A small amount of MSM occurs naturally in many foods and beverages, though the amount is too small to permit extraction sufficient for commercial production. Like many other dietary supplements, MSM must be manufactured for both human and animal use.
The difference with MSM is that the manufacturing process closely parallels the natural process. In marine environments, MSM is created naturally when dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) is exposed to ozone and ultraviolet light. In an MSM production facility, DMSO is combined with hydrogen peroxide, yielding MSM and water.
MSM is approximately 34% sulfur by weight. For every 100mg of MSM taken, the user receives approximately 34 mg of elemental sulfur.
Human Supplements
The use of MSM for human benefit dates back more than two decades, and is a remarkably safe, effective, and versatile dietary supplement. It has been widely used to help support proper joint function and moblilty; preliminary studies suggest it may also have a preventative effect on cartilage degradation.
MSM has been used to safely treat muscle and joint pain, as well as inflammation, from exercise and other causes. It also appears to have a powerful effect on immune function, and several immune and autoimmune conditions appear to respond to MSM supplementation. Studies also indicate that MSM supports respiratory health by improving upper and lower respiratory symptoms due to seasonal allergies. MSM is also believed to have a mild inhibitory action on the enzyme cholinesterase, which is thought to account for its gentle laxative effect. The mechanism by which MSM supplements increase alertness and energy levels is still unknown.
Animal Supplements
PurforMSM® brand of MSM is a rich source of sulfur, a key constituent for healthy coat, nails, and hooves. Several pre-clinical and clinical studies support the efficacy of MSM in supporting joint health and range of motion. Research shows that MSM down-regulates inflammatory markers that damage cartilage, and protects cartilage integrity.