MSM – where does the sulfur compound come from?

MSM, methylsulfonylmethane, is an organic sulfur compound that occurs naturally in many plants, in some vegetables, and in small amounts in milk.

From the sea to dietary supplements

MSM was first identified in seawater and is linked to the sulfur cycle in nature – certain marine algae release sulfur compounds that are returned to land via the atmosphere, which partly explains why the substance is found naturally in so many plants.

About sulfur

Sulfur is one of the body's most common elements and is found in many of the body's building blocks, including certain amino acids. MSM is heat-sensitive, meaning that a large part of the substance is broken down when cooking food – one reason why MSM is usually sold as a separate dietary supplement instead of relying on diet alone.

Uses

Outside of dietary supplements, MSM is also used industrially as a solvent in certain contexts, which is a different use than what you get from food-grade dietary supplements.

Good to know

MSM is generally considered well-tolerated, but always start with a lower dosage and increase gradually.

Usage

MSM powder can be mixed with water or juice.