DMSO, or dimethyl sulfoxide, is a by-product of paper making. It comes from a substance found in wood.
DMSO has been used as an industrial solvent since the mid-1800s. From about the mid-20th century, researchers have explored its use as an anti-inflammatory agent.
The FDA has approved DMSO as a prescription medication for treating symptoms of painful bladder syndrome. It's also used under medical supervision to treat several other conditions, including shingles.
DMSO is easily absorbed by the skin. It's sometimes used to increase the body's absorption of other medications.
DMSO is available without a prescription most often in gel or cream form. DMSO is primarily used by applying it to the skin.
Why Do People Use DMSO?
DMSO has been used to try to relieve the pain of osteoarthritis. It has also been promoted as an "alternative" cancer treatment.
People have used it to try to treat wounds, burns, and other injuries. People have also used it to try to treat such conditions as:
- Headache
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Eye problems
- Scars
- Scleroderma (disease that causes scar tissue to form in the skin)
Source: WebMD
DMSO