MSM (Methyl-sulphonyl-methane) is a natural ingredient that can be found in products across our range. It has two very important properties: it’s a source of sulphur, and a powerful antioxidant. But why do these properties benefit our horses, and how?
Let’s break it down
MSM is a bioavailable, naturally occurring compound, that can be found in both plants and animals.
The sulphur that MSM contains plays a vital role in tissue repair and regeneration. When broken down in the body, a compound called hydrogen sulphide (H2S) can be produced. H2S is a signalling molecule, which communicates with the brain to stimulate angiogenesis (new blood vessels) in the cardiovascular, nervous and immune systems.
H2S is also important for protein synthesis, stimulating the production of amino acids such as glutathione and cysteine and methionine. These proteins and blood vessels allow tissue growth and repair to occur.
MSM also has antioxidant properties, which can help protect against diseases and exercise-induced stress. Antioxidants are able to neutralise free radicals – the molecules that cause cell damage and inflammation. By reducing this oxidative stress, inflammation and associated pain can be more easily relieved. This allows quicker exercise recovery and the prevention of issues such as cartilage degradation.
What can MSM help with?
MSM can be beneficial for all horses, at different stages of their life. From performance horses, to veterans, to happy hackers. Because the sulphur in MSM can help with tissue growth and repair, MSM is not beneficial in just one area, but the whole body.
MSM is most commonly found in joint, respiratory, skin and hoof supplements, and can provide significant benefits in all of these areas. Furthermore, research has found that when fed alongside Glucosamine, the effects of MSM can be greater than when it is fed independently. This is why you will often see these ingredients alongside each other in supplements.
Why might my horse need MSM?
Horses who need extra joint or respiratory support can benefit from MSM, because of its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It can also be beneficial for horses who require extra skin or hoof growth support, because of its ability to facilitate tissue growth and repair.
How much MSM does my horse need?
Whilst MSM is not a required nutrient in the same was as water, protein, or vitamins, MSM does play an important role. Research suggests that 10-20g per day for an average 500kg horse is the most beneficial feeding rate to provide optimal support. MSM is considered very safe for horses, with no adverse effects being reported even at 80g per 500kg bodyweight per day.
Take away
In summary, MSM is a versatile and valuable ingredient that supports equine health in a range of ways. From promoting tissue repair through its sulphur content to reducing inflammation and oxidative stress with its antioxidant properties, MSM can benefit horses of all ages and disciplines. Whether your horse needs joint, respiratory, skin, or hoof support, MSM offers a safe and effective way to enhance overall wellbeing and performance.
Written by Anna Jones BSc (Hons) Equine Science - Customer Care & Marketing Associate
References
Barshick, M. R., Ely, K. M., Mogge, K. C., Chance, L. M., & Johnson, S. E. (2025). Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) Supplementation in Adult Horses Supports Improved Skeletal Muscle Inflammatory Gene Expression Following Exercise. Animals, 15(2), 215–215. https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15020215
Kyoung Hwan Kim, Park, J.-W., Young Mok Yang, Song, K.-D., & Cho, B.-W. (2021). Effect of methylsulfonylmethane on oxidative stress and CYP3A93 expression in fetal horse liver cells. Animal Bioscience, 34(2), 312–319. https://doi.org/10.5713/ajas.20.0061
Marañón, G., Muñoz-Escassi, B., Manley, W., García, C., Cayado, P., de la Muela, M., Olábarri, B., León, R. and Vara, E. (2008). The effect of methyl sulphonyl methane supplementation on biomarkers of oxidative stress in sport horses following jumping exercise. Acta Veterinaria Scandinavica, 50(1), p.45. doi:https://doi.org/10.1186/1751-0147-50-45.