Found in small amounts in most foods, the natural sulfur known as MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane) has been used for years to treat pain associated with joints and muscles.Sulfur is a necessary part of proteins, including those proteins that make up the cartilage, muscles, hair, nails, and skin. Since it is a component of all these things, it is not surprising that arthritis sufferers who supplement their diets with MSM report stronger nails and faster-growing hair.
MSM absorbs very well even through the skin, and can be used in cream form for topical application. No matter the form it comes in (cream, liquid, powder or pill) MSM is an anti-inflammatory and often found with other supplements known to be beneficial for arthritis such as glucosamine. Unlike glucosamine, MSM does not work to rebuild cartilage and connective tissues, nor does it help lubricate joints the way chondroitin is reported to work. Instead, MSM helps the body transport nutrients through cell membranes and into the cells where they are needed most.
Some animal lovers may know MSM better by another name. It is actually a more refined version of a supplement known as DMSO (dimethyl sulfoxide). This supplement was used extensively for large livestock, and veterinarians applied it to the legs of racehorses for pain. The medical field studied DMSO for its ability to transport other substances through cell membranes, and uses it today to protect human tissues (such as bone marrow) when frozen for storage. Unfortunately, DMSO never became a popular supplement for people because it has a strong garlic odor. MSM retains all of the anti-inflammatory properties but without any odor or taste.
When combined with glucosamine and other nutrients known to aid arthritis, MSM users report pain relief very quickly, usually in less than a week. The effect on hair and nails seems to take a little longer time to be apparent; results are usually noticed after a month. There is no unsafe amount of MSM. Even people who have reported allergies to sulfa-based prescription medicines find they are not allergic to the naturally-occurring sulfur of MSM.
- Jacob, MD, Stanley. The Miracle of MSM: The Natural Solution for Pain. Berkley Trade, 1999.
- Whole Health MD website: www.wholehealthmd.com
- The Arthritis Foundation website: www.arthritis.org
BIOMETICS’ complete line of advanced liquid nutritional supplements provide vital nutrients in a highly absorbable form. FLEXI-CARE PLUS contains MSM, as well as Glucosamine and several other nutrients for joint health.*
*The material provided here is for educational purposes only and is not intended as diagnosis, treatment, or prescription for any disease. Anyone suffering from any disease, illness or injury should consult with a physician.
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