MSM

Methyl· Sulfonyl· Methane

The Super Supplement Of The Decade!

By Martha M. Christy

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means including
electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or information storage system without written permission from the
publisher, except for the inclusion of brief quotations in a review.

Disclaimer – This book is designed to be used as an educational tool only. Any medical attention or treatment should not
be delayed when professional help is needed. The author, publisher, distributor, or those whose names appear in this
book shall have no liability or responsibility for any loss or damage caused (or allegedly caused) by the information
presented in this book.

Copyright © 1997 -2010, Martha M. Christy

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 Table of Contents

Introduction 4
A New Breakthrough in Healing 5
What is MSM? 6
How is Sulfur Used for Healing? 7
The MSM Story 8
How Does MSM Differ From Other Sulfurs? 9
How Do We Get MSM in Our Diets? 10
The History of MSM 12
MSM Research & Health Benefits 14
Acidity / Heartburn 15
Allergies 16
Arthritis 17
Breast Cancer 19
Colon Cancer 19
Constipation 20
Emphysema / Lung Problems 20
Gastro-Intestinal Problems 21
Lupus 21
Muscle Pain 22
Parasites 22
Scar Tissue 23
Scleroderma 23
Skin, Hair & Nail Conditions 23
Snoring 24
Using MSM with other Supplements 24
MSM For Pets 25
Conclusion 26
How to Use MSM 28
Drug Interactions 29
References 31
Bibliography 32

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INTRODUCTION

Isn‘t it wonderful to be living in an age of so many new discoveries? Although

the 20th century has undoubtedly offered some of the greatest challenges in
history to mankind, it has also provided answers and solutions to a number of
life‘s greatest mysteries.

I think many of the most profound breakthroughs I have seen over the last 40
years have been in the field of medicine, specifically in our understanding of
how our bodies work and what we need to do to maintain health and increase
our longevity. When I look back through history, the pain and suffering that
people endured from what are now ―simple‖ illnesses seems almost
unbelievable.

Today, medical science has revealed such a panoply of medical treatments

that our options seem almost endless. And now, the discoveries of natural
medicines and how they work to fight disease and restore health are giving us
safer and more effective support than ever before.

Because of my own very long history of severe illness, I have used, studied and
written about natural treatments that have helped me overcome diseases and
disorders that almost destroyed my life at an early age. The extraordinary
success I experienced in using natural medicines has led me down a long road
— researching and sharing information about how we can heal and treat
ourselves with less complicated, simpler, more natural and less expensive
treatments.

I know that it can be difficult to sort out what herb or formula or homeopathic
medicine to use when you are ill, but what I discovered for myself is that the
more I read about natural medicines, the easier it was to choose the right one
when I needed it. I also found that choosing simple, basic natural substances as
opposed to complex formulas can also provide more dramatic healing with few
side effects, which is why I generally recommend single herbs, homeopathic
remedies or other single supplements in treating illness.

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A NEW BREAKTHROUGH IN NATURAL HEALING

A simple, naturally occurring substance which is now receiving a great deal of

attention for its medicinal value is a nutrient called MSM. After reading the
research and reports on MSM and in using it in my own nutritional counseling
practice, I have to say that I feel MSM is here to stay as a staple dietary
supplement.

As the testimonials and research have shown, MSM can play a dramatic role in
the areas of natural pain control for inflammation, general muscular aches and
pains, rheumatoid arthritis, constipation, allergies, stomach problems, parasite
infections and more.

In the next few pages, we will examine what MSM is, what the research studies
say about its benefits and how you can use it nutritionally to improve your
overall health, or therapeutically to relieve a variety of very stubborn health
problems.

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WHAT IS MSM?
MSM is the abbreviation for the technical term methyl-sulfonyl-methane, which
refers to a naturally occurring sulfur compound found in the tissues and fluids of
all plants, animals and humans. MSM sulfur and its related compounds make up
85% of the sulfur found in all living organisms. Unknown to many of us, sulfur is a
vital and essential substance contained in all living things. Actually, 96% of our
bodies are composed of five basic elements: oxygen, hydrogen, nitrogen,
carbon and sulfur. Sulfur itself is found in many different forms in nature, but MSM
is a special type of dietary sulfur that is essential to our health and well-being.

HOW DO OUR BODIES USE SULFUR?

Sulfur is one of the most basic and important elements of organic life and in
humans, sulfur performs a variety of key functions. Let‘s look at a few sulfur facts:

1. Sulfur is needed to form crucial blood proteins and amino acids including
methionine, cystine, cysteine and taurine. In our bodies, sulfur provides
chemical bonds that actually hold the molecular structure of these proteins
together.

2. Sulfur also provides the chemical links that are needed to form collagen in the
body (the protein found in connective tissue). So without these sulfur bonds, we
(and other animals) would essentially be shapeless pools of protoplasm.

3. Because sulfur forms both the collagen and keratin in the body it is often
called the ―beauty mineral.‖ It is essential for thick and lustrous hair, blemish-free
skin and hard, healthy nails.

4 .Sulfur acts as a synthesizer and activator of thiamin, vitamin C, biotin and

pantothenic acid.

5. Sulfur is used by the liver to manufacture bile, a key element used in digestion.

6. Sulfur is essential in maintaining the body‘s crucial pH (acid/alkaline) balance.

7. Studies show that sulfur is an important component in insulin production and

plays a significant role in carbohydrate metabolism, which is particularly
important for diabetics and hypoglycemics.

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HOW IS SULFUR USED FOR HEALING?
Sulfur has been used throughout history as a healing agent. For centuries, sulfur
hot springs have been known to provide relief from aches, pains, arthritis,
rheumatism and general poor health.

In the 20th century, a variety of sulfa drugs (sulfonamides), which are derived
from sulfur, have been used extensively in modern medicine for fighting
bacterial infections. Sulfur ointments or liniments are also used for their anti-
bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

DMSO, another form of sulfur (and the chemical cousin of MSM) is used in many
countries as a pharmaceutical agent for athletic injuries, arthritis, cystitis, central
nervous system trauma and stroke.

MSM is the newest form of therapeutic sulfur discovered in the early 1960s. One
of the biggest advantages of MSM is that it provides a majority of the healing
benefits of other forms of sulfur, but unlike sulfa drugs, or even DMSO, MSM can
be given in large doses as a dietary sulfur supplement without deleterious side
effects of any kind.

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THE MSM STORY

Scientists tell us that there are three types of sulfur compounds that are the
source of the majority (85%) of the sulfur found in all living organisms. These are
MSM (methyl-sulfonyl-methane), DMSO (dimethylsulfoxide) and DMS
(dimethylsulfide).

Now, the story of how these sulfur compounds are formed and end up in our
bodies begins — where else, but in the ocean.

In the fertile, salty ocean environment, a microscopic plankton called Emiliana

huxleyii grows profusely over thousands of miles of oceans, continually
producing and releasing sulfur compounds called dimethylsulfonium salts. As
these salts are released into the water by the Emiliana plankton, they are
converted into a sulfur compound called DMS (dimethylsulfide).

As DMS rises to the ocean surface, it is released as a gas which then rises into the
upper atmosphere. High in the atmosphere, the DMS comes into contact with
ozone and ultraviolet light which then transforms the DMS gas into related sulfur
compounds called DMSO (dimethylsulfoxide), and MSM (methyl-sulfonyl-
methane).

The atmospheric DMSO and MSM sulfur, which are water soluble compounds,
mix with rain and are returned to the earth‘s surface, where they are absorbed
by the plants and soil. As the plants soak up the DMSO and MSM sulfur into their
roots, they concentrate these compounds up to 100 times their original
concentration. Eventually, the MSM becomes the dominant bioavailable sulfur
and is actually incorporated into the very structure of the plant itself.

As humans and lower animals consume MSM-laden plants or agriculturally

produced vegetables, MSM enters the body as a dietary sulfur which is essential
to overall health and well-being.

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HOW DOES MSM DIFFER FROM
OTHER FORMS OF SULFURS?

Sulfur is a common element that occurs abundantly in nature and is found in

many different places and in many different forms. The basic chemical form of
sulfur is known in chemistry by the symbol (S). Sulfur is the 16th most abundant
element in the earth‘s crust, and is found throughout nature in both its free state
(by itself), or in combination with other elements. In its free state, sulfur is found
mixed with gypsum and pumice stone in volcanic regions. Vast subterranean
deposits of sulfur are also found in areas such as Louisiana, Texas, Colorado,
Nevada, Wyoming and California.

Free sulfur (also called elemental sulfur) may be formed from the weathering of
pyrites or from hot sulfurous water from subterranean sources, which is deposited
on land, residing in rocks and soil. Elemental sulfur is commonly used in making
matches, certain types of rubber, dyes and gunpowder. Mixed with lime, sulfur
is used on plants as a fungicide. Annual production of elemental sulfur in the
1990s was about 10.6 million metric tons.

So as you can see, sulfur takes many different forms in nature, but unlike other
forms of sulfur, MSM is a dietary sulfur that can be taken as a supplement every
day. MSM also differs from other types of sulfur in that our bodies can assimilate
and utilize it easily and efficiently, providing dietary and therapeutic benefits.
Unlike other forms of sulfur, MSM is tasteless, odorless and causes no side effects
even when taken in large doses.

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HOW DO WE GET MSM IN OUR DIETS?
Once it is incorporated within the plant structure, MSM enters the food chain as
plants are consumed by humans and animals. Consuming the meat of animals
that eat large amounts of plants is another natural means of distributing vital
MSM throughout the food chain.

We humans derive our dietary MSM sulfur from fresh vegetables, fresh fruits,
meat and seafood. Fresh cow‘s milk (non-pasteurized) has been found to be a
particularly rich source of dietary sulfur containing between 2 and 3 parts per
million of MSM.

Unfortunately, heat and processing can destroy or greatly reduce the MSM
content of our fruits, vegetables and milk. Overuse and abuse of our agricultural
soils also depletes a large amount of MSM from our food sources.

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As Robert Herschler, a pioneer MSM researcher reveals, ―MSM is shy, evasive and
escape prone. While present naturally when food is very fresh, it can be driven
out of any food by even moderate processing. People, generally speaking, will
be sulfur-deficient unless they eat their fish and meat raw and their vegetables
unwashed and uncooked.‖ (1)

In general, healthy individuals are reported to have MSM blood levels of 1 ppm
(parts per million). But research also shows that MSM levels decline with age,
resulting in symptoms of fatigue, tissue and organ malfunction and increased
susceptibility to disease.

But the good news is that researchers have discovered a way to prepare MSM
supplements which can be used nutritionally to enhance our diets, as well as
therapeutically to help a wide variety of health problems.

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THE HISTORY OF MSM
Dr. Stanley Jacob of the Oregon Health Sciences University in Portland, Oregon,
and his associate, Robert Herschler, a research chemist, were the pioneers of
MSM research. Their work on MSM was actually an offshoot of their extensive
investigation of DMSO, the chemical cousin of MSM.

The story is that Robert Herschler, a research chemist for the paper
manufacturing company, Crown Zellerbach, was investigating possible
commercial uses for DMSO, which is a by-product of paper milling. DMSO is
found in substantial quantities in the water which is used during the milling and
processing of trees for paper production.

In his search for commercial or medical uses of DMSO, Herschler apparently

contacted Dr. Jacob, a medical researcher, who began to study the biological
effects of DMSO on animals.

After testing and observing the biological effects of DMSO on animals over the
course of several years, Jacob and Herschler began observing its effects on
humans. They discovered and documented several of its remarkable
therapeutic benefits. DMSO was found to be effective for a variety of
conditions including joint and muscle pains and injuries, rheumatoid arthritis, skin
ulcers, psoriasis, bursitis, emphysema and interstitial cystitis (chronic urinary tract
infection). In 1963, Jacob and Herschler reported their findings on DMSO; today
DMSO is an approved pharmaceutical agent in over 50 countries.

DMSO can be applied intravenously or topically. Because it penetrates well

through the skin‘s outer layers, it is absorbed efficiently into the bloodstream
through the topical route (liquid or salve).

But even though it is widely used throughout the world, DMSO has exhibited
certain properties that have made it somewhat unpopular, particularly in the
United States. One of the biggest factors that has limited the everyday use of
DMSO is its side effects, which, although not severe, have nonetheless restricted
its application. The resulting bad breath or ―after breath‖ which is associated
with the use of DMSO is extremely strong, and there may be a reddening and
itching of the skin, making DMSO unappealing to many users.

Additionally, DMSO has produced allergic symptoms in some individuals.

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However, while continuing their DMSO studies, Jacob and Herschler discovered
that the primary healing agent in DMSO appeared to be its cousin, the sulfur
compound, MSM (methyl-sulfonyl-methane). MSM can be produced by adding
another stabilizing oxygen molecule to DMSO which yields DMSO2, another term
for MSM.

MSM was eventually patented under Robert Herschler‘s name, but Jacob
reports that he signed an agreement with Herschler whereby they would both
share the patent and marketing rights to MSM.

Jacob, Herschler and other researchers continued to conduct extensive

laboratory and clinical trials with MSM. These studies revealed numerous
extraordinary therapeutic benefits — without the odor, allergies or side effects
experienced with DMSO.

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MSM RESEARCH & HEALTH BENEFITS
In laboratory and clinical testing, MSM has shown remarkable promise for side-
effect-free healing. In his work with MSM at the Oregon Health Sciences
University in Portland, Oregon, Dr. Jacob, a pioneer MSM researcher, has
reported a wide variety of MSM health benefits. These reports stem from several
years of observation in both animal and human studies.

As Jacob and Herschler report: ―MSM, an odorless, essentially tasteless, white

crystalline chemical, demonstrates usefulness as a dietary supplement to man
and lower animals. Our research suggests that a minimum concentration in the
body may be critical to both normal function and structure … We are intrigued
by the fact that MSM is a factor in all normal diets of vertebrates and somewhat
mystified by the seeming need of the body of adults for a concentration level
above that available from a diet presumed as ‗normal.‘‖ (2)

At the Oregon Health Sciences University, Jacob has administered MSM to over
15,000 patients for a variety of conditions. Dr. Jacob observed excellent results
in administering MSM in doses of 250 to 750 milligrams per day to his patients, but
he also reports that much higher doses (up to 5000 mg per day) can produce
definitive therapeutic improvements without side effects. (3)

In the next few pages, we will look at specific illnesses and specific MSM
research which will give you a better idea of how to use MSM effectively to
improve your health.

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ACIDITY / HEARTBURN
Heartburn and excess stomach acidity are at an all-time high these days, which
is not surprising considering our modern diet of pizza, soda and burgers. But
chronic use of antacids or acid-blockers is just plain bad for your body.

Most people don‘t realize that the chronic use of antacids can begin to
permanently impair the natural pH, or acid/alkaline balance of the body. Acid-
blockers like Zantac® were originally developed for treating severely ill ulcer
patients and can cause a host of side effects including liver damage, hepatitis,
insomnia, vertigo, severe headaches, mental confusion, pancreatic
inflammation, constipation, vomiting or diarrhea. But laboratory and clinical
studies show that MSM can provide extremely effective, often immediate relief
from excess acidity, with no side effects whatsoever.

Dr. Jacob reports that patients with hyperacidity who use antacids or acid-
blockers have taken MSM as an alternative treatment with excellent results; they
experience none of the side effects that can accompany anti-acid drugs.
Additionally, MSM can be taken every day without disturbing any of the body‘s
normal functions, including acid/alkaline (pH) balances. Dr. Jacob has
generally administered up to 750 mg per day for treating hyperacidity, but
reports having used as much as 2000 mg daily for a period of six months for
patients requiring higher therapeutic doses. (3)

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ALLERGIES
In treating allergy patients with MSM, Dr. Jacob observed that both
environmental and food allergies were dramatically reduced. He also found
that the anti-allergy properties of MSM were equal to or better than traditional
antihistamines, yet MSM causes no side effects.

Herschler, Jacob‘s associate, personally experienced the anti-allergenic

properties of MSM: ―Early in his work with MSM, Herschler found that when taking
MSM he was not bothered by three types of allergies that were normally so
severe at specific times of the year that he needed antihistamines to combat
them. That experience led him to do research with laboratory animals. He
discovered that MSM (in layman‘s terms) had a coating action on the entire
gastro-intestinal tract, making it impossible for the allergens to bond and cause
their damage.‖ (1)

The patent information on MSM outlines these specific benefits for allergies:

Environmental Allergies: Patients with chronic or severe environmental allergies

to substances such as house dust, animal hair, wool, pollen and other similar
allergens have reported ―substantial to complete relief‖ of their symptoms
including inflammation, mucous discharge, itching and general discomfort.
Asthma and hay fever sufferers also report significant relief. For severe allergies
requiring conventional medications, users report that taking MSM in addition to
their anti-allergy drugs significantly reduced the amount of medication needed
to control symptoms.

MSM also provides protection against insecticide exposure because it

neutralizes anticholinesterases (toxic chemicals in insecticides and nerve gas). It
also enhances urinary excretion of substances in the body produced by
hydrocarbons.

The reported results for environmental allergies were based on dosages varying
from 50 to 1000 mg per day.

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Food Allergies: Various food allergies (to milk, seafood, cereals, etc.) were
reported to have been dramatically lessened with daily dosages of 100 to 1000
mg of MSM.

Drug Allergies: Allergies to drugs such as aspirin, arthritis drugs (Indocin and
Motrin®), and allergies to oral antibiotics have been completely relieved or
greatly decreased in MSM users taking 100 to 1000 mg per day of oral MSM,
according to Dr. Jacob.

Also, MSM is known to exert a strong anti-inflammatory activity on the body

which can greatly assist in relieving the localized or more general inflammations
that are common in allergic reactions.

Dr. Jacob reports that a combination of vitamin C (500 to 1000 mg per day)
taken with a daily dose of MSM is particularly effective in boosting immune
strength and combatting inflammation. (3)

ARTHRITIS
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is a common joint disease affecting some 70% of women over 65
years of age and a significant number of men under 45. Osteoarthritis begins
with a softening of the cartilage in the joints, which later develops into cartilage
thinning and degeneration, bone cysts and separation of joint tissue and
cartilage. Conventional medicines for this painful and debilitating condition
include analgesics and anti-inflammatory drugs, but the side effects from
continuous use of such drugs can be severe.

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MSM has shown excellent potential as a non-toxic treatment for osteoarthritis.
Dr. Jacob conducted a study at the Oregon Health Sciences University in which
12 OA (osteoarthritis) patients were treated with MSM, while another 12 were
treated with 2400 mg of Motrin® daily. The results showed that not only was
MSM well tolerated in the non-Motrin® group, but that MSM was on par with
Motrin® as a pain reliever for OA, yet had none of Motrin®‘s toxicity or side
effects. (4)

Rheumatoid Arthritis
Amazingly, 40% of people over 65 suffer from some form of rheumatoid arthritis.
According to Dr. Jacob, MSM acts as both an anti-inflammatory agent and as a
good analgesic (pain reliever).

Doctors and patients report that sore, stiff joints respond well to MSM
supplementation, as do bursitis, inflamed joints, etc.

Researchers at Oregon Health Sciences University conducted tests on mice that

were prone to the development of joint lesions similar to those seen in
rheumatoid arthritis. Mice that were fed a diet that included a 3% solution of
MSM in their drinking water daily for three months suffered no lesions or cartilage
damage, while those not fed MSM did show cartilage degeneration within the
three month test period. (5)

In talking to those who use MSM for arthritis or joint and muscle pain, it appears
that larger doses of MSM are more effective. Dr. Jacob reports that daily doses
of 2000 to 5000 mg per day of MSM can be used for therapeutic purposes with
no side effects. Vitamin C added to this MSM regimen is also reported to greatly
reduce symptoms of pain, swelling and inflammation. There are no established
guidelines for what dosage is best in treating muscle and joint pain, but a
regimen of 2000 to 5000 mg per day for two to four weeks has been reported as
effective. Once the pain has subsided, a supplemental dose of 250 to 750 mg
per day can be resumed. If symptoms reappear, increase the dosage as
needed to relieve the pain.

There have been many clinical reports on the benefits of MSM for arthritis from
consistent users. Those reports demonstrate how MSM reduces the swelling and
inflammation of joints which, in turn, reduces pain and stiffness

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BREAST CANCER
Animal research done at the Ohio State University College of Medicine showed
that oral MSM supplementation can protect against the onset of breast cancer
in animals. In one study, rats bred to be prone to breast cancer were given oral
doses of MSM for eight days. After the eight days on MSM, the animals were
given oral doses of a carcinogenic (cancer-causing) chemical called
dimethylbenzanthracene. These test animals were monitored for close to a year
(240 to 300 days) and were compared to rats that were also given the
carcinogen, but not the dietary MSM.

At the end of the study, the researchers discovered that the rats given MSM at
the beginning of the study did develop cancerous tumors. However, these
tumors appeared 130 days later than the rats which had received no MSM prior
to being given the carcinogen. This span of 130 days in the life cycle of
laboratory rats is equivalent — in the human life span — to about 13 years. As
the researchers reported, ―Time to appearance (latency period) of both tumors
and cancers were prolonged by 4% MSM.

No group exhibited toxic reactions or significant weight loss.‖ The study

concluded that 4% MSM was ―effective in the chemoprevention of
dimethylbenzanthracene-induced mammary (breast) cancers.‖ (6)

This study represents extreme conditions not seen under our normal levels of
everyday exposure to cancer-causing agents. So, in my opinion, it is reasonable
to assume that MSM may help prevent the onset of breast cancer in humans
indefinitely, especially when combined with other types of cancer-prevention
therapies.

COLON CANCER
Researchers from Ohio State University Medical College also conducted a study
on MSM as a preventative agent for colon cancer. In the study, rats were
injected with dimethylhydrazine, a compound that induces colon cancer. One
group of rats was given a 1% solution of MSM in their drinking water one week
before the dose of the colon cancer-inducing drug, and each day thereafter.
The control group of rats received only tap water to drink. The experiment
continued over a period of nine months.

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The results of the study showed that ―the average time to tumor onset was
significantly delayed in rats receiving MSM … In addition fewer tumors were
noted in treatment (MSM) groups. No weight loss or toxicity were observed.
These findings demonstrate that [MSM] significantly reduced the latent period to
tumor onset in DMH-induced colon cancer and indicate the need to further
investigate such compounds as chemopreventive (cancer-preventive) agents.‖
(7)

Again, these findings are even more significant when we consider that the
results were obtained under extreme conditions (direct injection with a
carcinogenic substance). I believe it is possible that under normal conditions,
MSM as a daily supplement may be able to prevent the onset of colon cancer
indefinitely, especially when combined with other cancer prevention factors
such as antioxidants, improved diet, etc. Dr. Jacob reports that further studies
on MSM‘s anti-cancer properties are continuing.

CONSTIPATION
In clinical studies, Dr. Jacob has observed that patients with chronic
constipation have prompt and continuing relief with a daily supplement of 100
to 500 mg of MSM per day taken orally.

EMPHYSEMA / LUNG PROBLEMS

In his initial use of MSM, Herschler discovered that MSM could produce
sometimes extraordinary relief from emphysema symptoms. One experience
involved a friend of Herschler‘s who had emphysema. ―Her emphysema was so
severe she could hardly walk from one side of a room to another … (soon) she
changed from a woman who couldn‘t walk across the living room to the back
door without running out of breath to a woman who not only could do that, but
could walk out into the yard … She got to the point where she could walk a third
of a mile to her mailbox and back again.‖ (1)

Further clinical studies have shown that lung problems (such as those caused by
bronchitis, pneumonia, cysts or heavy smoking) can also respond positively to
MSM supplementation when combined with proper exercise and eating habits.

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GASTRO-INTESTINAL PROBLEMS
MSM is reported to be effective for upset stomachs and for inflammation of the
sensitive mucous membranes in the body, including those in the gastro-intestinal
tract.

Research has shown that stubborn, recurring diarrhea or occasional bouts of

bowel discomfort can be dramatically relieved when MSM is incorporated into
the daily regime. Even severe diarrhea has been eliminated within a matter of
days with doses of 500 to 1500 mg daily of MSM. Gastric ulcers have also
improved with MSM treatment in clinical trials.

In addition, Herschler‘s research has demonstrated that other forms of

gastrointestinal discomfort caused by stress or produced by the ingestion of
aspirin, pharmaceuticals or by parasitic infections may be eradicated by MSM.
Such symptoms as diarrhea, chronic constipation, nausea, hyperacidity, or
inflammation of mucous membranes have responded dramatically to the oral
administration of 500 to 1500 mg of MSM daily.

LUPUS
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE; commonly known as lupus) is an
inflammatory tissue disease which causes periodic bouts of fever, fatigue,
painful joints and raised red rash on the skin. Lupus can also affect the heart,
spleen, lungs, kidneys and gastrointestinal tract.

Dr. J.M. Siegel (of the Oregon Health Sciences University in Portland, Oregon)
reported to Dr. Jacob that he had conducted experiments with MSM in treating
lupus in animals.

In one of his studies, mice bred for the propensity to acquire lupus were given a
3% solution of MSM daily in their drinking water, while another group was given
only tap water to drink. After seven months, 30% of the group not given MSM
died, while there were no deaths in the MSM group. (8)

In another study, a group of seven-month-old mice with advanced lupus were

given MSM in their water every day, while a group of similar mice were given
plain tap water. Nine months later, 62% of the MSM mice were still alive, while
only 14% of the mice given tap water survived. (8)

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MUSCLE PAIN
Research studies on individuals with injuries or various musculoskeletal disorders
showed significant improvement when MSM was added to their daily diets.
Taken in conjunction with ascorbic acid (vitamin C), the results were seen to be
faster and more dramatic than with MSM alone.

Clinical research confirms that MSM is capable of reducing or eliminating leg

and back cramps, muscle spasms and general soreness.

MSM is also widely used by professional athletes and by practitioners of sports

medicine. Its ability to relieve the pain of overworked or strained muscles has
been observed to be excellent, often dramatic. Injured players treated with
MSM have been reported to return to the playing field up to 75% more quickly
than injured players not treated with MSM.

Additionally, the anti-inflammatory properties of MSM appear to enhance

circulation. ―That‘s the name of the game in getting repair of an inflamed or
damaged part,‖ Dr. Metcalf, an MSM researcher, reports. Dr. Metcalf also
reports that his own lower back problems disappeared after he began taking
MSM.

PARASITES
Research has shown that MSM is remarkably effective in treating parasitic
infections both on the skin and internally. Fungal conditions on the skin respond
well to topical applications of MSM lotion or gel. An MSM spray is also an
excellent treatment for fungal conditions on the skin such as athlete‘s foot,
ringworm, etc.

Taken internally, MSM has been shown to be effective against giardia,

trichomonas and intestinal worms such as nematodes, enterobius and others.
Researchers believe that MSM may work against parasites by competing for
receptor sites on mucous membrane surfaces, which prevents the parasites from
bonding to the intestinal wall. This cuts off their nutrient supply and allows them
to be eliminated from the body.

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Effective doses of MSM for parasites have been shown to be 750 to 1500 mg per
day, which can be taken for a period of 90 to 120 days.

SCAR TISSUE
MSM patent information states that the restorative properties of topical MSM
lotions have been found to be effective in eliminating external scars (stretch
marks, burns or surgical incisions, etc.) while internal scarring responds to oral
MSM. Researchers report that they believe MSM works by softening the scar
tissue, thereby causing the damaged tissue to diminish in size or to disappear
altogether. MSM lotion can be applied several times each day, but be careful
to choose one with as few artificial ingredients as possible (additives can cause
rashes or side effects, diminishing the effectiveness of the MSM).

SCLERODERMA
Scleroderma is a possibly fatal tightening of the skin, usually occurring in older
persons. If severe, it causes the skin to shrink dramatically and tighten like a vise
around the organs.

In experiments with MSM, Herschler discovered that topical MSM lotion

significantly softened the skin, making it more elastic. Dr. Jacob conducted
research studies with scleroderma patients and confirmed that topical MSM
applications did provide substantial relief.

When I spoke to Dr. Jacob, he confirmed that MSM lotions, which generally
contain about 15% MSM, can be used daily, even several times a day, without
side effects.

SKIN, HAIR AND NAIL CONDITIONS

MSM is known to have an inhibitory effect on cross-linking of collagen and
protein which reduces the hardening of skin and connective tissue. This
property makes MSM an extraordinary treatment for improving the quality of the
skin, hair and nails. MSM lotions can be applied directly to the skin for treating
problems such as acne, burns, topical fungus or dry, aged, wrinkled skin. Apply
liberally to the skin and rub gently into the affected area.

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SNORING
In an Oregon Health Sciences University study, 35 sufferers of chronic snoring
were given MSM drops (16% water solution) in each nostril 15 minutes before
bed. Results showed 80% of the test subjects reported significant reductions in
snoring with no side effects whatsoever after 90 days of treatment. (9)

USING MSM WITH OTHER SUPPLEMENTS

Researchers discovered that MSM apparently increases the body‘s assimilation
of other substances taken in conjunction with it. This may be due to MSM‘s
reported ability to make rigid cell walls (caused by aging or damage) more
permeable, thus allowing for increased nutrient absorption. If you are taking
other supplements or medications, be aware that you may want to decrease
the amounts of the other substances you usually take when taking frequent
doses of MSM.

24
MSM FOR PETS
MSM has been used extensively by veterinarians for livestock and domestic
animals. MSM is excellent for promoting general good health and beautiful,
glossy coats. You can mix in 1/8 to 1/4 tsp. of MSM powder in your cats‘ or dogs‘
food as a daily supplement (1 to 2 Tbsp per day for horses).

25
CONCLUSION
There are many other conditions in addition to those already mentioned which
have responded favorably to MSM in clinical studies. I have listed these
additional applications in the ―How To Use MSM‖ section on page 26, to give
you a clearer idea of how you can apply MSM both internally and externally to
enhance and strengthen your overall health.

When it comes to MSM, I think Dr. Stanley Jacob says it best when he states that,
―MSM is a fascinating, life-enhancing agent.‖

26
HOW TO USE MSM
Internal Use:
The forms of MSM available for internal use are capsules and powder. You can
use either depending on your individual preference. Capsules are more
convenient for taking high dosages, but powder can be mixed in food or
beverages if you prefer.

As A Dietary Supplement:
250 to 500 mg per day is the dosage recommended by researchers for simply
supplementing your diet with MSM. Many MSM brands offer 500 mg capsules, so
that you can simply take one a day as a supplement (or 1/2 capsule for a 250
mg dose).

For Therapeutic Purposes:

Because of the non-toxic nature of MSM, researchers have found that even high
dosages can be taken safely for therapeutic purposes. The amount you need
really depends on the severity of your symptoms, the overall condition of your
immune system and how effectively your body is able to utilize the MSM. Other
factors such as body size and weight can also affect the amount of MSM you
need to take. I have given several suggested dosage levels for specific illnesses
in the preceding pages, but I will give you a few more general guidelines that
may help you to better determine how much and what form of MSM to take:

1. MSM must be taken frequently in order to be therapeutically effective.

When taking MSM to improve symptoms of illness, MSM should be
taken every day.

2. Researchers have generally used total daily dosages ranging from 250
to 2000 mg per day in treating illness. In severe cases, up to 5000 mg
per day for a limited time have been administered without side effects.

Noticeable results are usually seen in 1 to 21 days for less severe

symptoms. For more serious conditions, researchers report that higher
doses (2000 to 5000 mg per day) can be taken for up to 120 days.
When using large doses, it is best to divide your dosage into equal parts
to be taken throughout the day (for instance, for a 2000 mg dose, take
1000 mg twice a day, for 500 mg four times a day, etc.). If you have a
serious condition and want to try high dosages of MSM, working with

27
 your health practitioner is always a good idea in order to monitor
changes, improvements, etc., in your individual condition.

DRUG INTERACTIONS

Because of its non-toxic nature, MSM is non-allergenic and does not interfere or
interact with any other types of pharmaceutical medicines. Researchers report
that MSM can be taken in conjunction with all other forms of medication.

MORE INTERNAL APPLICATIONS OF MSM

• Chronic Pain
• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
• Candida
• Urinary Tract Infections
• Alzheimer‘s Disease
• Pneumonia
• Rheumatism
• Migraine Headaches
• Obesity
• Diabetes
• P.M.S.
• Liver Dysfunction
• Tuberculosis
• Hay Fever
• Hangovers
• Hormonal Imbalances
• Effects Of Radiation

EXTERNAL APPLICATIONS OF MSM

MSM Lotion
• Acne
• Bruises
• Skin Problems (Eczema, Psoriasis, etc.)
• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
• Varicose Veins
• Tendonitis, Bursitis, Joint Pain
• Muscle Pain (Cramps, Soreness, etc.)

28
MSM Spray
• Burns
• External Fungus (Athlete‘s Foot, Ringworm, etc.)
• Rashes & Sunburn

MSM Toothpaste
• Bad Breath
• Inflamed Or Bleeding Gums
• Natural Teeth Whitening
• General Dental Health

29
References

1. Sellnow, L., ―MSM: An Aid from Nature,‖ The Blood Horse, June 6, 1987

2. Jacob, S.W., and Herschler, R.J., Introductory Remarks: dimethylsolfoxide after twenty years. Ann
NY Acad Sci 1983; 411: xiii-xvii

3. Jacob, S.W., Oregon Health Sciences University, Portland, OR, personal communication

4. Jacob, S.W., Preliminary Evaluation of MSM (dimethyl sulfone) in Osteoarthritis, Oregon Health
Sciences University, April 1, 1997, unpublished paper

5. Morton, J.I., & Moore, R.D., Federation of American Societies for Exp Biol, 69th Annual Meeting, April
21-26, 1985, 692, 1985

6. McCabe, D., et al., Polar solvents in the chemoprevention of dimethylbenzanthracene induced rat
mammary cancer, Arch Surg, Vol. 131, 1455, 1986

7. O‘Dwyer, P.J. et al., Use of polar solvents in chemoprevention of 1, 2-dimethylhydrazine-induced

colon cancer, Cancer, Vol. 62, 944, 1988

8. Siegel, J.M., Jacob, S.W., Current Status of MSM, 1996, unpublished paper, Oregon Health Sciences
University, Portland, OR

9. Herschler, R.J., Diet & Pharm Uses of MSM and Comps Comprising It, U.S. Patent 4,514,421; April 3,
1985

30
Bibliography
1. Lovelock, J.E., et al., Nature, Vol. 237, 452, 1972

2. ―Sulfur,‖ Microsoft® Encarta® 1996 Encyclopedia

3. Ruzicka, L., et al., Helv chim acta, Vol. 23, 550, 1940

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5. Williams, K.I.H., et al., Prop Soc Exp Biol & Med, Vol. 122, 865, 1966

6. Pearson, T.W., et al., J. Agric Food Chem, Vol. 29, 1089, 1981

7. Williams, K.I.H., et al., Arch Biochem Ciophys, vol. 113, 251, 1966

8. Richmond V.L., J. Nutrition, Vol. 116, No. 6, June 1986

9. U.S. Patent 5,569,679; October 29, 1996

10. Herschler, R.J., MSM & Methods of Use, U.S. Patent 4,296,130; October 20, 1981

11. Wilmington Delaware Weekly, Hope Possible for Suff from Arth, July 10, 1997

12. Toxicology of Drugs & Chemicals, 4th Edition, Deichman & Gerarde, Academic Press, 1969

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Compounds. Progress Food Nutr Sci 1986, 10: 133-178

15. Pearson, T.W., Dawson, H.J., and Lackey, H.B., Natural Occurring Levels of Dimethylsufoxide in
Selected Fruits, Vegetables, Grains, and Beverages. Ann Chemical Soc 1981

31