Frequently Asked Questions About DMSO

What is DMSO?

DMSO (Dimethyl Sulfoxide) is a colorless, odorless organic solvent with remarkable penetration properties. Originally discovered in 1866, it's derived from wood pulp and has been studied extensively for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and analgesic (pain-relieving) properties. DMSO is unique because it can penetrate skin and cell membranes rapidly, carrying other substances with it.

How does DMSO work?

DMSO works through multiple mechanisms:

• Penetration: It passes through biological membranes easily
• Anti-inflammatory: Reduces inflammation by inhibiting inflammatory mediators
• Antioxidant: Scavenges free radicals and protects cells from oxidative damage
• Pain relief: Blocks nerve conduction, reducing pain signals
• Carrier effect: Enhances delivery of other therapeutic compounds through the skin

What is DMSO used for?

DMSO is used for numerous conditions including:

• Arthritis and joint pain
• Muscle injuries and sprains
• Inflammation reduction
• Skin conditions (scars, burns, acne)
• Pain management
• Respiratory conditions
• As a carrier for other therapeutic compounds

Note: DMSO is FDA-approved only for interstitial cystitis, but has many documented traditional and alternative medicine uses.

Is DMSO safe to use?

When used properly, pharmaceutical-grade DMSO is generally safe. However, important safety precautions include:

• Always use pharmaceutical-grade DMSO (never industrial grade)
• Apply only to clean, dry skin to avoid carrying contaminants into the body
• Start with lower concentrations (20–30%) and increase gradually
• Conduct a patch test first
• Avoid use during pregnancy or breastfeeding
• Always consult a healthcare professional before use, especially if you have medical conditions or take medications

Why does DMSO cause a garlic smell or taste?

When DMSO is absorbed through the skin or taken orally, it's metabolized by the body into dimethyl sulfide (DMS), which has a characteristic garlic or oyster-like odor. This metabolite is exhaled through the lungs and excreted in sweat, creating a noticeable smell on the breath and body.

Pure DMSO itself is odorless—the smell only appears after it's processed by your body. This is temporary and harmless, typically lasting several hours.

How do you dilute DMSO?

DMSO can be diluted with distilled water or carrier oils:

Water Dilution:

• Use only distilled or purified water
• Common concentrations: 20–30% for face/thin skin; 50–70% for body/thicker skin
• Mix thoroughly in glass containers

Oil Dilution (topical only):

• Use pure carrier oils: castor, jojoba, coconut, or olive oil
• Same concentration guidelines apply
• Slows absorption and reduces skin irritation

Important: Always mix in glass containers and use immediately or store in dark glass bottles.

What are the side effects of DMSO?

Common side effects:

• Garlic or oyster-like breath and body odor
• Mild skin irritation or redness at application site
• Dry skin
• Headache (occasionally)
• Nausea (with oral use)

Rare but serious concerns:

• Allergic reactions or severe skin irritation
• Eye lens changes (reported in animal studies with very high doses)
• Potential interactions with medications

Stop use and consult a healthcare provider if you experience: severe irritation, persistent symptoms, or allergic reactions.

Can I use DMSO with essential oils?

Yes, but with extreme caution. DMSO greatly enhances the absorption of essential oils, making them much more potent.

Safety guidelines:

• Essential oils should never exceed 4% of the total blend
• Topical use only (never oral or nebulized)
• Always dilute in a carrier oil first
• Patch test before full application
• Avoid near eyes, mucous membranes, or broken skin

See our DMSO + Oils Guide for detailed information.

How long does it take for DMSO to work?

DMSO is absorbed rapidly through the skin, usually within minutes. Pain relief and anti-inflammatory effects may be noticed within 15–30 minutes for acute conditions.

For chronic conditions, consistent use over days to weeks may be needed to see full benefits. Response time varies depending on:

• The condition being treated
• Concentration used
• Application method
• Individual physiology

Where can I buy pharmaceutical-grade DMSO?

Pharmaceutical-grade DMSO can be purchased from:

• Health food stores
• Online health retailers
• Veterinary supply stores (ensure it's labeled for use with animals, indicating purity)
• Compounding pharmacies

Always verify:

• It's labeled as pharmaceutical or medical grade
• Shows purity percentage (99.9% or higher is ideal)
• Comes in glass containers
• Includes safety information

Never use industrial-grade DMSO, which may contain harmful contaminants.

Can I take DMSO orally?

DMSO can be taken orally, but requires careful dilution and medical guidance.

For oral use:

• Never exceed 20% concentration
• Typical dose: ½–1 teaspoon in a full glass of water or juice
• Take after meals to reduce stomach upset
• Start with very small amounts and increase gradually
• Always consult a healthcare professional first

Oral use may cause stronger garlic taste/breath and digestive upset compared to topical application.

Does DMSO really work for arthritis and pain?

Research shows mixed results for arthritis, though many users report significant benefits. DMSO has:

• Documented anti-inflammatory properties
• Ability to reduce swelling in joints
• Pain relief through multiple mechanisms
• Enhanced delivery of other pain-relieving compounds

While some clinical trials show modest benefits, individual responses vary greatly. It's widely used in veterinary medicine for similar conditions in animals with reported success.

Explore our Protocol Library for specific arthritis and pain protocols.