gestation. Applying a gel containing MSM along with tea tree oil can reduce pain and swelling caused by hemorrhoids (swollen blood vessels of the rectum that make it hard to go to the bathroom without pain or bleeding). MSM was theorized to be beneficial in rosacea due to strong photoprotective action along with antioxidant effects and desensitization of the skin to potential allergens. Some of the most common uses for MSM include treating: Three uses that MSM has gained the most notoriety for include: acting like an anti-atherosclerotic (preventing the hardening/thickening of arteries), chemo-preventative compound and natural anti-inflammatory. A clinical trial testing the effects of MSM supplements on joint pain in 118 patients with osteoarthritis (such as with the knee) found that compared to a placebo, MSM supplements taken over 12 weeks resulted in more improvements in pain, swelling and joint mobility. MSM may help reduce allergy-related symptoms including coughing, shortness of breath, congestion, sneezing and fatigue by reducing inflammation. One of the most notable attributes of MSM supplements is that they help accelerate healing and detox the body by improving how chemicals enter and leave our cells. That suggests that MSM especially when combined with glucosamine and chondroitin an excellent natural treatment for arthritis. Topical MSM showed benefit in combination with silymarin to treat rosacea in 46 patients.Berardesca 2008 A statistically significant decrease in erythema, papules, and itch intensity occurred. Its a supplement that stands for methylsulfonylmethane (or dimethylsulfone or DMSO2). If youre pregnant, youll want to speak with a doctor before taking it regularly. (n.d.). Taking more MSM than directed does not appear to provide better results. Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is a sulfur-containing compound found in plants, animals, and humans. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, 6-month trial (n = 60) evaluated the benefit of methylsulfonylmethane 5 g/day plus boswellic acids 7.2 mg/day for knee OA diagnosed by ACR criteria, with grade 3 Kellgren andLawrenceradiographic staging. MSM supplementation is generally recognized as safe. Athletes, and particularly runners, often have to interrupt their training regimen because of muscle and joint pain that requires rest or treatment. The photographic analysis showed that the treatment group saw significant improvement in the appearance of crows feet and overall facial wrinkling. Another group of researchers gave the treatment group 3 grams, two times a day, for 12 weeks. Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is a chemical found in green plants, animals, and humans. With all of MSM's potential benefits, it's important to understand how much MSM to take and the best ways to add MSM to your diet. Images are provided by Shutterstock & our contributors. A study in 50 people with allergic rhinitis found that a dose of 2,600 mg of MSM per day over 30 days reduced symptoms including itching, congestion, shortness of breath, sneezing and coughing (17). MSM stands for methylsulfonylmethane. That way, they can check on any potential side effects or interactions with medications, foods, or other herbs and supplements. Its called the miracle supplement because its been shown to lower inflammation, fight the effects of stress and pain, raise immunity and increase energy. 1. MSM also appears to prevent the spread of cancer cells, also known as metastasis (29). What is this product used for? The FDA doesnt recognize a recommended dietary allowance for an MSM supplement or for sulfur (which it contains), because theres no proven symptoms of sulfur deficiency described in medical literature as of now. Having adequate levels of glutathione is crucial for the overall health and function of your immune system (19). The group receiving the supplement also reported improved overall quality of life and less difficulty walking and getting out of bed (2). He co-founded the literary journal, Sheriff Nottingham, and now serves as the Content Director for Staind Arts, a non-profit based in Denver, Colorado. Research has shown that MSM exhibits cancer-fighting properties in test-tube and animal studies, but more research is needed. BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Efficacy of methylsulfonylmethane supplementation on osteoarthritis of the knee: a randomized controlled study., Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine: A multicentered, open-label trial on the safety and efficacy of methylsulfonylmethane in the treatment of seasonal allergic rhinitis., Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition: Effects of Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) on exercise-induced oxidative stress, muscle damage, and pain following a half-marathon: a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial., Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database: "MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane). Drugs.com provides accurate and independent information on more than 24,000 prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines and natural products. Note that the numbers in parentheses (1, 2, etc.) Your doctor can let you know if the supplement might raise your risks. Nasal allergies can cause sneezing, itching, watery eyes, and coughing when a person has exposure to an allergen, such as pollen, dust, animal dander, or mold. A 10-day course of MSM also has been evaluated in 13 horses with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and no changes occurred in parameters, such as lung sounds, respiratory rate, heart rate, temperature, nasal discharge, or arterial blood gas.Traub-Dargatz 1992 However, MSM exerted some protective effects on oxidative and inflammatory exercise-induced injury in 24 jumping horses when given daily for 6 weeks before and during competition.Maran 2008, MSM commonly is given as 2 to 6 g/day in 2 to 3 divided doses for arthritis and other joint conditions. Taking good care of your skin as you age is important, from paying attention to moisture and hydration to wearing sunscreen regularly to avoid damage. This is the same sulfur that exists naturally in the body, as well as in vegetables, fruits, grains, and meats. This, in turn, can help strengthen this important protein. For example, research suggests that MSM benefits include improving immune function, lowering chronic inflammation and helping to restore healthy bodily tissue. 10 Natural Ways to Increase Your Glutathione Levels, Sarsaparilla: Benefits, Risks, and Side Effects. This makes it hard to set a standard dose. This information does not endorse this product as safe, effective, or approved for treating any patient or health condition. MSM Helps Improve Joint Pain. This compound also comes in powder form as a commonly used supplement, and the recommended amount of this diluted powder is 1-2 teaspoons per day. Dates are sweet fruitsof the date palm tree. [7], Research has shown that this supplement is able to speed up the detoxifying powers of the body, which helps to speed the healing process by eliminating toxins and other unwanted compounds in the body, thus reducing the strain on the immune system. This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. If youre an athlete or exercise regularly, MSM could help support healing after intense training and performance sessions. For this reason, MSM is also known as dimethyl sulfone and methyl sulfone. The sulfur content of MSM can be used by the body to maintain normal connective tissues. A trial (n = 89) on the effects of the oral combination product AR7, which includes sternum collagen II, methylsulfonylmethane, cetyl myristoleate, lipase, vitamin C, and bromelain, was conducted in osteoarthritis.Xie 2008 A decrease in the percentage of patients reported to have pain, stiffness, and tenderness in the treatment group was found after 3 months. No conclusive data on adverse reactions with MSM have been reported, although suspected MSM-induced acute angle closure has been reported in 1 case study. Three uses that this supplement has gained the most notoriety for include: acting like an anti-atherosclerotic (preventing the hardening/thickening of arteries), chemo-preventative compound and natural anti-inflammatory. John Staughton is a traveling writer, editor, publisher and photographer with English and Integrative Biology degrees from the University of Illinois in Champaign-Urbana (USA). Note that the numbers in parentheses (1, 2, etc.) However, there is evidence that MSM in combination with other supplements may help a bit with the pain and swelling of knee osteoarthritis. Many benefits of MSM dietary supplements are attributed to its biologically active sulfur, which is the fourth most plentiful mineral in the human body. This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Research shows that many patients with arthritis, joint pain, stiffness, knee/back problems and a limited range of motion experience a reduction in symptoms and improved quality of life when taking an MSM supplement. Some people use MSM to treat gastrointestinal disorders like. Doctors don't know enough about the safety of MSM in these circumstances. By clicking Subscribe, I agree to the WebMD. For example, MSM may be effective in reducing oxidative stress and inflammation that can weaken immunity. People take MSM by mouth or apply it to the skin, mostly using it to lessen inflammation. In addition, a study in The Journal of Sports Medicine and Physical Fitness, in which it was found that only 10 days of MSM supplementation helped decrease muscle damage via its effect on antioxidant capacity. 4 Natural Supplements That Are as Powerful as Drugs, Anti-Inflammatory Foods to Eat: A Full List. Together they both seem to safely reduce inflammation and pain intensity without causing side effects for the majority of people. What are the uses of MSM. You can use baking soda, chalk, or dishwashing liquid to loosen the stain before a wash. 2023 Organic Information Services Pvt Ltd. All the information on this website is for education purpose only. Sulfur compounds such as MSM play important roles in the health of your immune system (18). Our team includes licensed nutritionists and dietitians, certified health education specialists, as well as certified strength and conditioning specialists, personal trainers and corrective exercise specialists. The sulfur content of MSM can be used by the body to maintain normal connective tissues. So it's best not to take it. A 2018 meta-analysis found that MSM may improve osteoarthritis symptoms in the short term, but its importance clinically was not clear. Dermatologists have long prescribed sulfur creams and washes to treat skin conditions, including rosacea and acne. Always check with your doctor before you use a natural product. Subscribe to Drugs.com newsletters for the latest medication news, new drug approvals, alerts and updates. MSM is best known for its effectiveness in easing the symptoms of osteoarthritis. A 12-week pilot, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial (n = 40) was conducted in patients with knee osteoarthritis, classified by American College of Rheumatology (ACR) criteria as functional class I, II, or III, for at least 3 months. Very small amounts of MSM can be found in: But the amounts in these foods are a small fraction of the amount in supplements. This article takes a look at whether or not they are effective at treating arthritis. "Bertken 1983 MSM provides a dietary source of sulfur for methionine.Richmond 1986 MSM's medicinal properties are theorized to be similar to DMSO, without the odor and skin irritation complications.Usha 2004. With strict editorial sourcing guidelines, we only link to academic research institutions, reputable media sites and, when research is available, medically peer-reviewed studies. But there's another ingredient that's less popular and also has several health benefits: methylsulfonylmethane (also known as MSM). Methylsulfonylmethane is the oxidized form of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), an organic sulfur compound (aka organosulfur compound) formed from lignan. Lim, E. PLoS One. MSM is commonly used for osteoarthritis, but may also benefit in alleviating GI upset, musculoskeletal pain, and allergies; boosting the immune system; and fighting microbial infections. Here are 12 foods and beverages to add to your diet for better skin health. Any medical information published on this website is not intended as a substitute for informed medical advice and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional. Promote cartilage and collagen health. Sauerkraut Benefits, Plus How to Make Your Own! The MSM dosage was 6 grams (g) per day for 26 weeks. Related: Foods High in Sulfur and Their Benefits. Osteoarthritis, which affects around 32.5 million people in the United States, is a deterioration of the cartilage in one or more of the joints. Last updated on Feb 20, 2023. Despite the lack of medical studies, MSM is a natural source of sulfur, which could be beneficial to the skin. Try simply adding it to water (usually about 16 ounces for one serving). [3], As a known antioxidant compound, MSM is known to reduce the impact of free radicals and lower oxidative stress, which is largely responsible for acne, blemishes, wrinkles, age spots, and other inflammatory conditions on the skin. There are several types of MSM supplements available: Its available in powder form most often. What if I told you there was a so-called miracle supplement that could help lower inflammation, fight the effects of stress and pain, raise immunity, and increase energy levels? Because studies show it can help to reduce inflammation and decrease the release of cytokines and prostaglandins, this supplement can be useful for managing allergic reactions. Allergic rhinitis is an allergic reaction that causes symptoms such as watery eyes, sneezing, itching, runny nose and nasal congestion (15). Research shows that it may be helpful in reducing joint pain, lowering inflammation, improving skin health, decreasing allergy symptoms and speeding recovery after exercise. According to research findings, MSM could be useful for treating several different medical conditions. It may also be beneficial for reducing pain after prolonged exercise. Clinical trials are needed to verify these potential uses. They may also help improve physical function. When commercially prepared its used to make a popular joint health supplement due to its anti-inflammatory effects. A test-tube study showed that MSM effectively restored glutathione levels and reduced inflammatory markers in mouse cells that had been weakened with HIV proteins (20). You might find it in powdered supplement mixes, such as green powders or digestive aids. This may result in temporary soreness and discomfort after a workout. MSM is essential for supporting many different functions in the body. Heres good news if your someone whos regularly active but suffers from muscle pain: Research suggests that MSM can act like a natural analgesic, helping prevent andtreat muscle aches and pains, throbbing and swelling while improving range of motion and mobility. MSM is a potent anti-inflammatory commonly used to treat osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, tendonitis, and tenosynovitis. According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), MSM is considered safe at dosages under 4,000 milligrams (mg) per kilogram (kg) per day and in energy bars at levels up to 30,000 mg/kg. This product has not been reviewed by the FDA to determine whether it is safe or effective and is not subject to the quality standards and safety information collection standards that are applicable to most prescription drugs. MSM may help boost your immune system by reducing inflammation and increasing glutathione levels. First, you will have to discard the tough outer leaves of the lemongrass stalks by peeling them away with your fingers. By reducing inflammation, MSM may be able to reduce or eliminate certain symptoms. Research shows that MSM also stabilizes cell membranes, improves the bodys antioxidant abilities, slows or stops leakage from injured cells, and scavenges hydroxyl free radicals. The principal dietary sources of sulfur are the amino acids called methionine and cysteine.