DMSO (dimethyl sulfoxide) is derived from lignan, the binding substance of trees. DMSO has unique ability to act as carrier, easily passing through cell membranes while transporting other substances across that would ordinarily be unable to cross the skin’s barrier, without causing significant damage. In 2007, the US FDA granted “fast track” designation on clinical studies of DMSO’s use in reducing brain tissue swelling following traumatic brain injury. DMSO has been used in veterinary medicine to lower intercranial pressure and cerebral edema following closed head injuries. DMSO is commonly used in veterinary medicine as a liniment for horses, alone or in combination with other ingredients. MSM, a sulfur compound closely related to DMSO, has many of the same properties, but lacks the distinctive oyster-garlic smell.

 

DMSO Research

More than 10,000 articles on the biologic implications of Dimethyl Sulfoxide have appeared in the scientific literature and 30,000 articles on the chemistry of DMSO have also been published. The results of these studies strongly support the view that DMSO is a truly significant new therapeutic principle. It a respected, approved pharmaceutical agent in more than 125 countries.

http://www.dmso.org/articles/information/muir.htm

Sulfur is a naturally occurring mineral that is found primarily near hot springs and volcanic craters, and in supplemental form as dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) and methylsulfonylmethane (MSM). DMSO is a chemical byproduct of papermaking and is used as an industrial solvent, as well as for medicinal purposes. Topical DMSO has been proposed as a treatment to relieve pain and inflammation of shingles (herpes zoster) as it may lessen the number of lesions and decrease inflammation. DMSO is approved by the FDA to treat interstitial cystitis (chronic bladder inflammation). DMSO (unlike MSM) is absorbed through the skin and may interact with other medications. About 15% of DMSO breaks down into MSM in the body. MSM is important in joint health and helps form connective tissue (cartilage, tendons, and ligaments). It may also slow the nerve impulses that transmit pain signals, reducing pain. Sulfur-containing mud baths (often called balneotherapy) can help treat skin disorders and arthritis. Sulfur baths, and other forms of sulfur applied to the skin, seem to benefit psoriasis, eczema, dandruff, and other skin conditions, as well as several kinds of arthritis, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and psoriatic arthritis.

http://www.umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/supplement/sulfur

DMSO’s remarkable versatility as a therapeutic agent comes from its molecular structure, which allows it to interact with water in unusual ways. The DMSO-water bond is 1.3 times stronger than the water-water bond. In the body, DMSO can pass through cell membranes as readily as water does without damaging the tissues, and it can replace water molecules within many bodily fluids. And, because DMSO so readily dissolves other molecules, it can also carry them through the cell membranes with it. “DMSO alters cell membrane permeability.” “It moves through membranes and substitutes for water so that it pulls substances through cells that ordinarily would not move through them.”

https://equusmagazine.com/lameness/dmso-for-horses-8468

 

DMSO with Aloe Vera

Because on its own it can sometimes irritate a pets sensitive skin, DMSO with added Aloe Vera is a better choice. Aloe Vera has a soothing effect on the skin and may help limit irritation.

http://www.essense-of-life.com/petproducts/P-602/DMSO-30-Aloe-Vera.html