What Are the Benefits of Consuming MSM?

Sold as a dietary supplement, MSM (methylsulfonylmethane) is a "naturally occurring sulfur compound," according to MSMGUIDE (see Reference 1). It originates in the ocean, where phytoplankton and algae release a precursor sulfur compound. The production of commercially available MSM entails mixing dimethyl sulfoxide and hydrogen peroxide, then purifying the remaining compound. MSM possesses several reputed therapeutic effects. Like other dietary supplements, MSM production does not fall within pharmaceutical regulations, and the purity of end products may vary.

Joint Paint Relief

• Those with degenerative joint conditions, such as osteoarthritis, frequently suffer with chronic pain issues. MSM reputedly reduces the total pain suffered by those with chronic degenerative joint conditions. While much of the evidence of this effect remains anecdotal, some preliminary scientific evidence supports the claims. A double-blind, random, placebo-controlled study appearing in the March 2006 issue of "Osteoarthritis and Cartilage" reports that MSM provides reduces "pain and physical function impairment" relative to the effects of a placebo (see Reference 2). The study did suffer from a small sample size (50 people), but the results suggest a clinical basis for the anecdotal evidence. The Arthritis and Glucosamine Information Center reports that MSM works best as a synergistic addition to other supplements aimed at joint pain relief, such as glucosamine and chondroitin (see Reference 3).

Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis

• Those with hay fever (seasonal allergic rhinitis) may benefit from taking MSM supplements. An open-label study originally appearing in the April 8, 2002, issue of the "Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine" reports that in a 30-day trial, 50 participants received a 2,600 mg oral dose of MSM (see Reference 4). The study results indicated an improvement in energy levels and reduced respiratory symptoms. While not conclusive, a larger, double-blind study was recommended to further study the efficacy of MSM in treating seasonal allergic rhinitis. These results suggest, at least nonimally, that anecdotal reports of MSM assisting with hay fever symptoms have some validity.

Other Benefits

• Other benefits reported from taking MSM tend to have less scientific backing than those of arthritis and hay fever. Improved physical appearance tends to be a popular example. Drawing heavily on David Wolfe's book "Eating For Beauty," Well-women.com reports that MSM can help to enhance hair, fingernail and skin health, as well as reducing wrinkles (see Reference 5). Athletes report that it helps to reduce muscle cramps. MSM also provides general immune support, according to Well-women.com, as well as reducing acne. While not necessarily true or false, MSM has virtually no reported toxicity, meaning the chances of it harming a healthy person remain extraordinarily low.