DMSO (dimethyl sulfoxide) – is a natural substance from tree bark that was first synthesized by Russian scientist, Dr. Alexander Saytzeff in 1866. Due to its amazing ability to bind with other substances, it was first used as a solvent. Then it was demonstrated in 1959 that DMSO could protect red blood cells and other tissues against freezing conditions, so experimentation began using it to freeze and store organs for transplants.
Then Dr. Stanley Jacob of the University of Oregon Medical School discovered that DMSO relieved burn pains and prevented scar tissue formation. He published his results in 1963 – and from then on DMSO usage and experimentation spread like wildfire. Until, as per usual, the FDA got wind of it's efficacy and banned it for most uses!
We have been using topical DMSO in combination formulas to treat internal and external hemorrhoids, intestinal strictures and rectal strictures, parasites and fungus. It is truly a powerful substance.
A DMSO side effect is that it has a garlic-type odor - because it is instantly transported throughout the body, you (or others!) may notice this smell on your breath or coming from your pores when you use it. The interesting thing about this odor though, is that it is not constant (more just something you get a whiff of) and in some cases only your family members can smell it!
DMSO instantly transports into the cells and bloodstream anything it comes into contact with. So you must make sure to wash your skin with only natural soap and water (don't apply any creams). Also use only glass or stainless steel to mix, hold or apply DMSO. If applying topically, it's usually easiest just to apply using your clean fingers.
Some places sell DMSO in plastic bottles and that is just craziness. Personally I would not use DMSO that has been in contact with plastic. If you're interested in learning more about DMSO, a great book is DMSO – Nature's Healer by Dr. Morton Walker, I highly recommend it.
DMSO is currently not approved for use with other substances. Like many other truly spectacular, natural, non-patentable substances, DMSO has been sidelined by the FDA (Food & Drug Administration). Its only FDA-approved use is for interstitial cystitis (for which a drug company holds the patent). Thus, any DMSO product you buy has to carry a warning that it is for use as a "solvent" only.