Msm

Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is a naturally occurring organosulfur compound (C₂H₆O₂S₂) primarily used as a dietary supplement for joint health, inflammation reduction, and overall tissue support. It is commonly available in powder or capsule form and is taken to provide bio‑available sulfur, a building block for connective‑tissue proteins and antioxidant pathways.

• MSM’s IUPAC name is (methanesulfonic acid) methyl sulfone or dimethyl sulfone.
• Molecular formula: C₂H₆O₂S₂; molecular weight: 94.13 g/mol.
• The structure consists of a central sulfone (‑SO₂‑) group flanked by two methyl groups (CH₃–SO₂–CH₃).
• It is a polar, water‑soluble, non‑ionic compound with a melting point of 109 °C and a logP of –0.8, reflecting its high hydrophilicity.
• The sulfone group confers strong electron‑withdrawing properties, making MSM a strong hydrogen‑bond acceptor and a stable source of sulfur.
• Its crystalline form is a white, odorless powder, stable under normal storage conditions but sensitive to strong acids or bases that can cleave the sulfone bond.

• Commercial MSM is produced primarily by oxidative sulfonation of dimethyl sulfide (a by‑product of petroleum refining) followed by crystallization, yielding a high‑purity (>99 %) product.
• Natural sources contain only trace MSM; it is most efficiently obtained through synthetic routes rather than extraction from plants or animals.
• Quality‑controlled supplements employ recrystallization and HPLC‑based purity testing to ensure minimal heavy‑metal or solvent residues.
• Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) certified manufacturers often use pharmaceutical‑grade MSM with documented ≥99 % purity, low microbial count (<10 CFU/g), and no detectable heavy metals (Pb, Hg, As).
• Consumers should look for third‑party certifications (e.g., USP, NSF) to verify purity and absence of contaminants.