What Is MSM?

What Is Methylsulfonylmethane?

MSM, or methylsulfonylmethane, is a naturally occurring organosulfur compound found in small amounts in many foods including fruits, vegetables, grains, and milk. Unlike the botanical herbs, fruits, mushrooms, and whole-food powders that make up most of our range, MSM is an organosulfur compound — a category of naturally occurring molecules that contain sulphur bonded to carbon. That distinction is worth noting: MSM is not a herb, a plant extract, or a whole-food ingredient, but it does occur naturally and is widely used as a dietary supplement.

Sulphur & MSM

MSM is one of the most concentrated dietary sources of organic sulphur. Sulphur is present throughout the body and is a component of several amino acids, including methionine and cysteine, which are involved in the structure of many proteins. MSM provides sulphur in an organic, water-soluble form that is readily absorbed.

MSM in Modern Research

MSM has been investigated in modern research in areas including exercise recovery, oxidative stress, and joint-related outcomes. Study designs, doses, and populations vary across the available literature, and research in these areas should not be interpreted as establishing MSM as a treatment for joint or inflammatory conditions. As with many dietary supplement ingredients, the research base continues to develop.

Naturally Occurring MSM vs Supplementary MSM

MSM occurs naturally in small quantities in many foods, but the amounts present in a typical diet are considerably lower than the doses used in research studies. Supplementary MSM is generally produced through a chemical synthesis process and is available in high-purity powder and capsule forms. The MSM used in dietary supplements is not derived from whole-food sources in the way that many botanical powders are.

MSM Powder vs Capsules

MSM is available in both powder and capsule form. Powder can be mixed into water or other liquids and may suit those who prefer to adjust their serving size. Capsules offer a convenient, pre-measured option for consistent daily use and are easy to incorporate into an existing supplement routine. Both forms deliver the same compound; the choice is largely one of convenience and preference.

MSM in Our Range

• Pure MSM Capsules | The Elemental Bridge — High-purity MSM in capsule form.
• Organic Cayenne & MSM Capsules | Spark & Structure — MSM combined with organic cayenne pepper.

Always consult a healthcare professional before adding any new supplement to your routine.

Further Reading

• What Is Fish Collagen?
• What Is Hyaluronic Acid?
• Nutrition for Healthy Skin