DMSO

DMSO, or dimethyl sulphoxide, is a by-product of paper production. It comes from a substance found in wood. DMSO has been used as an industrial solvent since the mid-19th century. Since the middle of the 20th century, scientists have investigated its use as an anti-inflammatory agent. DMSO is used in the medical field to treat painful bladder syndrome and shingles, among other things. DMSO is well absorbed by the skin. It is sometimes used to increase the absorption of other drugs by the body. DMSO is available without prescription in many countries as a gel or cream. Although DMSO is occasionally found in supplements for oral use, the safety of oral use is unclear. DMSO is primarily used for application to the skin.

What is DMSO used for?

DMSO is used to relieve the pain of osteoarthritis. It has also been promoted as an alternative method of treating cancer. In addition, DMSO is used to treat wounds, burns and other injuries. Other uses include headaches, rheumatoid arthritis, eye problems, scars and scleroderma. For all uses beyond over-the-counter or prescription use, there is little or no scientific support confirming the effectiveness of DMSO. The American Cancer Society says there is no evidence to support the use of DMSO for the treatment of cancer. The use of DMSO for cancer treatment may result in a delay in the use of an effective form of treatment. A recent analysis of studies regarding the use of DMSO to relieve osteoarthritis pain concluded that DMSO is no more effective than a placebo in relieving joint pain.

Recommendation for use

There are no studies that provide guidelines for determining the correct dosage of DMSO for different applications. The gel used in the treatment of osteoarthritis had a concentration of 25%. This gel was applied to the skin four times a day. The concentration of DMSO in over-the-counter preparations can range from 10 to 90%.

Can DMSO be found naturally in food?

No, DMSO is a by-product of paper manufacturing.

Risks and side effects?

Some DMSO products available on the market may be of industrial grade. Industrial grade DMSO can contain a number of impurities that are easily absorbed through the skin and can cause potentially serious side effects. The most common side effects of DMSO applied to the skin include stomach discomfort, skin irritation and a strong garlic odor. More serious side effects include serious allergic reactions, headaches, and an itching and burning sensation where DMSO has been applied to the skin. DMSO can cause fatal reactions when used in high concentrations.

Oral ingestion of DMSO can cause dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and anorexia.DMSO can increase the effects of some medications, which can lead to serious health problems. Examples of such medications include blood thinners, steroids, heart medications and sedatives. The biggest problem with DMSO is that when it is applied to the skin as a solvent, it causes anything on the skin to be absorbed by the body. For this reason, hands and areas of skin to be treated should be washed before applying DMSO.

Pregnant and breastfeeding women should not use DMSO as too little is known about its effects on the fetus or infants.

If you suffer from diabetes, asthma or liver, kidney or heart disease, you should consult your doctor before using DMSO.