MSM
MSM is widely acclaimed by veterinarians and horsemen for its contribution to equine health care. Research has shown MSM’s importance as a dietary source of sulfur. Sulfur from methylsulfonylmethane is used in the formation of numerous protein-rich structures in the body. MSM contributes sulfur to the disulfide bonds that are essential for the proper conformation of hair, horn and connective tissue proteins, such as collagen. Even hormones and antibodies receive sulfur from MSM. Like vitamin B12, methionine, and DMG, MSM is a potential methyl donor.
MSM has also been found to be helpful as an anti-parasitic. Oregon Health Sciences University researchers have found that MSM has anti-parasitic properties against giardia. The research done on MSM – Nutritional Sulfur has shown it to be helpful in setting up an environment in the gut where Giarda does not like to multiply, so MSM must become a daily supplement to keep levels low.
Methylsulfonylmethane is found in very small amounts in most vegetables, fruits and grains, but it is easily lost due to its volatile nature. The heat and water processing of commercially prepared pet foods and horse/livestock feeds destroys methylsulfonylmethane. The animal’s diet is likely to contain insignificant amounts unless it consists primarily of raw, fresh grain or forage.
We use MSM for natural effective relief of inflammation and pain issues. MSM has properties similar to aspirin, without the possible aspirin/ibuprofin and similar aspirin side effects. MSM is excellent for joint or muscle pain relief. We find it best to dose it 3x/day for optimum inflammation and pain relief. I personally take MSM on a day I plan on “killing myself” (you ALL know what I’m talking about here!!) – i.e., digging post holes, pouring concrete, putting up lots of fencing and a day or two afterwards to PREVENT feeling the aches and pains I would normally feel from the overwork.
Pure MSM is also an excellent natural solution for post surgical inflammation and pain. Make sure to keep an eye on your pet or animal as pure MSM can reduce pain too well causing the animal, pet, or person to over exert, so if you notice your pet or animal exercising too much after surgery, back off on the dose or remove it altogether, so they will settle down, feel the pain, and rest like they need to.