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MSM
Methylsulfonylmethane

Classification of MSM
A great deal is written and has been discussed to decide if MSM should be qualified as a "natural" ingredient - but a straight forward answer would be to say that MSM is natural, as it is an organic bound sulfur occurring in almost every living thing.
The MSM found in nature is however so microscopic that it has to be manufactured in order to make it commercially available.
MSM originates from the ocean, where the plankton releases sulfur compounds into the seawater which is then converted to DMS - a volatile ingredient which then escapes into the atmosphere. The DMS then reacts to the ozone and ultraviolet light to create DMSO and DMSO2 - MSM. This then comes down to earth in rainwater where it is taken up by plants.
MSM is commercially made by combining sulfur with paper mill pulp liquids to form DMS and is then purified and processed under pressure and heat, and further filtered and distilled to manufacture pure MSM.

Description of MSM
MSM is touted as the fountain of youth, slayer of arthritis and nearly any other kind of disease. MSM offers a vast variety of benefits to the human body.

Properties of MSM
The sulfur contained in MSM is a natural ingredient in most living tissue, and is required for optimal health. It is however important that the MSM used be purified and free of contaminants and heavy metals.

Therapeutic use
Internal use
MSM helps to maintain natural barriers to allergies, it supports tissue pliability and encourages skin repair.
The sulfur (part of MSM) is needed to form healthy bones, joints, ligaments, and tendons and furthermore helps the body to produce insulin.
It is also involved in the digestion of starches, fats, and protein, and supports the cell membranes that work with oxygen and carbon dioxide exchange.
Some studies have shown that it may be of benefit in slowing the growth of tumors, and that it decreases joint pain.
External use
In topical application, MSM helps relieve painful muscles and joints, and is also of value in repairing the skin from any type of injury or ailment.
It is most useful in the treatment of arthritis and other diseases where joint pain is experienced, as well as muscular pains and aches.
On the skin it is useful in the treatment of skin disorders such as psoriasis, eczema, and dermatitis. The sulfur contained in MSM is also used in the skin for collagen synthesis.
The sulfur in the MSM helps to keep the collagen fibers in the skin flexible and prevents cross-linking of these fibers (cross-linking is normally seen in old aged skin).
The sulfur also helps the body to produce more sulfur bonds, and in so doing keep the skin even more pliable and wrinkle free.

Safety precautions and warnings

None noted, but diarrhea, nausea and headaches are side effects reported by some people taking it internally.