MSM

Scientific Name:  Methylsulfonylmethane (C2H6O2S).

Other Names:  Dimethylsulfone.

MSM is an organic sulfur compound and otherwise known as a sulfone.  It can be found in small amounts in many foods and drinks and occurs naturally in some primitive plants.

Forms of MSM:  In supplementation, MSM is found as a single ingredient in many over the counter offerings, mainly in the form of capsules. 

In this form, MSM sales alone in 2003 amounted to $115 million. 

Oral consumption seems to be effective, since the substance can cross the blood-brain barrier after ingestion and is not metabolized in the liver prior to bodily usage.

Sources of MSM: While not entirely known, it appears through studies that MSM is derived from dietary sources, intestinal bacterial metabolism, and the body’s methanethiol metabolism.

Home Remedies using MSM:

Benefits and Uses of MSM:

While clinical studies are inconclusive and still underway to prove its effectiveness, MSM is commonly used in the treatment and prevention of osteoarthritis, usually in combination with chondroitin and/or glucosamine. 

It may be used as an anti-inflammatory, though this is not entirely proven.

In industry, MSM is used as a high temperature solvent because of its polarity and thermal stability. 

As a medium for carrying out chemical reactions, it is used in polymerization and to make paint, agrochemicals, coating materials, biocides, and pharmaceuticals. 

As a supplemental element, studies are slow in producing evidence of effectiveness. 

However, MSM appears to have anti-inflammatory properties helpful in the treatment of osteoarthritis. 

MSM may be affective in relieving symptoms of allergies such as common hayfever and could help to prevent some forms of snoring.

Side Effects of MSM:

Though studies and trials are still underway, there is no evidence of any negative side effects associated with supplementation of MSM.

Additional Information for MSM:

According to law enforcement officials, MSM is often used in methamphetamines to dilute the substances for the illegal drug trade.