Dimethyl sulfoxide, or DMSO for short, is a chemical compound with a wide range of applications in fields such as medicine, industry and research.
Because DMSO is said to accelerate wound healing, relieve pain and reduce inflammation, it has increasingly attracted attention in recent years as an alternative remedy.
In this article we provide a comprehensive overview of DMSO, its properties, uses and potential risks.
What is DMSO?
Dimethyl sulfoxide (abbreviated DMSO) is an organic compound composed of the elements sulfur, oxygen and carbon.
This sulfur compound occurs naturally in the air, soil and water and is also obtained from lignin, a by‑product of pulp production. Lignin is a natural component of wood fibre. During the industrial processing of wood, lignin often has to be removed or broken down and then becomes available for the production of DMSO.
For this purpose, lignin is separated from the other wood components and subjected to oxidative cleavage, using chemical reagents such as oxygen, hydrogen peroxide or other oxidising agents. This leads to the formation of various intermediates, including DMSO.
Figure 1: DMSO is obtained from natural lignin, a by‑product of wood processing
After oxidation, the resulting mixture is purified and unwanted components are removed. This can be done by distillation, extraction or other methods to obtain pure DMSO. The DMSO obtained is often further processed to achieve higher purities that meet the requirements of various application areas. Crystallisation, distillation or other procedures are used here.
At room temperature, DMSO is a colourless, odourless liquid with high solubility in water and numerous other organic solvents.
Discovery of a versatile natural compound
Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) was first synthesised in 1866 by the Russian scientist Alexander Mikhailovich Zaytsev.
However, its medical applications were not intensively researched until the 1960s and 1970s by the American chemist Stanley W. Jacob, who is regarded as the "father of DMSO". Since then, DMSO has attracted much attention, particularly because of its unique chemical properties.
How does DMSO work?
The precise mechanisms of action of DMSO are not yet fully understood. What is clear, however, is that it can directly affect the cell membrane and increase its permeability.
There is evidence that DMSO interacts with the lipids of the cell membrane, thereby producing a penetration‑enhancing effect. It also improves the uptake of other active substances into the tissue. [1]
DMSO has anti‑inflammatory properties and can reduce the release of inflammatory mediators such as prostaglandins. By reducing the inflammatory response near cell membranes, DMSO can indirectly influence cell membrane integrity. [2]
It is important to note that the effect of DMSO on cell membranes depends on various factors, including the concentration of the DMSO product, the cells it is to act on, and the environment in which it is applied.
DMSO is metabolised to MSM
Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) is metabolised in the body to methylsulfonylmethane (MSM), another organic sulfur compound known for its anti‑inflammatory and analgesic properties. This metabolic process occurs in several steps and plays an important role in the biotransformation of DMSO.
After topical application or oral ingestion, DMSO enters the bloodstream. DMSO is highly permeable and can rapidly diffuse through cell membranes.
In the body, DMSO is subsequently oxidised by enzymatic processes. An oxygen atom is added to convert DMSO into MSM. This process is carried out mainly in the liver, the central organ for metabolism and detoxification.
Both DMSO and the formed MSM are eventually excreted in the urine. MSM is regarded as a stable and biologically active form of organic sulfur that can exert a variety of beneficial effects in the body.
The conversion of DMSO to MSM helps to enhance and prolong the positive effects of DMSO. MSM is often used as a dietary supplement to support joint health, reduce inflammation and improve skin health.
Overall, the breakdown of DMSO to MSM is an important biochemical process that links the therapeutic properties of these substances and supports their use in medicine and alternative healing methods.
DMSO in medical use
In conventional medicine, DMSO has long been known as a remedy and is suitable for both topical and internal use. Typically, DMSO is available as ointments, creams, sprays or as a liquid solution.
Because of its special ability to penetrate the skin, it is used to treat inflammatory conditions and pain. In addition, there is evidence that DMSO, besides its anti‑inflammatory and analgesic effects, also possesses antimicrobial properties. [3]
For self‑use at home, DMSO has proven useful as an adjunct treatment for the following complaints:
Acute (sports) injuries such as bruises, sprains, strains or swelling Bruises or circulatory disorders Osteoarthritis, arthritis and rheumatic diseases Acute pain conditions and allergies, but also for muscle soreness after training Acute and chronic inflammatory conditions
Muscles and joints
That DMSO can relieve inflammation and pain in muscles and joints has been demonstrated [4]. Among other things, DMSO causes fluid to be drawn away from the site of swelling, which reduces pressure on the tissue and the inflammation. As the pressure decreases, the pain also diminishes.
In addition, DMSO can temporarily "switch off" the nerves involved so that no pain signal is sent to the brain. However, this effect lasts only as long as it takes the body to fully metabolise the DMSO.
In acute injuries such as bruises, sprains, contusions or other painful conditions, DMSO is very popular because it can provide quick and simple relief of pain and support healing.
Figure 2: Areas of application for DMSO include bruises, sprains and contusions after sports injuries
Osteoarthritis, arthritis and rheumatic diseases
In Germany, around 45% of all people over 45 years of age suffer from complaints or degenerative chronic joint diseases [5,6]. A lifestyle of prolonged sitting, insufficient exercise and an unbalanced diet are often the triggers.
Especially with chronic joint complaints, sufferers often rely on painkillers. Besides the common analgesic medications, which often have side effects and can cause stomach problems, sufferers have only limited alternative treatment options. DMSO can offer an alternative here to relieve pain and suppress inflammatory processes.
Allergies
In addition to its analgesic, anti‑inflammatory and vasodilatory effects, DMSO can also help with allergic reactions on the skin. It relieves itching, reduces swelling and has anti‑allergic effects.
Studies have shown that DMSO can inhibit the release of histamine from mast cells, the main source of histamine in the body. Mast cells play an important role in allergic reactions and inflammatory processes because they release histamine and other inflammatory mediators when stimulated. [7]
DMSO – excellent for topical use
For joint complaints or pain, DMSO is primarily applied topically and rubbed onto the affected areas as an ointment or gel.
It penetrates the skin easily and promotes the absorption of other substances, which is why it is often used in combination with other medications to enhance their effectiveness. DMSO can promote tissue healing, reduce swelling and relieve pain.
With topical application, DMSO is absorbed quickly and efficiently through the skin. It passes through cell membranes and reaches the bloodstream. Once in the bloodstream, DMSO is transported through the body and reaches various organs and tissues, including the liver, where the majority of the metabolism takes place.
In the liver, DMSO is oxidised by enzymatic processes and broken down into MSM. After conversion to MSM, it is distributed in the body as a stable and biologically active form and exerts its beneficial effects, including anti‑inflammatory and analgesic actions. Ultimately, MSM is excreted in the urine after being filtered by the kidneys.
This process of converting DMSO to MSM makes it possible to harness the therapeutic benefits of both substances. While DMSO is rapidly absorbed through the skin and shows initial effects, the conversion to MSM provides a prolonged and stable effect in the body.
When rubbing in topically, be sure to clean the area thoroughly beforehand, as harmful substances on the skin can also be carried into the body under the action of DMSO.
Dosage forms
DMSO is usually applied diluted. The dilution for medical purposes depends on the specific application and the individual needs of the patient. However, there are some general guidelines for diluting DMSO:
Dilution with water: For many medical applications, DMSO is often diluted with distilled water. The ratio of DMSO to water can vary depending on the need, but typically a concentration of around 70% DMSO and 30% water is used. This ratio can, however, be adjusted to achieve the desired concentration for the specific application.
Dilution with other solvents: In addition to water, DMSO can also be diluted with other suitable solvents such as ethanol or isopropanol, depending on the requirements of the application and the patient's tolerance.
Individual adjustment: The exact dilution of DMSO may vary from case to case and should be determined by a doctor or specialist who considers the patient's specific situation. This can include the type of condition, the body region to be treated and other individual factors.
Figure 3: Please dilute! DMSO works best when combined with water or other solvents.
For the eye area, a sterile solution of up to 3% should be chosen; this can be applied directly as eye drops.
For use in body cavities such as the nose, mouth and ears, a somewhat stronger solution of approx. 15% is recommended. The solution can simply be dropped into the relevant body area.
Tips for use
The following rules should generally be observed to ensure safe use and storage:
- Store DMSO protected from heat and light
- Ensure that DMSO does not come into contact with surfaces or plastics, as it may damage them
- Pay attention to the correct dosage for the respective body area
- Before topical application, the skin should be cleaned to ensure the full spectrum of effects
In general, pure DMSO (99.9%) of pharmaceutical quality should always be diluted, as very high concentrations can cause damage to the skin, mucous membranes or the gastrointestinal tract.
The concentration of DMSO and the amount used should be guided by the body region to be treated.
When applying to the skin, it is recommended to massage the product into the skin to accelerate the effect. If DMSO‑containing products are to be used to treat acute pain, it is important to choose an effective concentration of up to 50% DMSO. This ensures the full efficacy of the agent.
It is important that DMSO is used on open wounds or burns only after medical consultation! This also applies to the use of DMSO‑containing products in the eye area.
If you would like to deepen your knowledge of DMSO and are looking for a practical everyday guide, you will find one here.
Figure 4: DMSO is a colourless, odourless liquid with high solubility.
What to look for when buying DMSO
DMSO is available in many different forms – as a cream, ointment, spray or as a liquid solution, such as DMSO from Unimedica. It is produced according to the standards of the European Pharmacopoeia and has a pharmaceutical purity of 99.9 percent.
When purchasing, particular attention should be paid to pharmaceutical quality and amber glass packaging. This ensures that the contents have been controlled and tested for impurities.
Pure DMSO solutions are best stored in the refrigerator. If the DMSO becomes viscous during storage, this can be reversed by gentle warming.
If, despite optimal storage, a foul odour develops due to decomposition, the product must no longer be used.
DMSO in industry and research
Because of its excellent properties and versatile applicability, DMSO is widely used in industry. It serves as a solvent in various fields, including organic synthesis, polymer chemistry and the electronics industry.
In scientific research, DMSO plays an important role as a solvent and reagent. It is frequently used in molecular biology, biochemistry and other areas of the life sciences, where it facilitates the separation and analysis of biomolecules. In addition, biological samples can be stored with dimethyl sulfoxide at very low temperatures.
Possible risks when using DMSO
In general, the side effects of properly dosed DMSO are manageable. Although DMSO offers a variety of benefits, potential risks must also be considered.
If dimethyl sulfoxide is applied to the skin at too high a concentration, it can cause irritations such as burning, itching, redness and other unwanted side effects.
Another potential risk is the increased permeability of the skin, which could raise the risk of toxicity from other substances combined with DMSO. It is therefore important to use DMSO under the guidance of a qualified therapist.
Oral ingestion of DMSO can cause, among other things, nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea. Topical application is preferred in most cases. DMSO can in some cases trigger the release of histamine, which can be associated with allergy‑like symptoms. Symptoms such as skin redness, itching, dry skin, rash, headache and dizziness can occur in rare cases. In severe, but very rare cases, shortness of breath may occur. Observed side effects were for the most part transient and dose‑dependent. [8]
Therefore use DMSO cautiously and in high dilution if you are allergic or generally sensitive to medications. In such cases, ingestion should be discussed with a doctor or a qualified practitioner.
Conclusion
DMSO is a versatile chemical compound with a wide range of potential applications. Its unique chemical properties make it a valuable agent for various health complaints.
Particularly for sports injuries and joint complaints, DMSO can be used as an additional option alongside established medications and therapeutic interventions to relieve symptoms and support the healing process.
Especially in chronic diseases, you should not rely on a single remedy, but aim for a holistic approach that combines several measures.
Sources
[2]: New insights of dimethyl sulphoxide effects (DMSO) on experimental in vivo models of nociception and inflammation - ScienceDirect
[3] In vitro antimicrobial activity of dimethylsulfoxide (asm.org)
[4] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31987604/ https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0171298519303729?via%3Dihub
[5] https://www.gelbe-liste.de/krankheiten/arthrose
[7] Dimethyl sulfoxide inhibits histamine release induced by various chemicals - PubMed [nih.gov]
[8]: https://f1000research.com/articles/7-1746/v2
Photos: Unsplash: Tim Schmidbauer, Getty Images, engin akyurt; Shutterstock: miwa-in-oz
