MSM is a metabolite of DMSO (dimethyl sulfoxide, an organosulfur compound that is approved for use in veterinary medicine only, not in humans). Like DMSO, MSM appears to improve cell wall permeability, so it may be used to enhance delivery of bioactive nutrients.
Perhaps most importantly, MSM helps protect against oxidative damage. Sulfur plays an important role in the production of glutathione - one of the body's most important antioxidants. Glutathione also serves important functions for detoxification.
Without sulfur, glutathione cannot work. So, while not an antioxidant by itself, part of MSM's action is to improve your body's ability to make its own antioxidants. Sulfur is emerging as a key player in nutrition because of its crucial roles in detox and anti-inflammatory pathways. Remember, if you don't have enough sulfur in your diet, you're not going to be able to naturally produce glutathione, which is absolutely essential for removing heavy metals and many of the toxins you're exposed to.
People who might want to consider using MSM include those who have:
- Chronic inflammatory conditions
- Aches and pains / sore muscles and achy joints
- Premature aging symptoms
- Toxicity
Like other sulfur compounds, MSM is a necessary building block for proteins, especially those found in the hair, muscles, and connective tissue of the joints and skin. Sulfur also is found in insulin hormone and bile acid. MSM, taken as an oral supplement, is able to cross the blood brain barrier.