DMSO 101

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In the world of natural health, few substances carry the enigmatic allure of dimethyl sulfoxide, more commonly known as DMSO.

Its journey from industrial solvent to alternative medicine darling has been nothing short of fascinating, peppered with controversy, fervent supporters, and lingering questions.

Initially recognized for its solvent properties in industrial settings, DMSO’s entry into the realm of natural health sparked intrigue and debate. What sets DMSO apart is its unique ability to penetrate biological membranes, including human skin, with remarkable efficiency.

This characteristic has fueled its exploration as a potential carrier for delivering medications transdermally, opening doors to innovative therapeutic possibilities.

However, it is DMSO’s purported health benefits that truly captivate attention. Advocates tout its anti-inflammatory properties, pain-relieving effects, and wound-healing potential. Some even hail it as a panacea for ailments ranging from arthritis to sports injuries.

Yet, amidst the fervor, questions linger about its safety, efficacy, and regulatory status.

DMSO’s relationship with methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) adds another layer to its mystique. Derived from DMSO through oxidation processes, MSM shares some of its purported benefits and has become a subject of interest in its own right.

Together, they form a dynamic duo in the natural health landscape, promising a deeper exploration into their shared properties and potential synergies.

As we delve beyond the surface, it becomes clear that DMSO’s journey in natural health is far from straightforward. Its enigmatic presence invites us to uncover the truths, myths, and possibilities that lie beneath, challenging us to navigate the complexities with discernment and curiosity.

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What is DMSO?

Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) is a colorless liquid with a distinctive odor that resembles garlic or oysters.

Chemically, it consists of two methyl groups, Carbon and Hydrogen, (CH3) attached to a sulfur atom (S) and an oxygen atom (O), with the molecular formula (CH3)2SO.

Originally discovered in the late 19th century, DMSO gained industrial significance in the mid-20th century as a powerful solvent used in various manufacturing processes. Its ability to dissolve a wide range of substances made it indispensable in industries such as pharmaceuticals, electronics, and plastics.

However, it was DMSO’s surprising capacity to penetrate biological membranes that caught the attention of researchers and sparked its exploration in the realm of health and medicine. Unlike many other compounds, DMSO has the remarkable ability to traverse biological barriers, including skin, with exceptional ease.

This unique property opened doors to its potential as a carrier for delivering medications transdermally, paving the way for its introduction into the world of alternative medicine.

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From Industrial Solvent to Health Miracle

DMSO’s journey from obscurity to a point of interest in alternative medicine is marked by several notable vignettes:

• 1960s: The Rise of Medical Interest: In the 1960s, Stanley W. Jacob, MD, and his colleague Robert Herschler at the University of Oregon Medical School began exploring DMSO’s potential medical applications. Their research suggested that DMSO could alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and promote wound healing, sparking widespread interest in its therapeutic possibilities. Dr Jacob is also considered the Father of MSM, as he was the first person to understand the process of converting DMSO into MSM as a safer alternative with just as much potential benefit.
• FDA Approval for Interstitial Cystitis: In 1978, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved DMSO for the treatment of interstitial cystitis, a painful bladder condition. This marked a significant milestone in DMSO’s journey into mainstream medicine, albeit for a specific indication.
• Controversy and Regulatory Challenges: Despite its promising potential, DMSO faced regulatory hurdles and controversy. Concerns about safety, purity, and potential side effects led to mixed perceptions within the medical community and regulatory agencies. This, coupled with the lack of comprehensive clinical trials, contributed to the ongoing debate surrounding DMSO’s role in healthcare.
• Continued Exploration: Interest in DMSO has persisted, with ongoing research exploring its potential applications in conditions such as arthritis, sports injuries, and neurological disorders. Its journey from an industrial solvent to a subject of scientific inquiry and alternative medicine fascination reflects the complex interplay between innovation, skepticism, and the quest for new therapeutic horizons.

In essence, DMSO’s historical trajectory embodies a convergence of scientific curiosity, medical exploration, and regulatory scrutiny, shaping its identity as a compound with multifaceted potential in the world of health and wellness.

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10 Cool Facts About DMSO:

1. Industrial Origins: DMSO was first discovered in the mid-19th century as a byproduct of paper manufacturing. It wasn’t until the 1960s that its medicinal properties were recognized and explored.
2. Antifreeze Properties: DMSO has significant antifreeze properties and was once considered as a potential alternative to ethylene glycol for use in automobile antifreeze solutions.
3. Veterinary Use: DMSO has been widely used in veterinary medicine to treat various conditions in animals, including arthritis, tendonitis, and inflammation. Its effectiveness in animals has led to interest in its potential applications in humans.
4. Cryopreservation Agent: DMSO is commonly used as a cryoprotectant in the freezing and preservation of cells and tissues for medical and research purposes. Its ability to prevent ice crystal formation helps maintain cell viability during freezing and thawing processes.
5. Transdermal Penetration: DMSO’s ability to penetrate biological membranes, including the skin, makes it a valuable carrier for delivering medications transdermally. It can enhance the absorption of drugs through the skin, facilitating their entry into the bloodstream.
6. Odor Association: DMSO is known for its distinctive garlic-like odor, which can be detected on the breath and skin after application. Some people even claim that they can taste garlic after using DMSO, due to its volatile nature and rapid absorption into the bloodstream.
7. FDA Approval: While DMSO is approved by the FDA for certain medical indications, its use in other conditions remains off-label and subject to regulatory scrutiny. This regulatory status has contributed to controversies surrounding its acceptance in mainstream medicine.
8. Industrial Solvent: DMSO is widely used as an industrial solvent for dissolving a variety of substances, including polymers, resins, and pharmaceutical compounds. Its high solvency and low toxicity make it a preferred solvent in many industrial processes.
9. Ophthalmic Applications: DMSO has been investigated for its potential use in ophthalmology, particularly as a solvent for certain medications used in eye drops and ointments. Its ability to penetrate ocular tissues makes it a promising carrier for delivering drugs to the eye.
10. Historical Medical Use: DMSO gained popularity in the 1960s and 1970s as a treatment for various medical conditions, including arthritis, sprains, and sports injuries. It was even hailed as a “miracle drug” by some enthusiasts, although its widespread use declined due to safety concerns and regulatory restrictions.

These little-known facts shed light on the multifaceted nature of DMSO and its diverse applications in medicine, industry, and research. Despite its controversies and challenges, DMSO continues to intrigue and inspire curiosity among scientists, healthcare professionals, and enthusiasts alike.

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DMSO’s Controversial Pantheon of Benefits

Pain and Inflammation:

DMSO’s mechanism of action in pain and inflammation involves several pathways and molecular processes within the body. While the exact mechanisms are not fully understood, research has shed light on some of the ways DMSO may exert its effects:

1. Anti-inflammatory Properties: DMSO exhibits potent anti-inflammatory effects, which play a crucial role in reducing pain and swelling associated with inflammation. Studies have shown that DMSO can inhibit the production of inflammatory molecules such as prostaglandins, cytokines, and leukotrienes. By modulating these inflammatory mediators, DMSO helps dampen the body’s inflammatory response, thereby alleviating pain and discomfort.
2. Antioxidant Activity: Oxidative stress is implicated in the pathogenesis of various inflammatory conditions and pain disorders. DMSO possesses antioxidant properties, meaning it can neutralize harmful free radicals and protect cells from oxidative damage. By scavenging free radicals and bolstering antioxidant defenses, DMSO helps mitigate oxidative stress and its associated inflammatory responses, contributing to pain relief.
3. Modulation of Nerve Function: DMSO has been shown to affect nerve function and transmission, which may contribute to its analgesic properties. Some research suggests that DMSO can modulate ion channels and neurotransmitter release, thereby influencing nerve signaling and perception of pain. By altering nerve function, DMSO may help regulate pain pathways in the central nervous system and peripheral nerves, leading to pain reduction.
4. Enhanced Drug Delivery: One of the unique features of DMSO is its ability to enhance the permeability of biological membranes, including the skin. This property makes DMSO an effective carrier for delivering medications transdermally, directly to the site of pain or inflammation. By facilitating the absorption of other therapeutic agents, DMSO may augment their efficacy and provide synergistic pain relief.

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Alternative Cancer Therapies:

Alternative cancer therapies involving DMSO have been explored in conjunction with conventional treatments, with the aim of enhancing treatment efficacy and mitigating side effects.

While DMSO itself is not considered a standalone cancer treatment, its unique properties have led to its investigation as an adjunctive therapy in cancer care. Here’s an overview of how DMSO is being explored in alternative cancer therapies:

1. Chemotherapy Potentiation: DMSO has been investigated for its potential to enhance the effectiveness of chemotherapy drugs by improving their delivery to cancer cells. Studies have suggested that DMSO can increase the permeability of cell membranes, allowing chemotherapy agents to penetrate more effectively. This can potentially lower the dosage of chemotherapy required for therapeutic effect while reducing the risk of systemic toxicity. Some research has shown promising results when DMSO is used in combination with chemotherapy drugs, leading to increased cancer cell death and improved treatment outcomes.
2. Radiation Sensitization: Similarly, DMSO has been studied for its ability to enhance the sensitivity of cancer cells to radiation therapy. By modulating cellular signaling pathways and promoting oxidative stress, DMSO may sensitize cancer cells to the effects of radiation, making them more susceptible to destruction. Preclinical studies have shown that DMSO can enhance the efficacy of radiation therapy in various cancer models, potentially allowing for lower radiation doses and reduced damage to surrounding healthy tissues.
3. Anti-inflammatory Effects: Chronic inflammation is closely linked to cancer development and progression. DMSO’s anti-inflammatory properties may help mitigate inflammation within the tumor microenvironment, thereby inhibiting cancer growth and metastasis. By suppressing the production of inflammatory cytokines and modulating immune responses, DMSO may create a less hospitable environment for cancer cells to thrive. While the direct anti-cancer effects of DMSO are still under investigation, its anti-inflammatory actions may contribute to its potential as an adjunctive therapy in cancer treatment.
4. Pain Management and Symptom Relief: Cancer patients often experience pain and discomfort associated with the disease itself or as a side effect of treatment. DMSO’s analgesic properties may provide relief from cancer-related pain and improve quality of life for patients undergoing treatment. Additionally, DMSO’s ability to reduce inflammation and swelling may alleviate symptoms such as edema and neuropathy commonly seen in cancer patients.
5. Adjunctive Therapy in Integrative Oncology: Integrative oncology approaches aim to combine conventional cancer treatments with complementary and alternative therapies to optimize patient outcomes. DMSO is sometimes included as part of integrative oncology protocols, alongside dietary supplements, acupuncture, and mind-body practices. While more research is needed to establish the safety and efficacy of these integrative approaches, they reflect a growing recognition of the importance of addressing the whole person in cancer care.

All of these options have a long way to go with research and development for us to truly know the impact and benefit it may or may not have, and using DMSO as a complimentary modality to other treatments should always be done with the strict guidance of your professional healthcare provider.

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Scar Tissue Reduction:

The potential for DMSO to reduce scar tissue formation and aid in scar management has been explored in various studies and clinical applications. While the exact mechanisms are not fully understood, several factors contribute to DMSO’s purported efficacy in scar tissue reduction:

1. Anti-inflammatory Properties: Inflammation plays a significant role in the formation of scar tissue. DMSO’s anti-inflammatory properties help reduce inflammation at the site of injury or surgery, which can in turn minimize the extent of scar formation. By inhibiting the production of inflammatory mediators and reducing immune cell infiltration, DMSO may create a more favorable environment for tissue healing with less scarring.
2. Fibroblast Modulation: Fibroblasts are cells responsible for producing collagen, the main component of scar tissue. Studies have suggested that DMSO can modulate fibroblast activity, potentially slowing down collagen deposition and promoting a more organized arrangement of collagen fibers. This may result in less conspicuous scars that are softer and more pliable.
3. Collagen Remodeling: DMSO has been shown to influence collagen remodeling, the process by which newly formed collagen fibers mature and realign over time. By promoting a more organized and uniform arrangement of collagen fibers, DMSO may help improve the appearance and texture of scars, making them less raised and noticeable.
4. Enhanced Penetration: DMSO’s ability to penetrate biological membranes, including the skin, allows it to reach deeper layers of tissue where scar formation occurs. This enhanced penetration facilitates the delivery of DMSO to the underlying dermis, where it can exert its effects on fibroblasts, collagen production, and inflammatory processes involved in scar formation.
5. Wound Healing Promotion: DMSO has been shown to accelerate wound healing by promoting angiogenesis (the formation of new blood vessels), enhancing tissue regeneration, and reducing the risk of infection. By supporting the natural healing process, DMSO may help minimize scar tissue formation and improve overall wound healing outcomes.
6. Topical Application: DMSO is typically applied topically to the skin in the form of a gel or solution. This direct application allows for targeted delivery of DMSO to the site of injury or surgery, where it can exert its effects on scar formation and tissue healing. Regular application of DMSO to scars may help soften and flatten them over time, leading to improved cosmetic outcomes.

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Neurological Conditions:

DMSO has garnered interest for its potential applications in neurological conditions due to its neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, and regenerative properties. While research is ongoing, here are some ways in which DMSO may assist with neurological conditions:

1. Neuroprotection: DMSO exhibits neuroprotective effects, meaning it can help protect neurons from damage and degeneration. Studies have shown that DMSO can scavenge free radicals, inhibit oxidative stress, and reduce inflammation in the central nervous system (CNS). By mitigating these harmful processes, DMSO may help preserve neuronal function and prevent neuronal loss in neurological disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and multiple sclerosis.
2. Anti-inflammatory Action: Chronic inflammation is a common feature of many neurological conditions and can contribute to disease progression and tissue damage. DMSO has potent anti-inflammatory properties, which can help suppress inflammation in the CNS. By inhibiting the production of inflammatory cytokines and modulating immune responses, DMSO may attenuate neuroinflammation and alleviate symptoms associated with conditions such as neurodegenerative diseases, stroke, and traumatic brain injury.
3. Neuroregeneration: DMSO has been shown to promote nerve regeneration and repair in preclinical studies. It can stimulate the growth and branching of neurites (projections from neurons) and enhance axonal regeneration after injury. Additionally, DMSO may facilitate remyelination, the process by which damaged myelin sheaths surrounding nerve fibers are repaired. These regenerative effects of DMSO hold promise for conditions involving nerve damage, such as spinal cord injury, peripheral neuropathy, and demyelinating diseases like multiple sclerosis.
4. Blood-Brain Barrier Penetration: DMSO’s ability to penetrate biological membranes, including the blood-brain barrier (BBB), allows it to reach target sites within the CNS. This enhanced penetration enables DMSO to exert its therapeutic effects directly on neurons and glial cells, bypassing the limitations of traditional drug delivery methods. By delivering neuroprotective and regenerative agents to the brain and spinal cord, DMSO may enhance their efficacy in treating neurological conditions and injuries.
5. Pain Management: Neurological conditions often involve chronic pain as a prominent symptom. DMSO’s analgesic properties may provide relief from neuropathic pain, which arises from damage or dysfunction of the nervous system. By modulating pain pathways and reducing inflammation in peripheral nerves and the CNS, DMSO can help alleviate neuropathic pain associated with conditions such as diabetic neuropathy, trigeminal neuralgia, and fibromyalgia.

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Emerging Research:

Emerging research on DMSO encompasses a wide range of areas, reflecting its diverse potential applications and mechanisms of action. Here are some of the latest areas of investigation in DMSO research:

1. Cellular Health and Longevity: Recent studies have explored DMSO’s potential role in promoting cellular health and longevity. DMSO has been shown to activate cellular stress response pathways, such as the heat shock response and the Nrf2 antioxidant pathway, which help protect cells from damage and promote their survival.
   Additionally, DMSO has been found to enhance mitochondrial function, improve cellular energy production, and stimulate autophagy, the process by which cells remove damaged components and recycle nutrients. These findings suggest that DMSO may have implications for aging-related diseases and age-related decline in cellular function.
2. Detoxification and Environmental Health: DMSO’s ability to penetrate biological membranes and dissolve a wide range of substances has led to its investigation as a potential detoxification agent. Research has shown that DMSO can enhance the excretion of toxins from the body, including heavy metals, pesticides, and environmental pollutants.
   By facilitating the removal of toxic substances from cells and tissues, DMSO may help reduce the body’s burden of harmful compounds and support overall detoxification processes. This has implications for environmental health and the prevention of toxin-related diseases.
3. Neurological Disorders: DMSO’s neuroprotective properties have prompted research into its potential applications in neurological disorders. Studies have shown that DMSO can protect neurons from oxidative stress, inflammation, and excitotoxicity, processes implicated in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).
   Additionally, DMSO has been investigated for its ability to promote nerve regeneration and repair in conditions such as spinal cord injury and peripheral nerve damage. Emerging evidence suggests that DMSO may have therapeutic potential in the treatment of various neurological disorders and injuries.
4. Cancer Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy has emerged as a promising approach for treating cancer by harnessing the body’s immune system to target and destroy cancer cells. Recent research has explored DMSO as a potential adjuvant therapy in cancer immunotherapy.
   DMSO has been shown to modulate immune responses, enhance antigen presentation, and promote the activation of cytotoxic T cells and natural killer (NK) cells, which play critical roles in immune-mediated tumor surveillance and elimination. By potentiating immune responses against cancer cells, DMSO may enhance the effectiveness of immunotherapies such as checkpoint inhibitors and adoptive cell therapies.
5. Drug Delivery and Nanomedicine: Advances in nanotechnology have led to the development of novel drug delivery systems that utilize DMSO as a carrier for delivering therapeutic agents to target tissues. DMSO-based nanoparticles and liposomes can encapsulate drugs and facilitate their transport across biological barriers, such as the blood-brain barrier or tumor microenvironment.
   These nanocarrier systems offer enhanced drug stability, prolonged circulation time, and targeted delivery to specific sites of action, potentially improving the efficacy and safety of drug therapies for various diseases, including cancer, infectious diseases, and neurological disorders.

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The Darker Side of DMSO

While DMSO has shown promise in various applications, it’s not without its drawbacks. Here are some of the known side effects associated with DMSO:

1. Skin Irritation: One of the most common side effects of DMSO is skin irritation, which can range from mild redness and itching to more severe reactions such as blistering and dermatitis. This irritation occurs because DMSO is a potent solvent that can disrupt the skin barrier and increase its permeability. Prolonged or repeated exposure to concentrated DMSO solutions can exacerbate skin irritation and may require medical attention.
2. Garlic-like Odor: DMSO is notorious for its distinctive odor, often described as resembling garlic or oysters. This odor is a byproduct of DMSO metabolism in the body, where it is converted into dimethyl sulfide, a volatile compound with a strong, pungent smell. The odor can be off-putting and may persist on the skin and breath after DMSO application, leading to social discomfort for some individuals.
3. Eye Irritation: Contact with DMSO can cause irritation and burning sensations in the eyes. Accidental splashes or exposure to DMSO vapors may lead to eye irritation, redness, and tearing. It’s essential to avoid contact with the eyes and use appropriate protective measures when handling DMSO solutions to prevent eye irritation and injury.
4. Systemic Effects: In rare cases, systemic effects such as headache, dizziness, nausea, and gastrointestinal upset may occur following DMSO exposure. These effects are more likely to occur with high-dose or prolonged use of DMSO and may warrant medical evaluation if severe or persistent.
5. Enhanced Absorption: As already stated, DMSO can enhance the absorption of other properties through the skin and into the bloodstream, including toxic substances.

The severity of side effects can vary depending on factors such as the concentration of DMSO, duration of exposure, and individual sensitivity. While most side effects are mild and transient, it’s important to use DMSO cautiously and follow proper safety precautions to minimize the risk of adverse reactions.

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MSM: A Kinship with DMSO

From DMSO to MSM:

Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) shares a close kinship with dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), both chemically and in their origins. MSM is essentially a direct metabolite of DMSO, exhibiting the same potential benefit, but because of the slight variation in molecular structure, it does not cause the negative side effects associated with DMSO.

MSM is derived from DMSO through oxidation processes, resulting in the formation of methylsulonylmethane, from which the acronym MSM is derived. This conversion occurs naturally in the environment, as DMSO oxidizes to MSM in the presence of oxygen and sunlight.

One of the distinguishing features of MSM is its lack of the characteristic garlic-like odor associated with DMSO. This odor is absent in MSM due to differences in molecular structure and volatility. Additionally, MSM is generally well-tolerated by most individuals and does not typically cause the skin irritation or systemic side effects commonly associated with concentrated DMSO solutions.