What is DMSO
Basics: what DMSO is, why it is a special substance, and how it is used.
DMSO (dimethyl sulfoxide) is a substance known primarily as a strong solvent and for its ability to rapidly penetrate the skin. Fundamentally, it is a by-product of wood processing, but it is considered a substance with exceptionally strong biological effects. DMSO has anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and regenerative effects, especially for local issues with muscles, joints, and soft tissues. Proper use is important, with purity, precision, and understanding of its mechanism of action being key.
Read more about the connection between frequencies and DMSO in the following sections of this article.
DMSO represents a bridge between science and nature – a simple, yet exceptionally powerful tool, which, with understanding and responsible use, offers surprising potential for supporting the body and healing processes.
Basics: what DMSO is, why it is a special substance, and how it is used.
From industrial solvent, through research and regulatory restrictions, to modern and wide use.
Amphiphilicity, solubility, concentration, and effect on cell membranes.
Tattoos, chlorine, impurities, materials, medications – key rules.
Overview of concentrations and a practical way to prepare mixtures.
How to use, how often, and when to take a break.
Practical considerations, limitations and the principle of moderation.
9 examples of practical use.
Use of DMSO in combination with frequency therapies with Zapper‑Pro.
The most important points in one place.
Short answers to the most common questions about DMSO.
Used literature.
DMSO (dimethyl sulfoxide) is a small, amphiphilic molecule (soluble in both water and fats), which has been used for decades as an industrial and laboratory solvent. A special feature of DMSO is its ability to penetrate through skin and biological membranes, which is why it is often mentioned outside of classical industrial contexts in practice.
It is precisely this property that means DMSO is not a “normal liquid”. What is present on the skin at the time of application can, under certain conditions, penetrate deeper into the tissue. Therefore, DMSO use always calls for clean skin, appropriate concentration and thoughtful use. More about DMSO chemistry →
The names of some sulfur compounds are similar, but they are different substances with different properties:
The term «sulfur allergy» often appears, but in practice it is frequently misunderstood. Sensitivities are usually related to specific sulfur compounds, not sulfur as an element. Explanation about sulfur, sulfites and allergies →
DMSO is available in various qualities and intended uses. For skin contact, it makes sense to choose products with clearly marked purity, origin, and intended use. Pharmaceutical vs. industrial quality →
DMSO (dimethyl sulfoxide) was first described in the second half of the 19th century, when chemists were researching by-products of wood and lignin processing. In 1866, it was first isolated by the Russian chemist Alexander M. Saytzeff. Initially, it was interesting mainly as an industrial solvent, because it effectively dissolved many substances that were problematic for other solvents.
The turning point occurred in the middle of the 20th century, when researchers discovered its ability to protect cells during freezing and its unique property of penetrating through skin and cell membranes while carrying other beneficial substances with it.
Despite promising results, DMSO has never become part of routine clinical therapy. Due to media sensationalism, the caution of regulators, and especially the fact that the substance cannot be patented, it has remained on the fringes of the system. Thus, it gradually became a »folk remedy« — accessible, effective, and still in use today among individuals, therapists, and athletes around the world.
More serious scientific interest in DMSO emerged in the 1950s, when researchers observed that the substance unusually quickly passes through the skin and other biological membranes. This property triggered a wave of research in the fields of pharmacy, biology, and medicine.
In the 1960s, extensive research on the potential medical use of DMSO was conducted in the US and elsewhere around the world. They examined it as:
During this period, DMSO also quickly spread outside of strictly scientific circles, which led to inconsistent and sometimes thoughtless use. As a result, reports of unwanted effects also appeared, especially at high concentrations or improper use.
In 1965, US regulatory authorities (FDA) temporarily restricted further clinical research on DMSO after animal studies showed changes in the lens of the eye at very high doses. This decision strongly slowed the broader medical use of DMSO, although research did not completely cease.
It is important to emphasize that these findings were related to exceptionally high concentrations and conditions that significantly differ from controlled, diluted use. Despite this, caution has become a constant in further development.
Today, DMSO is primarily used in specialized and regulated environments, for example as an auxiliary substance in pharmacy, in laboratories, and in cell and tissue cryopreservation. In these environments, its use is precisely controlled and standardized.
In parallel with this, interest in the practical use of DMSO outside of official medicine has been maintained over the decades. Because of this, it is especially important today that information about the substance is balanced, historically grounded, and free of exaggerated promises.
DMSO is a substance with an unusual combination of physical and chemical properties, which is difficult to find in a single molecule. It is precisely this combination that explains why DMSO is used as a solvent, auxiliary substance and research tool in various scientific fields.
The DMSO molecule is small and symmetrical, which allows it to move quickly in aqueous and fatty environments. Because of this, it easily mixes with water, alcohol, and many organic compounds.
This property is also important in a biological context, as small molecules more easily pass through membranes than larger and more complex structures.
DMSO is an amphiphilic substance – part of the molecule is hydrophilic, part is lipophilic. This means that it can act as a kind of “bridge” between aqueous and lipid environments in the body.
It is precisely because of this property that DMSO can dissolve substances, which would otherwise remain separate (e.g. water-soluble and fat-soluble). How does this work on a molecular level →
In laboratories and pharmacy, DMSO is used as a strong solvent when other liquids are insufficient. In addition, it can stabilize some substances that are otherwise sensitive to degradation or discoloration.
Due to these properties, it has become a standard tool in the storage of cells and tissues (cryopreservation), where it helps reduce damage during freezing.
The action of DMSO is strongly dependent on concentration. Lower concentrations behave differently than higher ones, which affects both the solvent properties and the interaction with tissues.
In scientific literature, it is described that DMSO, depending on concentration, tissue, and conditions, can have either antioxidant or pro-oxidant effects. This means that its effect is not unambiguous, but rather depends on the context of use.
In this context, the literature also mentions antioxidant supportive mechanisms (e.g., vitamin C and other antioxidants), primarily as part of the general balance of oxidative processes in the body, not as a standalone therapy. That is why appropriate concentrations, breaks, and moderation are more important than an aggressive approach.
Understanding the basic mechanisms of DMSO's action helps set realistic expectations and reduce risks arising from incorrect or thoughtless use.
DMSO has special properties that require more caution than typical topical preparations. Most of the complications reported are not due to the substance itself, but to improper use, excessively high concentrations or application on improperly prepared skin.
Higher concentrations of DMSO do not necessarily mean a better choice. They more often cause:
It makes sense to start with lower concentrations and observe the skin's response. With long-term use, breaks are recommended.
In some people, after use, a characteristic garlic-like odor may appear, which is a result of metabolic processes in the body. It is usually transient and is not a sign of danger.
With DMSO, proper dilution is one of the most important factors for safe and meaningful use. The action of DMSO is closely related to water, as water enables the proper arrangement of molecules and their passage through tissues. An overly high concentration does not mean a better effect, but more often leads to irritation or unwanted skin reactions.
DMSO behaves differently at lower concentrations than at higher ones. In water, molecules are arranged in a way that makes it easier for them to pass through tissues, whereas at excessively high concentrations, DMSO molecules strongly bind to each other. This can increase the local effect, while also increasing the risk of redness, a burning sensation, or skin thickening.
Different tissues contain different amounts of water. Soft tissues and areas with good blood circulation usually require lower concentrations than dry or connective tissues.
For most external (topical) uses, DMSO is diluted with distilled or deionized water. This is also the basic recommendation in the literature.
Physiological saline is primarily used on sensitive mucous membranes (e.g., eyes, ears, nose), where maintaining natural osmotic balance is important. For normal use on the skin, physiological saline is not essential and does not offer a general advantage over water.
The table below shows commonly used DMSO concentrations and examples of purposes of use, as mentioned in practice and literature. This is for guidance only, not universal rules.
| Concentration | Ratio (DMSO : water) | Example for 10 ml | Examples of purposes of use |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30–40 % | 3–4 : 7–6 | 3–4 ml DMSO + water to a total of 10 ml | very sensitive skin, first test, superficial tissues, lymphatic areas |
| 50 % | 1 : 1 | 5 ml DMSO + 5 ml water | general local use, soft tissues, tension, supportive use in inflammations |
| 60–70 % | 6–7 : 4–3 | 6–7 ml DMSO + water to a total of 10 ml | deeper soft tissues, joints, tendons, hematomas, localized areas of thickened tissue |
| 80 % | 4 : 1 | 8 ml DMSO + 2 ml water | local points, short-term use, experienced users |
Always perform a patch test on a small area of skin before first use. Mild warmth or transient redness are common reactions and usually subside within 10–20 minutes.
If the response is too strong, reduce the concentration. If the skin tolerates the mixture well, the concentration can be gradually adjusted as needed.
The following is a useful “framework,” not a universal protocol. For specific conditions, it is crucial to consider individual circumstances.
For long-term use, it makes sense to take breaks (e.g. periodically), especially if dryness, flaking or sensitivity occurs.
In some people, transient reactions may occur upon use of DMSO, such as fatigue, headache, a feeling of pressure, mild weakness, or changes in the skin. This is often described in the literature as a detoxification or adaptive response of the body.
Such reactions are usually not a sign of an allergy, but rather a result of changes in the local tissue environment and metabolic processes. In the case of more pronounced reactions, it is advisable to reduce the concentration, lengthen the breaks between applications, or temporarily discontinue use. Observing the response and exercising moderation are key.
One of the most distinctive properties of DMSO is its ability to increase the passage of other substances through the skin and biological membranes. Because of this, combining DMSO with other substances can have a meaningful purpose – but also requires greater caution than usual topical use.
The most common and most neutral combination is DMSO + water. Water enables proper molecular arrangement and control over concentration.
The following combinations are often used in practice due to better tolerability or relief of the sensation of heat.
Due to the permeating effect of DMSO, special caution is needed with certain substances:
Below are the DMSO recipes intended for experienced users who wish to add ingredients, such as colloidal silver, to local mixtures. However, you can also use all the recipes in exactly the same way as described elsewhere in this article – using distilled water or physiological solution, without any additional ingredients.
The recipes and most of the professional information about the action, use, and safety of DMSO in this section are based on the book
Healing with DMSO – The Complete Guide to Safe and Natural Treatments by Amanda Vollmer, which is considered one of the most comprehensive and practically oriented sources in this field.
For each recipe, selected examples of supporting frequency programs for performing frequency therapy with the device
Zapper-Pro are also listed.
You will notice that certain supporting therapies repeat across different recipes, which is not coincidental. You can read an explanation of why this is the case and how to meaningfully start with frequency therapies here:
How to start and why some supporting therapies are always present
.
More information about the connection between organs, frequencies, and the functioning of the body according to the principle of the five elements can be found at this link:
Understanding health according to the principle of the five elements
.
The source of the used frequency programs is the database
ETDFL.com.
The entire book with all frequencies in your language is available free of charge here:
ETDFL frequency list in your language
.
More information about the Zapper-Pro device and its accompanying equipment is available on the website
zapper-pro.si.
Into a clean bottle with a dropper, add iodine, DMSO, and distilled water. Secure the cap and shake until well mixed. Store at room temperature in a dark cabinet.
For nail fungus: Wash the skin and nails thoroughly with a non-toxic soap. Apply 1 to 2 drops (just enough to cover the top and bottom of the nail) twice daily on the nail, under the nail plate, and on the surrounding skin. It may take up to six months for complete improvement.
For athlete's foot: Soak your feet for 5 minutes in a 50% solution of apple cider vinegar and water, then dry thoroughly. Apply 1 to 2 drops (just enough to cover the affected areas) between the toes and on all affected areas of skin twice daily until symptoms subside. If possible, wash shoes in a washing machine or replace old shoes to prevent reinfection.
Lightly crush 30 cloves in a mortar or in a bag with a rolling pin and transfer them to the bottle. Add enough DMSO to cover the cloves, leaving room to shake the bottle and fit the dropper. Shake the bottle daily for the next 7 days. Then strain out the cloves and return the liquid to the bottle. If desired, you can supplement with additional DMSO. Store at room temperature in a dark place.
For toothache: Apply 1 or 2 drops on the affected area 2–3 times daily or as needed. You may need to apply a few drops every 15 minutes until you achieve the desired effect. If there is no relief after one hour, you will need to use other measures. Of course, also visit a dentist.
For muscle or nerve pain: In a small glass container or a glass measuring jar, measure 14 drops of the formula and add 6 drops of clean distilled water or juice from clean aloe vera gel without preservatives. Apply the entire mixture to clean skin on the affected area up to 4 times daily.
Sterility is of crucial importance when preparing eye drops, as the eye is extremely sensitive to contamination by microorganisms.
Disassemble all parts of the dropper bottle. Boil water in a pot and carefully submerge the parts of the bottle in the boiling water using tongs or a spoon. Let them boil for five minutes, then remove them and place them on a clean towel or drying rack to air dry. Once dry, reassemble the parts with clean hands or use clean gloves. During the preparation of the solution, keep the bottle closed to prevent contamination from the air.
Into a sterile bottle with a dropper, using a syringe, first add 6 ml of DMSO. Then add 24 ml of already prepared sterile physiological solution. Close the bottle and gently shake it to evenly mix the liquids. The mixture will slightly warm up due to the exothermic (heat) reaction between DMSO and water. In this way, you will prepare approximately a 20-percent physiological ocular DMSO solution.
Label and date the bottle; it is recommended to prepare a new solution every six months.
For cleaner use of eye drops, thoroughly wash your hands with soap and hot water and dry them with a clean towel before use. Be careful not to touch your eye or the area around your eye with the tip of the dropper, as this would cause contamination. If this happens, wash the dropper in hot soapy water and dry it with a clean paper towel or freshly washed towel.
Add DMSO and colloidal silver to a clean dropper bottle. Close and gently shake. Before use, wait for the exothermic (heat-releasing) reaction to complete.
Apply 1 or 2 drops in each ear 1–2 times daily for one week. Once symptoms subside, continue for a few more days to ensure the issue does not return. Label and date the bottle. Prepare a new solution after six months.
For sinus rinsing intended for the management of sinus infections, polyps, injuries, allergies, or general inflammation, a 5- to 10-percent DMSO solution is ideal. Do not use this solution if the inside of the nose is irritated and/or bleeding.
You will find it easiest to use the mixture with a neti pot.
When preparing, use lukewarm distilled water to prevent bacterial contamination. If you only have tap water available, first bring it to a boil, keep it boiling for 3 minutes, and let it cool until lukewarm. Add iodine-free sea salt to the lukewarm water and mix until it is completely dissolved. Add DMSO and then colloidal silver using a plastic or wooden spoon (not a metal one). Gently mix. You can use this prepared mixture to rinse your sinuses.
If the solution stings too much, add ½ teaspoon of aloe vera gel juice without preservatives to soothe the sinus tissues.
Using a funnel, pour the DMSO and distilled water into the spray bottle. If desired, you can use 50 ml of 15 ppm colloidal silver instead of water. Store the spray in a cool and dry place and prepare a new batch after six months.
Store the spray in a cool and dry place. Prepare a new batch every six months. This formula can be used for various types of wounds, but it is best to wait until the wound stops bleeding before using DMSO. Avoid use on surgical wounds, as the spray could dissolve the stitches.
Combine DMSO, hydrogen peroxide, and distilled water (or distilled water with aloe vera gel juice). Gargle for a few minutes and spit it out. Do this twice daily. Do not swallow this mixture.
If you have oral problems, also address the cause, which is usually related to digestion and nutrition, especially a deficiency of vitamins and minerals. In more serious dental issues, always consult a dentist as soon as possible.
Using a funnel, pour DMSO into the spray bottle. Add aloe vera gel juice, distilled water, and essential oils of rosemary and peppermint. Attach the spray nozzle and shake well.
Spray on clean, dry hair and scalp. Make sure to use a natural shampoo and conditioner. Use enough spray to cover the target area more broadly than the area you are trying to treat. Allow the spray to fully absorb. Shake the bottle well between applications. For long-term alopecia or male pattern baldness, be consistent; ideally 1–2 times daily. In some cases, it may take up to one year of regular use for noticeable hair growth to appear.
Place a funnel in the glass dropper bottle. Add magnesium oil, iodine, vitamins C and B-complex, DMSO, and aloe vera gel juice. Shake well. Store in a cool and dark place and prepare a new mixture every six months.
This mixture is intended for external use only. Apply 3 to 5 ml of the solution once or twice daily on any part of the body you wish to support in healing. Once you have more experience, you may begin experimenting with adding various vitamins or minerals to new mixtures.
When understanding the connection between DMSO and frequency therapies, it is important to consider them not as competitive or mutually exclusive approaches, but as complementary tools that act on different levels of the body's system.
DMSO is fundamentally a physicochemical agent, while frequency therapies represent an informational and regulatory approach. Their connection is not based on direct chemical interaction, but on responsiveness of body tissues.
In practice, frequency therapies are often performed using the device Zapper-Pro, and the use of scalar, pulsed-magnetic, and toroidal fields is also recommended. This is possible using electrodes such as F-Gen and Tor-Gen; more information on this is available on the website zapper-pro.si.
Most programs and frequencies are based on the ETDFL frequency list (etdfl.com). The book with all frequencies is available free of charge in your language here: ETDFL frequency list in your language .
In the ETDFL book, you will find ten-frequency half-hour mini protocols or treatments that you can perform with the Zapper-Pro device. The most recommended starting point is with supportive therapies for organs (especially kidney and liver support) and mitochondria. More information on this can be found in the initial protocol for working with the Zapper-Pro.
DMSO primarily affects the local tissue environment:
The result of these effects is not only local relief, but also a more orderly and less burdened tissue environment. Tissue that is not in acute stress, inflammation, or stagnation usually responds better to regulatory signals.
Frequency therapies do not act chemically, but at an informational level. Their purpose is to influence:
Such therapies are most effective when the body has the opportunity to detect a signal and respond to it. If the tissue is overloaded, inflamed, edematous, or poorly perfused, this response is often impaired.
With the Zapper-Pro device, single-frequency overnight therapies are also possible, among other things, for supporting the kidneys, liver, immune system, and other functions. More about single-frequency therapies (including frequencies for stimulating individual meridians, cranial nerves, individual vertebrae, or the entire spine) can be found here: Single-frequency therapies and broader application of frequency fields .
In support of regeneration and managing oxidative stress, hydrogen water can be used if needed: Hydrogen water as antioxidant support , in certain cases also red and infrared therapy, for example with: Red Light Pad (660 nm / 850 nm) . It is also advisable to pay attention to the acid-base balance in the body , since various parasites, cancer cells and the like proliferate mainly in an acidic body. The article at the link describes how you can easily check the acidity in your body yourself using a pH meter or litmus paper.
DMSO (dimethyl sulfoxide) is a substance with exceptional physical and chemical properties, which, when used properly and responsibly, has broad potential for supportive use. Its special feature is its ability to pass through the skin and affect the local tissue environment, which means it requires more knowledge and caution than typical topical preparations.
DMSO and frequency therapies do not operate on the same level, but rather functionally complement each other. DMSO helps improve the local tissue environment (less tension, better microcirculation), while frequency therapy acts on the body's response at an informational and regulatory level.
In practice, a sequential approach is often used: first local support where appropriate, then frequency therapy. Many users perform this combination using devices such as Zapper-Pro.
DMSO is a powerful tool that requires understanding, responsibility, and context. When used properly and in combination with approaches such as frequency therapy, it provides meaningful support for bodily processes.
The questions and answers below summarize the most common dilemmas that arise when reading literature about DMSO and in its practical use. The purpose of this section is to clarify basic uncertainties and prevent the most common mistakes.
Yes. A mild burning sensation or warmth is common, especially at higher concentrations. The sensation usually subsides within 10–20 minutes. If the burning sensation is strong or long-lasting, the concentration is likely too high.
Redness is a common response due to increased blood flow and the interaction of DMSO with the skin. Transient redness is not concerning, whereas persistent redness is a sign that the concentration should be reduced or a break should be taken.
DMSO is partially metabolized in the body into dimethyl sulfide (DMS), which is excreted through the lungs and skin. The odor is temporary and is not a sign of harmful effects.
The literature emphasizes moderation. Frequent applications, especially with higher concentrations, increase the risk of skin irritation. Taking breaks and observing the response are advisable.
The book emphasizes that most problems arise from improper use. Long-term use requires lower concentrations, breaks, and consistent adherence to safety rules.
Caution is essential. DMSO can affect the passage of substances into tissue, therefore simultaneous use with medications without professional advice is not recommended.
No. For skin contact, only highly purified DMSO with clear declaration and controlled quality is recommended.
No. They are different compounds. MSM is used as a dietary supplement, while DMSO has completely different properties and applications.
True allergies to DMSO are rare. More commonly, it is skin irritation or reactions due to dirty skin, high concentrations, or combinations with other substances.
Pure DMSO has a freezing point around 18–19 °C. Freezing does not mean the substance is spoiled – it re-liquifies upon heating without losing its properties.
DMSO is metabolized and excreted from the body. Nevertheless, the literature recommends taking breaks during regular or long-term use.
Facial skin is more sensitive. If used, lower concentrations and greater caution are recommended.
Special caution is required during pregnancy, breastfeeding, in children, and in individuals with known skin or allergic issues.
The following literature and sources were used as a basis for preparing this page. The text is a summary, adapted for web use and easier understanding.