Penn Herb Wellness Guide
DMSO
DMSO (dimethyl sulfoxide) is a colorless, slightly oily liquid that is primarily used as an industrial solvent.
- Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
- Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
- For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement,little scientific support.
Our proprietary “Star-Rating” system was developed to help you easily understand the amount of scientific support behind each supplement in relation to a specific health condition. While there is no way to predict whether a vitamin, mineral, or herb will successfully treat or prevent associated health conditions, our unique ratings tell you how well these supplements are understood by the medical community, and whether studies have found them to be effective for other people.
For over a decade, our team has combed through thousands of research articles published in reputable journals. To help you make educated decisions, and to better understand controversial or confusing supplements, our medical experts have digested the science into these three easy-to-follow ratings. We hope this provides you with a helpful resource to make informed decisions towards your health and well-being.
This supplement has been used in connection with the following health conditions:
| Used for | Amount | Why |
|---|---|---|
Tendinitis | Apply a 10% gel twice per day under medical supervision |  [3 stars] Dimethyl sulfoxide is anti-inflammatory and may be applied topically to reduce pain and swelling. |
Osteoarthritis | Apply a gel containing 25% DMSO under the direction of a qualified healthcare practitioner |  [2 stars] Topical DMSO appears to be anti-inflammatory and able to relieve pain associated with osteoarthritis, possibly by inhibiting the transmission of pain messages by nerves. |
Rheumatoid Arthritis | Consult a qualified healthcare practitioner | [2 stars] When applied to the skin, DMSO has anti-inflammatory properties and alleviates pain, apparently by inhibiting the transmission of pain messages by nerves. |
Dupuytren’s Contracture | Refer to label instructions |  [1 star] Supplemental dimethyl sulfoxide applied to the affected area may reduce pain by inhibiting transmission of pain messages, and may also soften the connective tissue. |
Peptic Ulcer | Refer to label instructions | [1 star] DMSO is believed to have antioxidant activity and was found in one study to reduce relapse rates better than the ulcer drug cimetidine (Tagamet). |
Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy | Refer to label instructions | [1 star] Preliminary research suggests that DMSO gel may help relieve symptoms of acute reflex sympathetic dystrophy. |
Scleroderma | Refer to label instructions | [1 star] Therapeutic applications of DMSO are controversial but some evidence indicates that it has anti-inflammatory properties and alleviates pain when applied to skin. |
Sprains and Strains | Refer to label instructions | [1 star] DMSO has anti-inflammatory properties and may inhibit the transmission of pain messages by nerves. Supplementing with it may ease the pain of minor injuries. |
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The information presented by TraceGains is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. Self-treatment is not recommended for life-threatening conditions that require medical treatment under a doctor's care. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires December 2025.