by Annette Pinder

MSM (Methylsulfonymethane) is a chemical found in animals, humans, and many plants that people often use to treat arthritis. A recent WebMD article reviewed by Melinda Ratini, MS, DO, notes that MSM can be produced in a lab and combined with other supplements, such as glucosamine or chondroitin. MSM can be taken by mouth or applied to the skin to help reduce inflammation caused by osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, bursitis, tendinitis, or tenosynovitis.

People also apply MSM to the skin to try to treat scar tissue, stretch marks, wrinkles, wind or sunburn, wounds, abrasions, and rosacea. People sometimes take MSM to treat chronic constipation, ulcers, diverticulosis, and hemorrhoids. MSM has also been used to treat obesity and liver problems, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, gum disease, snoring, infections, lung problems, Alzheimer’s, HIV, and cancer.

According to Dr. Ratini, MSM that is combined with other supplements may help with pain and swelling due to knee osteoarthritis, and research in animals has shown a possible decrease in joint degeneration. Unfortunately, these studies have been very small, and larger studies are needed to confirm that MSM may be able to help with exercise recovery. The WebMD article reviewed by Dr. Ratini notes that MSM may also help treat allergies, repetitive stress injuries, certain bladder disorders, and wounds. However, larger studies are needed.

While people who use MSM typically take between 500 milligrams to 3 grams of the supplement daily for osteoarthritis, there have not been any recommended optimal doses for the condition. Also, ingredients in supplements can vary from different manufacturers. A very small amount of MSM is found in fruit, corn, tomatoes, tea and coffee, and milk. Taking 6 grams of MSM by mouth for 6 months or less appears to be safe, but there is not enough information about its safety when applied to the skin. However, studies have shown minimal side effects when 3 grams daily are taken for six months. Individuals who are pregnant or breastfeeding should refrain from taking MSM as its safety under these circumstances is not yet known.

It is important to know that the FDA does not regulate supplements at the same level as they do food and medicine. Instead, manufacturers are responsible for the safety of these products, and they have no incentive to do so. As with all supplements, advise your doctor as to what you are taking in order to be sure of any potential side effects that can occur as a result of interactions with any medications or supplements.

See https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324544 for more information on MSM’s possible health benefits.