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DMSO, also known as dimethyl sulfoxide, is a powerful solvent that is also able to penetrate through all tissues except for nails, hair and tooth enamel. Some believe that dimethyl sulfoxide can be used to help treat arthritis, due to this chemical's ability to work as an antioxidant, the Dimethyl Sulfoxide Information Center explains. DMSO can potentially help reduce inflammation and cellular damage and be used to relieve the symptoms of arthritis. DMSO has not been approved for use by the Food and Drug Administration, as its effectiveness and safety have not been proven.

Procure medicinal grade DMSO. The DMSO that is most readily available to the public is industrial-grade DMSO, NWHealthSolutions notes, which means that it may contain contaminants that make it unsafe for human use. Before taking DMSO, talk to your doctor to see if you can get medicinal-grade DMSO, which will have greater purity.

Consume 1 to 2 tsp. of DMSO each day. This is the dosage recommended by HyperMed Australia.

Mix the DMSO with tomato or grape juice or some other strong-tasting beverage. DMSO has a pungent taste, so mixing it with strong flavors can help mask its taste. DMSO can cause you to develop a taste of garlic in your mouth, and the scent of garlic may emanate from your skin after using the compound.