Written by the Plenthera team (trained in orthomolecular nutrition). Scientifically reviewed in October 2026. Last updated: 7 October 2026.
MSM (methylsulfonylmethane) is an organic sulphur compound that occurs in small amounts in food. At Plenthera you will find MSM as pure, vegan capsules from the Danish brand Plantforce (800 mg per capsule) and in Glucosamine Chondroitin MSM from Doctor's Best, in which 1,000 mg OptiMSM® is combined with glucosamine and chondroitin.
Which MSM suits you?
| Product | MSM per daily dose | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Plantforce Vegan MSM, 200 capsules (at Plenthera) | 1,600–2,400 mg (2–3 capsules) | 100% pure MSM, vegan, 800 mg per capsule |
| Doctor's Best Glucosamine Chondroitin MSM, 240 or 360 capsules (at Plenthera) | 1,000 mg OptiMSM® (4 capsules) | With 1,500 mg glucosamine and 1,200 mg chondroitin; contains shellfish and beef |
| MSM powder (other forms on the market) | Variable | Flexible dosing, slightly bitter taste — we do not currently stock it |
What is MSM?
MSM (methylsulfonylmethane, also dimethyl sulfone) is an organic sulphur compound with the formula (CH₃)₂SO₂. About 34% of the molecule is sulphur. MSM is not a vitamin or mineral, but a substance that occurs in small amounts in food.
Sulphur is a building block of the amino acids methionine and cysteine and thus of many proteins, including keratin and collagen, and of glutathione. Most sulphur is obtained through protein-rich food. MSM itself is found in small amounts in vegetables, fruit, milk, coffee and tea.
MSM in supplements is produced industrially and then purified; the end product is chemically identical to the MSM that occurs in food.
What does science say about MSM?
MSM is mainly researched in relation to joint comfort and recovery after intensive exertion, and to a lesser extent for the skin. Studies have examined, among others, people with knee complaints due to wear and tear and athletes after heavy training, with dosages of about 1.5 to 6 grams per day. Many of these studies are small and short, and some examined MSM in combination with glucosamine or chondroitin. As a result, the findings cannot yet be translated into a fixed expectation for everyone.
More is known about safety: in studies, MSM is well tolerated at common dosages. Mild gastrointestinal complaints, headaches or a slightly energised feeling are sometimes reported.
Purity and OptiMSM®
After production, MSM is purified by crystallisation or distillation. In distillation, MSM is vaporised and condensed again, leaving impurities behind.
OptiMSM® is a brand name for MSM that is purified by distillation. It is contained in Glucosamine Chondroitin MSM from Doctor's Best. According to the label, Plantforce Vegan MSM consists of 100% pure MSM without additives, in a plant-based capsule.
MSM at Plenthera and other forms on the market
Vegan MSM, 200 capsules (Plantforce) — at Plenthera
Pure MSM from the Danish brand Plantforce, 800 mg per capsule. Adults take 2 to 3 capsules per day (1,600–2,400 mg), preferably with a meal and a glass of water. From 12 years: start with 1 capsule per day. Free from gluten, soya and lactose; suitable for vegans. Distribution is handled by Plent B.V. Read more about the brand at Plantforce MSM.
Glucosamine Chondroitin MSM (Doctor's Best) — at Plenthera
Per daily dose of 4 capsules: 1,500 mg glucosamine hydrochloride potassium sulphate, 1,200 mg chondroitin sulphate and 1,000 mg MSM (OptiMSM®). Available with 240 and 360 capsules. The glucosamine comes from shellfish and the chondroitin from beef: not suitable for vegetarians, vegans and people with a shellfish allergy. If you use anticoagulants, consult your doctor first. Read more about glucosamine at glucosamine.
Other forms on the market
MSM powder offers flexible dosing and can be stirred into water or a drink; the taste is slightly bitter. There are also combinations of MSM with collagen or vitamin C and creams with MSM. We do not currently stock these.
How do you use MSM?
- Follow the dosage on the label: 2–3 capsules of Plantforce Vegan MSM or 4 capsules of Glucosamine Chondroitin MSM per day.
- Take the capsules with a meal and a glass of water and optionally split them over two moments.
- Do not use the products at the same time without adding up the total amount of MSM.
- Give a supplement a number of weeks before you assess whether it suits you.
- If pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication (particularly anticoagulants) or with a shellfish allergy: consult your doctor first.
Myths and misconceptions about MSM
Myth 1: "MSM is a miracle cure for joints."
Not scientifically substantiated. Research is ongoing, but the studies are usually small and short.
Myth 2: "The more MSM, the better."
Incorrect. More than the dosage on the label provides no demonstrated benefit and can cause gastrointestinal complaints.
Myth 3: "MSM is the same as sulphur from garlic or onion."
No. Garlic and onion contain other sulphur compounds, such as allicin and sulphides. MSM is a specific compound.
Combining MSM with other supplements
- Glucosamine: the classic combination, as in the Doctor's Best formula.
- Vitamin C: vitamin C contributes to normal collagen formation for the normal function of cartilage.
- Collagen: often used together in a routine for skin and connective tissue.
- Magnesium: magnesium contributes to normal muscle function.
- Omega 3: for those who want to supplement their routine with fish oil or algae oil.
Frequently asked questions
What is MSM?
MSM (methylsulfonylmethane) is an organic sulphur compound. It occurs in small amounts in vegetables, fruit, milk, coffee and tea. As a supplement, it is usually taken in capsules or as a powder.
How much MSM should I take per day?
Follow the dosage on the label. For Plantforce Vegan MSM, that is 2 to 3 capsules per day (1,600–2,400 mg). For Glucosamine Chondroitin MSM from Doctor's Best, it is 4 capsules per day (1,000 mg MSM).
What is OptiMSM®?
OptiMSM® is a brand name for MSM that is purified by distillation. It is contained in Glucosamine Chondroitin MSM from Doctor's Best.
Is MSM vegan?
MSM itself is. Plantforce Vegan MSM is fully vegan. Glucosamine Chondroitin MSM from Doctor's Best is not: the glucosamine comes from shellfish and the chondroitin from beef.
When should I take MSM?
Preferably with a meal and a glass of water. Optionally split the daily dose over two moments.
Does MSM have side effects?
In studies, MSM is well tolerated at common dosages; mild gastrointestinal complaints are sometimes reported. If pregnant, breastfeeding or taking medication, consult your doctor first.
Sources
- Butawan M, Benjamin RL, Bloomer RJ (2017). Methylsulfonylmethane: Applications and Safety of a Novel Dietary Supplement. Nutrients 9(3):290.
- Kim LS et al. (2006). Efficacy of methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) in osteoarthritis pain of the knee: a pilot clinical trial. Osteoarthritis Cartilage 14(3):286–294.
- Brien S et al. (2008). Systematic review of the nutritional supplements dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) and methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) in the treatment of osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis Cartilage 16(11):1277–1288.
- van der Merwe M, Bloomer RJ (2016). The Influence of Methylsulfonylmethane on Inflammation-Associated Cytokine Release before and following Strenuous Exercise. J Sports Med 2016:7498359.
Disclaimer: This text is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. MSM is a food supplement, not a medicine. If in doubt or if you take medication, we recommend consulting a doctor or orthomolecular therapist first.