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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.

25

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).

26

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.‖

27

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

28

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.)

29

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

30

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

31

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