- MSM (methylsulfonylmethane) is a natural organic sulphur compound.
- It is used in dietary supplements, cosmetics and the food industry.
- MSM has anti-inflammatory properties, supports skin condition and joint and muscle regeneration, and improves the absorption of other active ingredients.
- MSM supplementation may be beneficial for athletes, physically active people and those with joint problems.
Organic sulphur in the form of MSM (methylsulfonylmethane) is becoming an increasingly popular ingredient in new-generation dietary supplements and functional cosmetics. Due to its anti-inflammatory and regenerative properties, it is used both in supplements for athletes and in preparations to support joint health or skin appearance.
Organic sulphur and its role in the body
Sulphur is an essential element for the human body. It accounts for approximately 0.25 per cent of our body weight and is a component of amino acids (such as methionine or cysteine) and enzymes (e.g. coenzyme A), and is also involved in the synthesis of collagen. As a form of organosulphur, MSM plays a key role in tissue regeneration, the production of glutathione (a natural antioxidant) and maintaining the integrity of cell membranes. Due to its structure, it easily penetrates cell membranes, supporting the transport of nutrients.
Deficiencies of sulphur in the body can result in feelings of fatigue and lack of energy, as well as an increased risk of diseases of civilisation, such as allergies, heart and liver disease, arthritis or cancer.
What is MSM? Properties and origin
MSM (methylsulfonylmethane) or dimethylsulfone (DMSO₂) is an organic sulphur compound with the chemical formula (CH₃)₂SO₂. It occurs naturally in small amounts in some vegetables (e.g. onions and garlic), fruits, legumes, nuts, eggs and milk.
Due to its low concentration in food for supplementation purposes, MSM is industrially extracted and available as pure crystalline powder or capsules. It has good bioavailability and chemical stability, is relatively inert chemically and is resistant to decomposition at high temperatures.
Health properties of methylsulfonylmethane
Scientific studies confirm a number of benefits associated with MSM supplementation:
- anti-inflammatory effects – MSM inhibits the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α and IL-6, thereby reducing chronic inflammation;
- reducing oxidative stress – as a sulphur donor, MSM promotes the production of glutathione, protecting cells from oxidative stress (a protective effect on the liver and intestines, for example, has been observed in studies);
- joint regeneration support – MSM supplementation can provide relief from osteoarthritis and rheumatism, reducing joint pain and stiffness, as well as having a protective effect on joints and aiding recovery from injury;
- skin and hair health – MSM improves skin elasticity, accelerates healing and increases keratin and collagen production;
- immune support – MSM influences the balance of cytokines, inhibits excessive leukocyte activation and supports the body’s defence mechanisms;
- reduction of allergy symptoms.
Use of MSM
As a natural and highly functional product, organic sulphur has a wide potential on the market, mainly in the production of dietary supplements, cosmetics and medical devices.
Medical supplements
Due to its potential medicinal properties, MSM is often a supporting ingredient in dietary supplements such as:
- joint preparations (in combination with glucosamine and chondroitin) – often intended for athletes, trauma patients or the elderly,
- anti-inflammatory products,
- immune support supplements,
- liver protection supplements,
- supplements to support patients suffering from inflammatory bowel disease and pulmonary hypertension.
Cosmetology
MSM is also used in cosmetics and dietary supplements to improve skin and hair condition and prevent ageing. When applied topically, it also facilitates the penetration through the skin of other compounds present in a given cosmetic. It is often used together with hyaluronic acid and L-carnosine. In addition, it has a stimulating effect on keratin and collagen production.
In studies on the use of MSM cosmetics, significant improvements have been observed in the number and depth of wrinkles, firmness, skin tone and texture, as well as improved shine, volume and appearance of hair and nails.
Food industry
In the food industry, MSM is a popular ingredient in dietary supplements for physically active people. In supplements for athletes, it is thought to support muscle regeneration and reduce muscle soreness, providing support during periods of intense training.
Regular supplementation reduces muscle micro-injuries, speeds up regeneration and improves range of motion. Studies of athletes have also shown improved sports performance and increased perceived energy after 30 days of MSM use. Increasingly, the compound is being introduced not only into dietary supplements and sports nutrition, but also into functional drinks, protein bars and vitamin shots.
Why is MSM popular in industrial applications?
MSM is an ingredient with high market potential, especially for dietary supplement manufacturers, due to the fact that the compound is:
- compatible with a variety of possible product formulations (tablets, capsules, powders, drinks),
- stable in production processes,
- attractive to premium brands and those wishing to expand their portfolio with products targeting the regeneration and wellness market,
- safe to use.
The MSM market is growing rapidly – according to Credence Research, the global value of this segment reached USD 1.659 billion in 2022 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 3.68% until 2030. Consumers are increasingly looking for ingredients that are as natural as possible, functional and have scientifically proven effects.
Although, in the case of MSM, more extensive studies are required to confirm its clinical efficacy, existing reports support its potentially beneficial effects on the body. The compound, moreover, is safe for use, as confirmed by its GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) status granted by the FDA. Studies have found it to have very low toxicity and high tolerability.
MSM from Foodcom
Our dietary supplement with MSM is created for physically active people, athletes and anyone who wants to support their joints, regeneration and immunity. High-quality MSM characterised by its excellent purity and convenient formulation will be great for the various uses described in this article, ensuring safety and measurable health benefits.
Bibliography:
- Barmaki, S., Bohlooli, S., Khoshkhahesh, F., Nakhostin-Roohi, B. (2012). Effect of methylsulfonylmethane supplementation on exercise – Induced muscle damage and total antioxidant capacity. The Journal of Sports Medicine and Physical Fitness, 52 (2): 170-4
- Barrager, E., Veltmann Jr, J. R., Schauss, A. G., & Schiller, R. N. (2002). A multicentered, open-label trial on the safety and efficacy of methylsulfonylmethane in the treatment of seasonal allergic rhinitis. Journal of Alternative & Complementary Medicine, 8(2), 167-173
- Butawan, M., Benjamin, R. L., & Bloomer, R. J. (2017). Methylsulfonylmethane: Applications and Safety of a Novel Dietary Supplement. Nutrients, 9(3), 290
- Debbi, E. M., Agar, G., Fichman, G., et al. (2011). Efficacy of methylsulfonylmethane supplementation on osteoarthritis of the knee: a randomized controlled study. BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 11(1), 50
- DiSilvestro, R. A., DiSilvestro, D. J., DiSilvestro, D. J. (2008). Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) Intake in Mice Produces Elevated Liver Glutathione and Partially Protects Against Carbon Tetrachloride-Induced Liver Injury. FASEB J. 22 (1): 445-8
- Muizzuddin, N., Benjamin, R, (2019). Beneficial Effects of a Sulfur-Containing Supplement on Hair and Nail Condition. Natural Medicine Journal, 11(11): 1-8
- Muizzuddin, N., Benjamin, R. (2020). Beauty from within: Oral administration of a sulfur-containing supplement methylsulfonylmethane improves signs of skin ageing. International Journal for Vitamin and Nutrition Research, 92(3-4): 182-191
