I researched this question for over 10 hours and here is what I’ve been able to find out:
MSM is actually organic sulfur that is found in nature and in our bodies. This compound is needed for the structure of every living cell. The original benefits of MSM were discovered by Robert J. Herschlen, a chemical researcher, in the early 1980’s.
Neither sulfur nor MSM is listed in the DRI chart for Elements published by the IOM (Institute Of Medicine). From all the reports I’ve read it seems that the toxic level is close to that of water. Recommended doses are so widespread that I would suggest starting low and building up. I have found dosages from 500 mg/d to 8,000 mg/d. Most studies seem to be using around 2,500 mg/d.
Stanley W Jacob, M.D., Professor at Oregon Health Sciences University is the name most often found in reports on the benefits of MSM. He has been studying its effects for 20 years. His studies suggest the following:
*helps maintain barriers to allergies
*supports tissue pliability and encourages the bodies ability to repair skin
*sulfur is needed to form healthy bones, joints, ligaments, and tendons
*helps the body produce insulin
*helps digest starches, fats, and protein
*supports cell membranes that involve oxygen and carbon dioxide exchange
Other studies and reports are more limited in their scope. Studies at Ohio State University show that one benefit of MSM was that it slowed the growth of mammary and colon tumors in lab rats. A blind study by Dr. Ronald M. Lawrence of the UCLA School of Medicine showed that another benefit of MSM was that 80% of the participants had less joint pain while using MSM.
MSM originates from plankton in the ocean which releases DMS into the water. This is absorbed into the atmosphere where the ozone and ultraviolet sun rays turn it into DMSO or what we refer to as MSM. It falls to the earth with rain and is absorbed by all plants. There isn’t enough to harvest so it is made by oxidizing DMSO.
To answer my original question I do believe the health benefits of MSM make it an important supplement. So much so that it got it's own page on my website and it's own navigation button. Every study that I could find showed some benefit. Women that suffer from arthritis should definitely try this for pain and inflammation.
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