Dimethyl Sulfoxide (DMSO) 101
​

​What is DMSO?
 
Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) is a colorless, odorless organosulfur liquid derived from wood pulp, primarily used as a potent industrial and laboratory solvent due to its ability to dissolve both polar and nonpolar compounds.  

​While it gained notoriety in the 1960s for its capacity to penetrate biological membranes, it is currently FDA-approved only for the intravesical treatment of interstitial cystitis (bladder pain syndrome) under the brand name Rimso-50.

​Dimethyl Sulfoxide (DMSO) was first synthesized in 1866, has been available as a by-product of the paper pulp industry for many years, and is now used chiefly as an industrial solvent. In 1964 Dr. Stanley W. Jacob, et al. first described the remarkable medicinal properties of DMSO.
 
When applied to intact human skin, the compound penetrates rapidly and produces a wide range of pharmacologic actions, including antiinflammation, local analgesia, bacteriostasis, diuresis, cholinesterase inhibition, enhancement of the action of concomitantly administered drugs, influence on collagen, nonspe-cific enhancement of immunity, vasodilation, and lessening of adhesiveness of blood platelets.
 
As a result the compound has been used widely as a treatment for various conditions, including arthritis, bursitis, acute musculoskeletal trauma, scleroderma, trouble- some urogenital disorders, and various postoperative pain syndromes.

To date little, if any, local or systemic toxicity has been notedin humans after the administration of DMSO.
 
How Does DMSO Work?
 
According to the Encyclopedia of Medical Breakthroughs and Forbidden Treatments (published by Medical Research Associates LLC) DMSO was known as a medical wonder product, “the aspirin of the 21st century,” before briefly falling out of favor with the FDA—which ultimately approved it, but limited its treatment usage.
 
DMSO has a molecular bond with water that is 1.3 times stronger than water’s molecular bond with itself. Because of it, this unique solvent substitutes for water as it moves through the cell membranes; pulling substances through cells that ordinarily would not penetrate them.

​Some believe its basic therapeutic principle is its ability to alter and restore damaged cells by hydrating them, changing their water structure, and increasing cellular permeability—which allows cells to nourish themselves and dispose of wastes more easily.
 
Although all of the mechanisms of this substance are not fully understood (neither was aspirin, until fairly recently), it is known that DMSO, acting as a carrier solvent, mixes readily with dextrose, and acts as a “Trojan Horse,” when pulled across the cell walls of tumors, which feed upon the dextrose (Sugar.)

The DMSO then destroys the cancer cells without affecting normal tissue.
 
“Supporters believe that DMSO can cut through a protein shell surrounding cancer cells and so may assist medications and the immune system in attacking cancer cells. It is also believed that DMSO can decrease the energy level of cancer cells and cause them to become benign.”1
 
“DMSO stimulates various parts of the immune system and scavenges hydroxyl radicals, the most potent of free radicals. Since free radicals promote tumor growth, this may be one of the mechanisms by which DMSO interferes with the development of cancer.
 
It may also explain why patients who receive DMSO while undergoing either chemotherapy or radiation (both of which generate free radicals in order to kill cancer cells) are far less prone to such side effects as hair loss, nausea and dry mouth.”2 “There is evidence that DMSO can also protect against radiation damage.”3

1. Guide to Unconventional Cancer Therapies 1st ed. Toronto: Ontario Breast Cancer Information Project, 1994:271-274

2. Diamond WJ et al. An Alternative Medicine Definitive Guide to Cancer. Tiburon: Future Medicine Publishing Inc, 1997: 111,866-67

3. Dunlop M. Understanding Cancer: An Invaluable Book for Patients and Their Families. Toronto: Irwin 1985: 108-110

Further extensive research and evidence is in the book “DMSO: Nature’s Healer,” by Morton Walker, M.D.
  
Can I Spray DMSO Direct to the Skin?
 
Yes you can, but wash the area that you intend to spray on first with plain water. You should always diltue DMSO with water in the spray bottle. DMSO produces heat with contact to the skin so to prevent any unpleasant sensations make sure you dilute the DMSO first with water.
 
Does DMSO Help With Acne?

​Yes, it works extremely well. Make a spray bottle mixture and spray on your face several times a day. Do not dry the face afterwards just let it dry on it's own. Continue this treatment until the acne is gone.
 
How Often Should I Use DMSO?
 
People have been known to apply DMSO anywhere from 1 to 6 or more times per day. For acute conditions, some sources recommend that you apply it every two hours for six to eight hours immediately after the injury occurs.

Then, for the next five days or more, apply DMSO every four to six hours. Typically the benefit from DMSO uses will come in the first three weeks. For chronic conditions, the effects may take longer.
 
Chronic pain patients often have to apply the substance for 6 weeks before a change occurs, but many report relief to a degree they had not been able to obtain from any other source.

Although some notice some easing of pain right away, it may take six to eight weeks, or even six months in rare cases, for the maximum benefit to be achieved depending on the person and their pain
  
Is DMSO Effective as a Cancer Treatment?
 
YES. In the documented research literature and in actual cases we have witnessed firsthand, evidence shows that it has brought about total remission on many high grade, aggressive tumors which had progressed (metastasized) to the lymph nodes and other areas of the body.

Our greatest success has been against the lymphomas, glioblastoma, melanoma, prostate and colon cancer.
  
Are There Any Side Effects Associated With DMSO Treatment?
 
A few patients have reported a mild headache or a spell of chills. This is rare, and disappears when the dosage is reduced. DMSO has a slight odor like garlic and oysters. DMSO is gentle and non-toxic.

It does not ordinarily cause nausea and vomiting, nor does it routinely destroy healthy tissue or blood cells, unlike standard chemo.
 
It won’t cause anemia, except in cases where disease progression has damaged the pancreas or gallbladder, or in cases where prior standard chemotherapy and/or disease progression has damaged the bone marrow's ability to regenerate replacement red blood cells.

When this side effect arises in a patient receiving DMSO (anemia) it can be offset with a blood transfusion, or the patient may be switched over to another alternative treatment.
 
Patients who are warned of the risk of anemia are often willing to accept the trade-off and the possibility of a transfusion becoming necessary, when weighing it against the likelihood that the DMSO is also working to destroy their tumors.
 
Despite occasional anemia, DMSO has none of the miserable side effects common to most standard chemotherapy agents. Research indicates that it protects against common side effects of standard chemo and radiation. It also protects against blood clot formation; a serious complication risk of surgery. 
 
Will DMSO Conflict With My Standard Chemotherapy?
 
No, not if it is scheduled properly. DMSO, being a carrier solvent and also a chelating agent, (helping cells to rid themselves of waste, by making the cell membrane more porous) increases the effectiveness of whatever else is given in combination with it—but can also “chelate OUT” and diminish the effectiveness (or damage!) from standard chemo.
 
To avoid any conflict between the two, it is best not to receive a DMSO infusion in the same day as standard chemo. We recommend a 48-72 hour safety margin for patients who have opted to receive both.
  
Are There Any Side Effects Associated With DMSO Treatment?
 
A few patients have reported a mild headache or a spell of chills. This is rare, and disappears when the dosage is reduced. DMSO has a slight odor like garlic and oysters. DMSO is gentle and non-toxic.

It does not ordinarily cause nausea and vomiting, nor does it routinely destroy healthy tissue or blood cells, unlike standard chemo.
 
It won’t cause anemia, except in cases where disease progression has damaged the pancreas or gallbladder, or in cases where prior standard chemotherapy and/or disease progression has damaged the bone marrow's ability to regenerate replacement red blood cells.
 
When this side effect arises in a patient receiving DMSO (anemia) it can be offset with a blood transfusion, or the patient may be switched over to another alternative treatment.

Patients who are warned of the risk of anemia are often willing to accept the trade-off and the possibility of a transfusion becoming necessary, when weighing it against the likelihood that the DMSO is also working to destroy their tumors.
 
Despite occasional anemia, DMSO has none of the miserable side effects common to most standard chemotherapy agents. Research indicates that it protects against common side effects of standard chemo and radiation. It also protects against blood clot formation; a serious complication risk of surgery.
  
Why is DMSO Common Mixed With Organic Aloe Vera Gel?
 
Aloe Vera can help to relieve the temporary skin irritation that can occur when DMSO is applied topically. Aloe Vera is also beneficial to skin in a variety of ways and has anti-inflammatory properties. Another reason is DMSO generates heat and Aloe Vera is a cooling agent so they complement each other.
  
Does DMSO Expire?
 
DMSO has a shelf life of 2 years at room temperature 59°-86° F (15°- 30° C). DMSO should be stored in a cool, dry place. But not refridgerated.

Store DMSO in a sealed container in a cool, dark place (out of direct sunlight). DMSO can be stored in some types of plastics. Since other plastics can be dissolved by DMSO, storing it in glass is the most commonly preferred option.
  
My DMSO Arrived Frozen Solid is That Okay?
 
DMSO will freeze and crystallize around 64° F. Frozen DMSO will look like glass shards or can be completely solid.

If your item arrives in this condition, simply place the container in a sealed, clear plastic bag (to protect the label), then run warm water over it. This may take a while for it to become thawed out, depending on how cold it is.There is no practical way to keep DMSO above 64° F when shipping.

This is very common as some couriers will have air conditioned facilities when the package is waiting to be delivered and in no way affects the performance of the product in any way. DO NOT EXPOSE DMSO to temperatures above 110° F or put it in a microwave!
 
Is DMSO Safe to Mix With Other Things Like Essential Oils?
 
One of the reasons DMSO is so awesome is because it’s a binder and a carrier; meaning it can increase the absorption rate of many things you add to it, so please be careful with anything you’re adding or coming into direct contact with while applying DMSO.
  
If I Am Allergic to Sulfa Can I Use DMSO?
 
There is commonly some confusion regarding sulfa allergies and sulfur. Sulfur is an essential element of life and is the eighth most prevalent element in the human body. No one is allergic to sulfur itself.

When people say that they are allergic to sulfur they mean sulfites or sulfonamides, not sulfur or sulfates. DMSO is an organo sulfur compound and does not contain sulfa.

Can I Used DMSO if I Am On Blood Thinners or Pregnant or Nursing?
People on blood thinners or who are pregnant or nursing, should not use DMSO.

Find More DMSO Information Here

​Primary Safety Risks

Applying DMSO (dimethyl sulfoxide) to the skin carries specific safety risks primarily driven by its unique ability to rapidly penetrate biological membranes.  While often used for pain relief, improper use can lead to systemic toxicity and severe local reactions. 

1. Enhanced Absorption of Contaminants
The most critical danger is DMSO's function as a carrier molecule.  It does not just penetrate the skin itself; it transports other substances dissolved in it or present on the skin surface directly into the bloodstream.
​

• Toxin Transport: If the skin is not perfectly clean, DMSO can carry dirt, bacteria, soaps, perfumes, or insecticides into the body, potentially causing poisoning. 

 

• Industrial Grade Hazards: Using industrial-grade DMSO is highly dangerous because it may contain impurities like heavy metals or pesticides from the manufacturing process, which DMSO will then deliver systemically. Only pharmaceutical-grade DMSO should ever be used. 

 

• Drug Interactions: It can dangerously amplify the effects of other medications applied to the skin, such as steroids, blood thinners, or heart medications, leading to overdose symptoms. 

2. Skin Irritation and Damage
Local reactions are dose-dependent and vary by concentration:

• High Concentrations (>60%): Application of concentrations above 60% frequently causes burning, stinging, redness (erythema), itching, and peeling.  Exposure to 90% DMSO can cause visible clinical irritation in as little as 15 minutes.

 

• Cumulative Effect: Repeated application, even at moderate concentrations, can lead to cumulative skin damage, dryness, and thickening rather than the skin building tolerance. 

 

• Blistering: In sensitive individuals or with high concentrations, DMSO can cause blistering or hives (contact urticaria). 

3. Systemic Side Effects
Once absorbed, DMSO is metabolized into dimethyl sulfide (DMS), leading to whole-body effects:

• Garlic/Oyster Odor: A distinct garlic-like taste in the mouth and a similar odor on the breath and skin are nearly universal side effects, appearing within minutes and lasting up to 72 hours. 

 

• Gastrointestinal & Neurological: Users may experience nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, and sedation. 

 

• Allergic Reactions: Although rare, severe allergic responses including anaphylaxis (difficulty breathing, facial swelling) can occur.

4. Specific Contraindications

• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Safety has not been established, and animal studies suggest potential risks; usage is generally advised against. 

 

• Eye Toxicity: While primarily a concern in animal studies, there are historical warnings regarding changes to the lens of the eye, prompting caution.

​

• Broken Skin: Applying DMSO to open wounds or abraded skin significantly increases absorption rates and the risk of introducing infection or toxins deep into tissue.

​Recommended Dilution Ratios

To safely apply DMSO (dimethyl sulfoxide) to the skin, it must be diluted from its pure liquid form (typically 99.9%) to reduce the risk of irritation and control absorption.  The appropriate concentration depends entirely on the sensitivity of the area being treated. ​

General Body Application (Muscles, Joints, Limbs)
For most therapeutic uses on the body, such as treating arthritis or muscle pain, a concentration between 50% and 70% is standard. 
​

• 70% Solution (Strong): Mix 7 parts DMSO with 3 parts distilled water.  This is often used for thick skin or severe pain but carries a higher risk of burning.

 

• 50% Solution (Moderate): Mix 1 part DMSO with 1 part distilled water.  This is frequently recommended as the best balance between efficacy and skin tolerance for new users.

 

• Carrier Options: Instead of water, pure aloe vera gel can be used as the diluent to soothe the skin while maintaining the desired concentration. 

Sensitive Areas (Face, Neck, Genitals)
The skin on the face and other sensitive areas is much thinner and requires significantly lower concentrations, typically between 10% and 30%. 
​

• 10% Solution: Mix 1 part DMSO with 9 parts distilled water.  Ideal for first-time users or very sensitive skin.

 

• 20% Solution: Mix 2 parts DMSO with 8 parts distilled water. 

 

• 30% Solution: Mix 3 parts DMSO with 7 parts distilled water. 

Critical Safety Procedures for Dilution

​1.Use Only Distilled Water
Never use tap water. Because DMSO acts as a carrier, it will pull chlorine, fluoride, heavy metals, and bacteria from tap water directly through your skin and into your bloodstream.

​Only distilled, deionized, or sterile water is safe for dilution. 

2. Proper Mixing Containers
DMSO is a potent solvent that can dissolve certain plastics and synthetic rubbers, leaching chemicals into your solution.
​

• Safe Materials: Use glass, stainless steel, or ceramic containers and utensils for mixing and storage. 

 

• Avoid: Plastic cups, rubber gloves (unless specifically butyl rubber), or synthetic applicators. 

3. Patch Testing
Before applying a new dilution to a large area, perform a patch test.  Apply a small amount to the inner forearm and wait 15–30 minutes. If severe burning, blistering, or hives occur, the concentration is too high, and you should dilute it further with more distilled water. 


4. Skin Preparation
The area must be immaculately clean before application.  Wash with mild soap and water, rinse thoroughly, and dry completely. Any residue of soap, lotion, perfume, or dirt on the skin will be carried into the body by the DMSO. 

​What are signs of DMSO toxicity?

Signs of DMSO toxicity range from common, transient side effects to severe systemic reactions, particularly when high concentrations are ingested, injected, or absorbed through compromised skin. 

Common Signs of Overexposure
These symptoms are frequently reported even with therapeutic topical use but can indicate toxicity if severe or persistent:
​

• Garlic/Oyster Odor: A pervasive garlic-like taste in the mouth and odor on the breath and skin is the most universal sign, caused by the metabolic breakdown of DMSO into dimethyl sulfide. 

 

• Dermatological Reactions: Intense burning, stinging, itching (pruritus), and redness (erythema) at the application site.  High concentrations can cause blistering, hives (urticaria), and skin thickening. 

 

• Gastrointestinal Distress: Nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea are common, especially if DMSO is ingested or absorbed in large quantities. 

​

• Neurological Symptoms: Headache, dizziness, sedation, and fatigue are frequently observed. 

​Immediate DMSO First Aid Measures

There is no specific antidote for DMSO poisoning. Treatment is entirely supportive and symptomatic, focusing on removing the source of exposure and managing the body's reaction while the chemical is naturally metabolized and eliminated. 

Immediate First Aid Measures

​1. Dermal Exposure (Skin Contact)

• Immediate Washing: The most critical step is to immediately wash the affected area with soap and copious amounts of water for at least 15 minutes.  This removes the chemical before it penetrates deeper.

 

• Remove Contaminants: Quickly remove any clothing, jewelry, or shoes that have come into contact with DMSO, as the liquid can continue to drive toxins through the fabric into the skin. 

 

• Do Not Occlude: Do not cover the area with bandages or dressings, as this can trap the chemical and increase absorption. 

2. Ingestion

• Do Not Induce Vomiting: Medical guidelines explicitly advise against inducing vomiting, as this can cause further irritation to the esophagus and risk aspiration. 

 

• Dilution: If the patient is conscious and able to swallow, give water to rinse the mouth and dilute the substance in the stomach. 

 

• Positioning: If vomiting occurs spontaneously, keep the patient leaning forward or lying on their left side (head lower than hips) to prevent aspiration of vomit into the lungs. 

3. Inhalation and Eye Contact

• Fresh Air: Immediately move the individual to an area with fresh air if vapors have been inhaled.​ 
• Eye Irrigation: Flush eyes with water or saline for at least 15 minutes, holding eyelids open to ensure complete irrigation.  Seek immediate medical attention for any visual disturbances.

Clinical Management and Supportive Care

Symptomatic Treatment

Medical professionals will manage specific symptoms as they arise:

• Anaphylaxis: Severe allergic reactions (difficulty breathing, swelling) are treated with epinephrine, antihistamines, and corticosteroids.

 

• Hemolysis: If red blood cell breakdown occurs (rare, usually from massive IV exposure), treatment may include hydration and, in severe cases, blood transfusions.

 

• Neurological Support: Severe headaches, dizziness, or seizures are managed with standard neurological interventions and sedatives if necessary.

 

• Organ Support: In cases of significant liver or kidney stress, intravenous fluids are administered to support renal function and facilitate excretion. 

Monitoring

• Observation: Patients are typically monitored for changes in blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen saturation.​

 

• Lab Tests: Blood tests may be conducted to check for hemolysis, liver enzyme elevation, and kidney function (creatinine/BUN levels).

Because DMSO rapidly carries other substances into the bloodstream, a crucial part of treatment is identifying and managing co-toxicity from any contaminants or drugs that the DMSO may have transported into the body.

How Does DMSO Interact With Other Medications?

DMSO interacts with other medications primarily by acting as a potent penetration enhancer and carrier molecule, which can dangerously amplify the effects of drugs or introduce toxins into the bloodstream. 

​Mechanism of Interaction
DMSO disrupts the lipid bilayers of the skin’s outer layer (stratum corneum) and increases membrane fluidity.

​This allows substances that normally cannot cross the skin barrier to penetrate deeply into tissues and enter systemic circulation. It effectively "drags" dissolved molecules with it, increasing their bioavailability and potency. 

High-Risk Medication Interactions

​The following classes of drugs are known to have dangerous interactions with DMSO:

• Blood Thinners (Anticoagulants): DMSO potentiates drugs like warfarin, heparin, and aspirin, significantly increasing the risk of internal bleeding and bruising. 

 

• Corticosteroids: It enhances the absorption of topical and systemic steroids (e.g., hydrocortisone, prednisone), which can lead to systemic steroid overdose symptoms such as adrenal suppression, fluid retention, and hormonal imbalances. 

 

• Heart Medications: DMSO can amplify the effects of digitalis (digoxin), nitroglycerin, and quinidine, potentially causing toxic heart rhythms or severe drops in blood pressure. 

 

• Sedatives and CNS Depressants: It intensifies the effects of alcohol, barbiturates, benzodiazepines, and opioids.  Historical clinical reports note patients becoming "extremely drunk" or severely sedated after consuming small amounts of alcohol while using DMSO.

 

• Insulin: DMSO can increase insulin absorption, raising the risk of severe hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).

 

• Antibiotics and Chemotherapy: While sometimes used intentionally to enhance delivery, DMSO can unpredictably increase the toxicity of certain antibiotics (e.g., fluoroquinolones) and chemotherapy agents, leading to severe side effects like hematomas or circulatory problems. 

Critical Safety Implications

• Contaminant Transport: Because DMSO carries anything on the skin surface into the body, applying it over areas with residual soap, perfume, insecticides, or other topical products can result in poisoning from those substances. 

 

• Dose Potentiation: Even if a medication is not applied directly with DMSO, systemic absorption of DMSO can alter how the body processes orally taken medications, effectively increasing their dosage without changing the pill count.

 

• Contraindicated Combinations: DMSO should never be mixed with organophosphate pesticides or compounds containing mercury, as it can facilitate lethal absorption levels. 

​Due to these risks, patients using prescription medications—especially those with narrow therapeutic windows like blood thinners or heart drugs—must consult a healthcare provider before using DMSO to avoid accidental overdose or toxicity.


References

https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/neuroscience/dimethyl-sulfoxide

https://www.midwesterndoctor.com/p/therapeutic-dmso-combinations-revolutionize

https://scienceinsights.org/what-does-dmso-do-for-humans-effects-and-risks/

https://thecalculatedchemist.com/blogs/news/title-exploring-dimethyl-sulfoxide-dmso-therapeutic-potential-risks-and-mechanisms-as-a-skin-penetration-agent

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3460663/