The Natural Origin of MSM
Methylsulfonylmethane is an organic sulfur compound that is a natural part of the planet's sulfur cycle. This complex process begins in the ocean with marine algae and phytoplankton, which release sulfur compounds that eventually form dimethyl sulfide (DMS). DMS is a gas that is highly volatile and escapes into the atmosphere. Once airborne, DMS is oxidized by ozone and UV light, leading to the formation of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) and eventually MSM. This MSM then falls back to Earth dissolved in rain, where it is absorbed by plants.
Animals, including humans, then consume these plants and incorporate the MSM into their bodies. A wide range of raw foods, such as milk, coffee, tea, vegetables (like garlic and kale), fruits, and grains, naturally contain trace amounts of MSM. However, MSM is a volatile substance, and modern food handling techniques—including heating, freezing, and processing—cause the levels of MSM to decrease dramatically. For instance, pasteurized milk contains significantly less MSM than raw milk from grazing cows. Because of these low and often inconsistent levels, it is virtually impossible to obtain a therapeutic dose of MSM from diet alone.
The Synthetic Production of MSM
Due to the impracticality of extracting usable quantities of MSM from natural sources, all commercial MSM supplements are synthetically produced in a controlled laboratory setting. This process, however, closely mimics the natural oxidation that occurs in the atmosphere.
The most common method for producing commercial MSM involves oxidizing its precursor compound, DMSO, using hydrogen peroxide. After the oxidation step, the raw MSM must be purified to remove impurities and residual DMSO. The two primary purification methods are:
- Distillation: This energy-intensive but superior method involves heating the MSM to evaporate and then recondense the pure compound, leaving impurities behind. High-quality, branded MSM products, like OptiMSM®, are often purified through a multi-stage distillation process to achieve a minimum of 99.9% purity. This method effectively removes heavy metals and other contaminants.
- Crystallization: A less expensive method where the raw MSM mixture is cooled until it forms crystals, which are then separated from the liquid. This process is less effective at removing contaminants, and microscopic analysis can reveal impurities in the final product.
Natural vs. Synthetic MSM: Is There a Difference?
From a chemical perspective, there is no detectable structural or safety difference between naturally occurring MSM and the manufactured product. The molecule is exactly the same, regardless of its origin. Any debate regarding the "naturalness" of MSM supplements is largely a branding issue rather than a chemical one.
Comparison Table: Natural vs. Synthetic MSM
| Feature | Natural MSM | Synthetic MSM (Supplements) |
|---|---|---|
| Source | Plants, animals, and rain cycle | Laboratory manufacturing via chemical reactions |
| Quantity | Extremely small, trace amounts (parts per million) | Highly concentrated, commercially viable quantities |
| Availability | Dependent on diet, quickly lost through processing | Readily available in supplement form (powder, capsules) |
| Chemical Structure | Identical to synthetic version | Identical to natural version |
| Purity | Not applicable; part of a whole food matrix | Varies based on manufacturing/purification (distillation vs. crystallization) |
| Dosage | Inadequate for therapeutic effects | Enables intake of therapeutic doses (typically 1–6 grams) |
The Importance of Purity in MSM Supplements
Since the source of all commercially available MSM is synthetic, the primary concern for consumers should be the purity of the end product, not its origin. Impurities can include residual solvents, heavy metals, or other contaminants from the manufacturing process. This is why the method of purification, particularly distillation, is a key indicator of quality.
Benefits of Supplementing with MSM
Despite its synthetic nature in supplement form, MSM offers numerous scientifically-backed health benefits. It acts as a bioavailable source of organic sulfur, which is essential for various bodily functions. These benefits include:
- Relief from joint pain: Studies show MSM can reduce pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis.
- Anti-inflammatory effects: MSM has been shown to reduce inflammatory cytokines, offering relief for conditions like seasonal allergies.
- Antioxidant support: It can increase the body's antioxidant capacity and reduce oxidative stress.
- Skin, hair, and nail health: As a sulfur donor, MSM supports the production of keratin and collagen, which are vital for connective tissues.
Conclusion
To answer the question, "Is MSM natural or synthetic?" most accurately, one must understand both sides of its story. MSM is a naturally occurring compound, but the form you purchase as a dietary supplement is always synthetic. This manufacturing process is necessary to produce the high concentrations needed for therapeutic doses, as the amount found in food is too small and easily degraded. Critically, the synthetic and natural molecules are chemically identical, so the origin does not affect its biological activity. Ultimately, when choosing an MSM supplement, focusing on high-purity, lab-tested products from reputable manufacturers is far more important than debating its natural versus synthetic status.
For more detailed scientific information on MSM's mechanisms and safety, consult the study published by the National Institutes of Health (NIH).
