That’s when he noticed something odd: it did not just preserve tissue—it seemed to heal it.
He rubbed it on his skin, which produced a light oyster or garlic-like taste within minutes. That’s how fast DMSO enters the bloodstream. It became his life’s mission.
Its effects are almost immediate—once applied, it rapidly absorbs into the skin, allowing its properties to start working.
In the 1970s, as the public began experimenting with DMSO for a variety of conditions, including pain relief, arthritis, and other chronic ailments, it quickly gained traction.
However, this swift popularity caught the attention of the FDA, which put the brakes on its widespread use. With its distinctive oyster/garlic-like odor and lack of extensive scientific understanding at the time, DMSO faced skepticism from regulators.
Despite the resistance, Dr. Jacob, a passionate advocate for DMSO’s potential, remained undeterred. He continued his efforts to promote research and raise awareness, steadfast in his belief that the compound held significant healing potential, even as regulatory hurdles mounted. Finally, in 1978, DMSO was approved by the FDA for interstitial cystitis—a painful bladder condition.
While most uses of DMSO remained off-label, animals—particularly racehorses—were receiving top-tier treatment.
3. How It Works: The Science Behind the Magic
Chemical Formula: (CH₃)₂SO
Melting Point: ~18.5°C
Boiling Point: ~189°C
What Makes It So Unique:
1. Transdermal Power: It penetrates the skin barrier without breaking a sweat
2. Carrier Action: DMSO is like an Uber for molecules—it can carry vitamins or medications through your skin
3. Anti-inflammatory: Reduces swelling and pain
4. Analgesic (Pain Killer): Calms nerve pain quickly
5. Antioxidant: Neutralizes harmful free radicals
Most creams beg your skin to let them in. DMSO walks through the wall like it owns the place.
4. Where it is Used
(Hint: Not Just on Racehorses)
It’s easy to dismiss DMSO as a forgotten compound when few know about its use in everything from mainstream medicine to behind-the-scenes breakthroughs.
A. In Human Medicine:
• Interstitial Cystitis – The Only FDA-Approved Use (So Far)
Interstitial cystitis (IC) is a painful bladder condition with very few treatment options. DMSO, under the brand name Rimso-50, is the only FDA-approved treatment for this stubborn, chronic condition. It's delivered directly into the bladder via a catheter, where it reduces inflammation and pain. Clinical studies show DMSO can reduce pain, frequency of urination, and bladder wall thickening (Parsons et al., 1994).
It is like a fire extinguisher for inflamed bladders.
• Sprains, Strains, and Bruises – Targeted Relief for Activity-Induced Strain
Twist your ankle? Pull a muscle? DMSO penetrates deep into tissue, reducing inflammation and easing pain in minutes. Athletes, dancers, runners, performers, and fitness enthusiasts love it because it’s fast, effective, and doesn’t just mask pain—it helps hasten healing.
It produces a simultaneous cooling and warming sensation while actively supporting cellular repair.
• Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) – Nerve Pain Relief, Naturally
CRPS is an excruciating nerve condition that often follows injury. It is notoriously hard to treat. Some European clinics use topical DMSO (50%) in pain management protocols. Why? It reduces inflammation, modulates nerve pain, and even helps with discoloration and swelling.
For some CRPS sufferers, DMSO is the only thing that even touches the pain.
Reference: Studies in Germany support its use as part of early CRPS treatment plans (Zuurmond et al., 1996).
• Burns, Cuts, and Scar Tissue – The Gentle Rebuilder
DMSO is a cell regenerator. It supports healing by improving blood flow, reducing swelling, and preventing scar tissue from forming excessively. It’s used on burn victims and post-surgical incisions to support faster healing and minimize long-term scarring. Traditionally, it is applied alongside aloe vera to enhance gentle tissue restoration.
Not just restoration—pure and natural restoration.
• Autoimmune and Lyme Flare-Ups – Promising but Experimental
Although not officially approved for these conditions, some natural health practitioners use DMSO as part of Lyme disease protocols or to help manage autoimmune flare-ups like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis. Why? It reduces inflammation, calms overactive immune responses, and helps carry herbal or pharmaceutical remedies deeper into tissues.
Note: Always work with a knowledgeable practitioner for these uses—DMSO isn’t one-size-fits-all.
B. In Animal Medicine: It is a Vet’s Liquid Gold
• Racehorses with Swollen Joints or Injuries
If a horse vet isn’t carrying DMSO, they’re missing an essential medicine.
DMSO’s veterinary fame started with racehorses—but it’s since become a go-to for all kinds of four-legged friends.
When a high-dollar thoroughbred pulls a tendon or swells up after a race, DMSO is usually the first thing out of the vet’s bag. It is applied topically to reduce pain, inflammation, and fluid buildup. DMSO may also facilitate other meds—like steroids or antibiotics—directly to the injury site.
DMSO has long been a royal treatment for horses while humans are still waiting for the green light.
• Dogs Recovering from surgery or trauma
Some holistic vets use DMSO on dogs post-surgery or after car accidents to help with swelling, bruising, and nerve pain. The key benefit: It works fast and doesn't require pills or injections. It’s the dog’s version of a miracle rub.
• Snake Bites and Emergency Swelling
In some veterinary circles, DMSO is considered a first-response remedy for major swelling—like insect bites, snake bites, or allergic reactions. It’s not a cure, but it can calm inflammation quickly enough to stabilize the animal for transport or further care.