Patients with chronic constipation have had prompt and continuing relief with a daily supplement of 100 to 500 mgs of MSM orally. Unlike the yellow sulfur found near natural hot springs, the white sulfur in MSM is bound to an organic molecule, thus rendering it bioavailable for living creatures. MSM is a metabolite of DMSO, and both MSM and DMSO transfer sulfur through the global sulfur cycle. Sulfur originates from phytoplankton in the ocean, then evaporates into the air and is incorporated in the clouds, then falls to earth in raindrops, and finally is absorbed by plants. The MSM we ingest in fresh fruits, vegetables, and milk contributes essential sulfur for the synthesis of connective tissue, enzymes and immunoglobulin.
Sulfur is an important element in the formation and good health of hair and nails.
Fine food-grade MSM is commercially available. Much of this MSM found in plants, however, is lost in even the most minimal processing and handling. An example of this is found in the agricultural world. Fresh alfalfa contains measurable quantities of MSM, whereas it is almost non-detectable in dried hay. The potential benefits of MSM are numerous.