DMSO: A Forgotten Natural Healer for Pain, Tissue Repair, and More
In the world of natural health and healing, few substances are as fascinating — or as controversial — as DMSO (Dimethyl Sulfoxide). DMSO is a forgotten natural healer. Once hailed as a miracle treatment and widely studied for its healing abilities, DMSO has flown under the radar in recent decades due to its low cost, non-patentable status, and its threat to mainstream pharmaceutical profits.
But for those who value alternative remedies and self-directed healing, DMSO is a powerful tool that’s worth revisiting.
What Is DMSO?
DMSO is a natural byproduct of wood pulp processing — a simple sulfur compound with an extraordinary ability: it penetrates skin and cell membranes almost instantly. Initially used as an industrial solvent, it was later found to have profound healing properties, especially for inflammation, pain, and tissue regeneration.
It’s been used medically for decades — especially in veterinary and sports medicine — but its use in human healing goes far deeper than most realize.
Traditional Uses of DMSO
Since the 1960s, DMSO has been studied for:
-
Joint pain and inflammation
-
Tendon and ligament injuries
-
Burns and wounds
-
Interstitial cystitis (FDA-approved for bladder treatment)
-
Neurological trauma
-
Autoimmune conditions and arthritis
Its ability to increase blood flow, reduce inflammation, and act as a powerful antioxidant made it a staple in alternative healing circles — particularly among those with chronic pain, nerve damage, or soft tissue injuries.
How DMSO Supports Healing
1. Tissue Repair & Anti-Inflammatory Action
DMSO helps repair injured tissue by penetrating deeply and reducing oxidative stress at the cellular level. It draws excess fluids out of inflamed areas and acts as a free radical scavenger, speeding up recovery time for damaged muscles, joints, and connective tissue.
2. Increased Circulation
Because DMSO dilates blood vessels and penetrates deeply, it promotes better oxygenation to injured tissues — an essential factor in healing. For people with poor circulation, cold hands and feet, or stiffness from inactivity, it can offer dramatic relief.
3. Joint Pain & Arthritis Relief
Its pain-relieving properties are well-documented. Many users report reduced stiffness and inflammation in arthritic joints within minutes of applying a DMSO-based gel or solution.
DMSO and Cancer: What the Research Says
While DMSO is not approved as a cancer treatment in mainstream medicine, many alternative practitioners and researchers have explored its supportive role, especially as a carrier for other anti-cancer agents.
Here’s what we know:
-
DMSO selectively enters cancer cells more easily than normal cells, making it a potential transport system for natural or pharmaceutical compounds.
-
It’s been studied for use with vitamin C, laetrile (B17), and certain chemotherapeutic drugs, enhancing their delivery and reducing systemic toxicity.
-
Some alternative protocols use DMSO topically with frankincense oil, cannabis oil, or turmeric extracts to reach tumors located near the skin.
⚠️ Important Note: DMSO is not a cure for cancer, and it should never be used in place of professional guidance. However, its ability to enhance cellular absorption may have a place in integrative care.
How to Use DMSO Safely: Application Tips
Because DMSO pulls substances directly through the skin into the bloodstream, it must be used with great care. The area should be very clean — no perfumes, lotions, or contaminants nearby.
Common Carrier Blends:
-
50% DMSO / 50% Aloe Vera Gel:
Soothes the skin, ideal for burns, sprains, and joint pain -
70% DMSO / 30% Distilled Water:
Used as a general-purpose topical application -
DMSO with Coconut Oil:
Adds moisture and balances the drying effect on skin
-
DMSO + Essential Oils (1–2 drops):
Popular options include frankincense, lavender, peppermint, and turmeric
(Only use therapeutic-grade oils — never fragrance blends)DMSO Percentage in a Comfrey Salve: What’s Safe and Effective?
There’s no one-size-fits-all percentage, but based on natural health usage and safety data, here’s what I found:
Common Range: 30%–50% DMSO
-
30% DMSO:
Gentle enough for daily use, especially for people with sensitive skin or if applying to areas with thinner skin (wrists, neck, etc.) -
50% DMSO:
Stronger penetration and relief — most common blend in natural salves for muscle, joint, or injury support
⚠️ Over 70% can be harsh and cause skin irritation, itching, or redness, especially in combination with herbs or oils.
Suggested DIY Blend for DMSO + Comfrey Salve:
Here’s a safe, effective formulation:
-
1 part DMSO (99.9% pure, pharmaceutical-grade)
-
1 part infused comfrey oil (olive or coconut oil base)
-
Optional: Add a small amount of beeswax to thicken
-
Add lavender or frankincense essential oil (1–2 drops per ounce) for extra anti-inflammatory and healing support
Example:
For a 2 oz salve:-
1 oz comfrey oil
-
1 oz DMSO
-
1 tsp beeswax (adjust to thicken)
-
2 drops lavender EO
Let cool in a glass jar or tin. Always store in glass — never plastic
Application Notes:
-
Apply to clean skin only
-
Avoid use on broken skin
-
Store away from sunlight
-
Do a patch test before widespread us
-
Application Sites:
-
Sore knees, shoulders, wrists, and back
-
Over organ areas like liver or kidneys (only with professional guidance)
-
Avoid contact with open wounds or mucous membranes unless supervised
Safety Guidelines:
-
Use glass or ceramic containers only (DMSO dissolves plastics)
-
Apply with clean hands or a natural cotton pad
-
Test a small area first to check for skin sensitivity
-
Do not use with chemical-based creams, perfumes, or lotions — DMSO will carry them into the body
Final Thoughts: DMSO – a Forgotten Natural Healer
is being recognized for it’s huge potential.
DMSO isn’t a miracle drug — but it is a remarkable compound that deserves more attention in today’s world of chronic illness, joint pain, and inflammation.
Whether you’re a caregiver helping a senior parent with mobility issues, a believer in natural cancer support, or simply someone tired of synthetic pain creams, DMSO might be exactly what your healing routine has been missing.
Always do your own research, start slowly, and — if in doubt — consult a practitioner familiar with its use. Please contact me with any questions or comments.