Best MSM Supplements (2023)

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Methylsulfonylmethane, a.k.a MSM, is a substance that is found naturally in many foods such as meat, dairy products, and fresh vegetables. Moreover, it can be produced synthetically, which is the form that is usually found in supplements. The best MSM supplements are popular with those experiencing chronic pain.  

Its main benefit is to act as an anti-inflammatory that offers relief. Inflammation is connected to many medical conditions like allergies, arthritis, and skin conditions. [1] Furthermore, a study found that taking 3 grams of MSM before exercise prevented immune cells from overstressing and decreased the release of inflammatory cytokines. [2]

Also, it may aid in lessening joint and muscle pain. [3] A study shows that 32 people with lower back pain felt less aching and reduced lumbar stiffness when taking a supplement containing MSM. [4]

Additionally, taking MSM supplements may help with recovery after a workout. According to research, 22 healthy marathon participants took a placebo or 3g of MSM. Those who took MSM said they felt less muscle soreness and joint pain. [5]

What’s more, the best MSM supplements can also boost the immune system and improve health. It may also have cancer-fighting properties, however, more research is needed to build a more formidable conclusion.

Quick Summary

Best MSM Powder Supplement: Micro Ingredients MSM Powder

Most Affordable: Life Extension MSM

Best MSM Capsules: Pure Encapsulations MSM Capsules

Best MSM Supplements

Micro Ingredients MSM Powder

MSM CONTENT PER SERVING:

2600 mg

PRICE/SIZE:

~$26/1 kilogram

DOSAGE RECOMMENDATION:

Take 1 full scoop, mix into a drink, and consume once daily

Micro Ingredients is a leading brand in the industry as they continue to manufacture high-quality products. Its MSM powder supplement was created in this form for better absorption, higher concentration, and easier consumption. This is great for those who have a hard time swallowing capsules. 

Additionally, this is a vegan supplement that is free of fillers. To make it easier for users, there’s also a measurement scoop included in the package for correct measurement every time. It’s a bioavailable source of sulfur that also contains antioxidants and aids in protein-building. Moreover, this MSM supplement supports healthy joint function.

As for user feedback, many are satisfied with it. They mentioned that it’s easy to dissolve into their preferred drink. What’s more, a few mentioned that it relieves them from pain while others said it helps clear their skin. However, some mentioned that it had an unpleasant smell.

Pure Encapsulations MSM Capsules

MSM CONTENT PER SERVING:

1700 mg

PRICE/NUMBER OF CAPSULES:

~$50/250 

DOSAGE RECOMMENDATION:

Take 2 capsules, once to four times daily, with meals

As a brand known for its high-quality standards, Pure Encapsulations does not disappoint with its MSM capsules. It contains a unique synthetic form of MSM called OptiMSM®, which was tested for purity, effectiveness, and safety. Additionally, the ingredients used are the most bioavailable components.

This MSM supplement, if taken at the recommended dosage, can last for one to four months already. As for its benefits, it may help with supporting joint health and functionality. Also, it aims to improve the immune and respiratory systems.

Many users are content with how it affects them when they consume the capsules. Most of them mentioned that it helped with their joint problems. Plenty also said that it helped clear their skin and improved their hair health. Furthermore, some who are experiencing pain from medical conditions say it soothes their discomfort. 

Lake Avenue Nutrition OptiMSM Flakes

MSM CONTENT PER SERVING:

3 grams

PRICE/SIZE:

~$34/2.2 lbs

DOSAGE RECOMMENDATION:

Take 1 scoop of the flakes, and mixed in water or juice daily

Lake Avenue’s MSM supplement is produced in a third-party GMP facility to guarantee that standards are met.  It contains OptiMSM®, which has been proven to reduce oxidative damage, stimulate a healthy immune response, preserve glutathione levels, and lessen inflammatory markers, among other effects.

In addition, this MSM supplement aims to support connective tissues and also aid in improving joint health. The user feedback is mostly positive, as plenty of users said it helps relieve their joint pain and inflammation. Moreover, many mentioned it enhances their hair and skin health. Although some are not happy with its bitter taste, others said they experienced some side effects.

Jarrow Formulas MSM

MSM CONTENT PER SERVING:

1000 mg

PRICE/NUMBER OF CAPSULES:

~$15/200 

DOSAGE RECOMMENDATION:

Take 1 capsule, once to three times daily

This MSM supplement from Jarrow Formulas contains vegan capsules which certainly makes this an easy choice for some. The brand assures the public that each of its products is tested for quality, purity, and potency. As it stands, this supplement may aid in correcting issues related to connective tissues, which include joint cartilage and the skin.

The consensus is positive as many users enjoy its benefits, such as the exceptional packaging and reduced pain from medical conditions but particularly in their joints. Also, many lauded its impact on their skin, hair, and nails. What’s more, a few mentioned it helps lessen muscle soreness. Nonetheless, some are not satisfied with it because of the unpleasant smell and side effects.

Life Extension MSM

MSM CONTENT PER SERVING:

3000 mg

PRICE/NUMBER OF CAPSULES:

~$10/100

DOSAGE RECOMMENDATION:

Take 3 capsules, once or twice daily

This affordable MSM supplement is from Life Extension which is one of the leading brands in the industry. The brand even offers personalized guidance from medical doctors and other health professionals. Furthermore, for transparency’s sake, a Certificate of Analysis is provided by the company. 

This supplement aims to provide muscle comfort after workouts, maintain joint functions, and hinder oxidative stress. As for the user feedback, most of them like this MSM product.  Many mentioned it helps with reducing muscle and joint soreness after exercise. Besides that, a few mentioned that it aids with hair growth, while plenty is happy with how easy it is to swallow the capsules. It also helps in reducing joint pain and inflammation.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What are MSM supplements good for?

MSM has a nutrient profile that provides many health and wellness benefits, making it a popular ingredient in the best supplements. Its main benefit is to combat issues related to joint problems such as inflammation. 

One particular study even shows that it obstructs the breakdown of cartilage. [6] It may also be effective when it comes to treating arthritis, supporting immune response, subduing cancer-cell growth, and improving skin quality, among many other conditions.

What are the dangers of MSM?

Generally, consuming MSM is safe and tolerated by the body. Several studies concluded that taking an MSM supplement dosage of 4,845.6 mg daily is safe. [7] However, just like other supplements, some users may experience side effects. 

When applied to the skin, it may cause skin irritation and also cause issues such as nausea and bloating. [8,9] Moreover, caution should be practiced over mixing alcohol with MSM supplements since it contains sulfur. [10]

What do MSM supplements do to the brain?

So far, no evidence suggests it harms the brain. It does cross the blood-brain barrier, but no studies have a conclusion as to its effect. [11]

When should I take MSM supplements?

This will depend on the brand recommendation as they differ. Also, you may approach your doctor or a healthcare professional for a suggestion as to when’s the best time to take an MSM supplement.

Bottom Line:

As a substance, MSM is backed up by much research and studies to back up the claims of its benefits. Additionally, many users can back up the data as many of them are experiencing better health thanks to consuming the best MSM supplements. However, some side effects were noted, but the dangers can be reduced by talking to a healthcare professional. Nonetheless, MSM is still popular as the benefits outweigh the possible risks.

Disclaimer: This article is only a guide. It does not substitute the advice given by your own healthcare professional. Before making any health-related decision, consult your healthcare professional. We have assembled this article through in-depth research based on the information available at the date of publishing.  We may receive a small commission for purchases you make through our links, but this comes at NO extra cost to you. This commission allows us to continue doing what we love through Health Plugged, which is delivering evidence-based health information to our readers worldwide.

Editorial References And Fact-Checking

• Butawan, M., Benjamin, R. L., & Bloomer, R. J. (2017). Methylsulfonylmethane: Applications and Safety of a Novel Dietary Supplement. Nutrients, 9(3), 290. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9030290
• van der Merwe, M., & Bloomer, R. J. (2016). The Influence of Methylsulfonylmethane on Inflammation-Associated Cytokine Release before and following Strenuous Exercise. Journal of sports medicine (Hindawi Publishing Corporation), 2016, 7498359. https://doi.org/10.1155/2016/7498359
• Butawan, M., Benjamin, R., & Bloomer, R. (2017, March 16). Methylsulfonylmethane: Applications and Safety of a Novel Dietary Supplement. Nutrients, 9(3), 290. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9030290
• Tant, L., Gillard, B., & Appelboom, T. (2005). Open-label, randomized, controlled pilot study of the effects of a glucosamine complex on Low back pain. Current therapeutic research, clinical and experimental, 66(6), 511–521. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.curtheres.2005.12.009
• Withee, E. D., Tippens, K. M., Dehen, R., Tibbitts, D., Hanes, D., & Zwickey, H. (2017). Effects of Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) on exercise-induced oxidative stress, muscle damage, and pain following a half-marathon: a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 14, 24. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12970-017-0181-z
• Ezaki, J., Hashimoto, M., Hosokawa, Y., & Ishimi, Y. (2013). Assessment of safety and efficacy of methylsulfonylmethane on bone and knee joints in osteoarthritis animal model. Journal of bone and mineral metabolism, 31(1), 16–25. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00774-012-0378-9
• Liu, X., Eyles, J., McLachlan, A. J., & Mobasheri, A. (2018). Which supplements can I recommend to my osteoarthritis patients?. Rheumatology (Oxford, England), 57(suppl_4), iv75–iv87. https://doi.org/10.1093/rheumatology/key005
• Zhang, M., Wong, I. G., Gin, J. B., & Ansari, N. H. (2009). Assessment of methylsulfonylmethane as a permeability enhancer for regional EDTA chelation therapy. Drug delivery, 16(5), 243–248. https://doi.org/10.1080/10717540902896362
• Kalman, D. S., Feldman, S., Scheinberg, A. R., Krieger, D. R., & Bloomer, R. J. (2012). Influence of methylsulfonylmethane on markers of exercise recovery and performance in healthy men: a pilot study. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 9(1), 46. https://doi.org/10.1186/1550-2783-9-46
• Kaiser, L. G., Russell, D., Maschmeyer, T., Redfern, R. L., & Inglis, B. A. (2019, September 30). Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM): A chemical shift reference for  ¹H MRS of human brain. Magnetic Resonance in Medicine, 83(4), 1157–1167. https://doi.org/10.1002/mrm.27997