Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is most well-known as a dietary supplement, but the cream form boasts a variety of benefits. It’s made of a type of sulfur compound that already occurs naturally in animals, plants—and even humans. It’s been very popular in the alternative medicine world for years and can be a great option for those looking for a natural solution to ailments from pain to inflammation.
One of the most common reasons to use MSM cream is to help with joint pain and muscle pain. For those with joint degeneration (which is just about everyone at a certain age), you might experience pain in the knees, hands, hips, and back. Joint degeneration can be debilitating in severe cases, dramatically decreasing mobility and movement. However, studies have shown that MSM can drastically reduce inflammation, slow down cartilage breakdown, and increase mobility while minimizing pain. One study of 100 people aged 50+ showed that MSM decreased pain, swelling, and stiffness in the joints after 12 weeks of use.
Why to Use MSM Cream
MSM is naturally anti-inflammatory by increasing the levels of glutathione in the body. MSM also inhibits the protein complex NF-kB, which is part of the body’s inflammatory response. Plus, MSM also minimizes the cytokine production which plays a role in inflammation. One study of 40 active men showed that MSM reduced cytokine release and in turn stopped immune cells from being over-stressed.
Some use MSM cream to help speed up recovery after a workout by reducing muscle damage and fatigue. When we work out, muscles are damaged—that’s what makes them bigger and stronger. MSM is a natural way to help the body heal faster by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation. Another study has shown that using MSM for 10 days dramatically reduced muscle damage from exercise while increasing antioxidants.
Putting MSM to Work
The symptoms of arthritis can also be alleviated with MSM cream because it reduces stiffness and pain. Arthritis is a very common inflammatory condition, and there are over 100 types of arthritis (rheumatoid and osteoarthritis are the most common). Many arthritis patients count on MSM as an alternative to arthritis medication. Others use MSM to boost the effects of supplements, such as boswellic acid, for arthritis.
Some studies have shown that MSM can even help with allergy symptoms since it reduces inflammation. One common allergic reaction is “rhinitis,” which is what causes watery eyes, congestion, itching, and sneezing. All types of triggers cause allergic reactions, and those reactions cause the release of prostaglandins and cytokines in the body. Using MSM decreases these reactions by blocking their release.
Some people use MSM to boost their immunity and simply stay healthier. A poor diet, lack of sleep, illness, stress, and just about anything else can negatively affect our immune system, but MSM can help keep it on track. MSM cream can even keep skin healthy by increasing keratin production, helping to treat rosacea, eczema, and a variety of skin conditions. Try MSM out for yourself today, available at Shield-Safety.