One of the newer supplements we have developed is the combination of liposomal MSM with liposomal Quercetin.
Methylsulfonylmethane
MSM (methylsulfonylmethane) is a small sulfur-containing molecule that is easily absorbed by the body. MSM is found in various plants (including horsetail), vegetables (broccoli, Brussels sprouts, garlic, red peppers, tomatoes), fruits (apples, grapes), algae, grains and (raw) milk. MSM is quickly degraded with any form of processing (e.g. heating and drying process).
Sulphurous spas were used in ancient times, but also today, for rheumatic complaints and age-related complaints. MSM is also widely used as a gel. Due to its good absorption in the skin, it provides quick relief from pain and ensures flexibility of the joints, muscles and connective tissue.
Mechanism
MSM is part of the natural cycle of sulfur. As you age, there is less sulfur in the body. Sulfur is needed by the body in large quantities and is essential in many bodily functions, amino acids (Methionine and cysteine) and proteins. An important function is the synthesis of collagen and keratin. Sulfur creates double sulfur bonds (disulfide bridges) that provide structure and elasticity in tissue (connective tissue, red blood cells, muscles, skin, hair, nails). A lack of sulfur can lead to stiffening of muscles, impaired pad function of cartilage, decrease in elasticity of long tissue, heart and blood vessels. Furthermore, sulphur ensures good permeability of the cell membrane and thus the functioning of the transport proteins in the cell.
Sulfur is also involved in the formation of bile acids, thiamine (Vit B1) and biotin (Vit B8) and affects blood clotting. MSM has an influence in the production of glutathione, an important intracellular antioxidant.
In addition to the sulfur, two methyl groups are also released during the absorption of MSM, which play a major role in methylation. Methylation is the process by which a methyl group (-CH3) is added to other molecules. This process has a crucial role in DNA methylation, RNA methylation, protein methylation, and other metabolic processes. Reduced methylation has consequences for impaired gene expression, DNA repair processes and disrupted synthesis of neurotransmitters and phospholipids. Furthermore, it can lead to cancer and neurological disorders (depression, anxiety, neurodegenerative diseases) and impaired methylation causes cardiovascular problems.
MSM is also a strong antioxidant because it can create a balance of reactive oxygen derivatives (ROS) and antioxidant enzymes (e.g. Katalase).
MSM has an anti-inflammatory function by inhibiting COX-2 enzymes and an immune-stimulating function by inhibiting interleukin 6, furthermore it has a histamine-lowering effect by inhibiting the release of histamine from mast cells.
There are many ongoing studies into the effect of MSM on cancer. MSM has a cell-killing effect on cancer cells. It is used for breast cancer, esophageal cancer, stomach cancer, liver cancer, colon cancer, bladder cancer and skin cancer.
Indications
Pain, osteoarthritis, rheumatic diseases, allergies, hay fever, asthma, circulation problems, fibromyalgia, muscle cramps, inflammatory processes, stress, fatigue, skin disorders, hair growth, gum disease, gastrointestinal problems (protect gastric mucosa, balances microbiome), immune problems, antimicrobial effect in giardia trichomonas, E.Coli, Salmonella and yeasts, oxidative stress, cancer.
Contraindications
Are not known
Side effects
Its not known. In very sensitive people and animals, intestinal cramps and diarrhoea can occur. MSM can have a detoxifying effect. In that case, it is recommended to build up the dosage.
Interactions
MSM can inhibit platelet aggregation, and therefore has a possible interaction with blood-thinning medications.
Quercetin
Quercetin is a flavonoid found in vegetables (broccoli, kale, asparagus, onion), fruits (apples, grapes, cherries, etc.) and plants (Ginkgo biloba and St. John’s wort). Flavonoids are secondary metabolites of plants that protect the plant against ultraviolet radiation, pathogens and predators. In addition to its protective function for the plant, it also has beneficial effects for humans.
Quercetin is poorly soluble in water and has poor bioavailability. By binding quercetin to phospholipids (liposomal quercetin), its bioavailability is significantly improved.
Mechanism
Quercetin is metabolized in the body by the enzyme CYP3A4, which leads to various metabolites. Quercetin accumulates in lungs, liver, kidneys, and small intestine and is excreted through kidneys, feces, and lungs.
The main action of quercetin is that it is an antioxidant. Quercetin neutralizes free radicals in the body by donating an electron. The free radical is thereby stabilized and damage to cells and tissue is prevented. Furthermore, quercetin increases endogenous antioxidant enzymes (catalase, glutathione peroxidase and SOD), thereby reducing oxidative stress.
Oxidative stress damages mitochondrial DNA, proteins, lipid peroxidation and in inflammation and apoptosis of cardiomyocytes.
Quercetin inhibits certain enzymes (cyclooxygenase (COX) and lipoxygenase (LOX) and cytokines (TNFalpha, interleukin 6 and 1) and therefore has an anti-inflammatory effect.
Quercetin has an antiviral effect by inhibiting virus replication and promoting the immune system.
Quercetin has an antiproliferative, growth suppressant, anti-angiogenesis activity, activates cell death and the immune system. In rodents, studies have been done on tumors of the colon, small intestine, tongue, skin, lung and mammae, melanoma and prostate cancer.
Quercetin protects blood vessels by increasing the production of Nitric Oxide (NO). This leads to vascular removal and blood pressure regulation. It also reduces platelet aggregation.
Quercetin is a natural antihistamine in that it stabilizes mast cells and inhibits the release of histamine from mast cells and basophils. As a result, the allergic reaction in the body is reduced. Furthermore, it reduces inflammation and swelling caused by allergic reactions (by inhibiting TNFalfa and Interleukin 6)
Indications
Antioxidant activity, reduces oxidative stress, anti-inflammatory, chemopreventive effects, liver cancer, gastric cancer and colonrectal cancer. Has a neuroprotective (Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, Huntingtong, MS) and antidepressant effect, lowers cysteine levels in serum and protects against osteoarthritis. Lowers blood pressure and protects against cadiovascular problems. Antimicrobial effects in anterior respiratory tract infections and Helicobacter pylori. Effective substance in the prevention and treatment of Covid-19. Seasonal and food allergies, asthma and skin reactions.
Contraindications
Not known, but advice is to avoid in combination with the glycoside digoxin.
Side effects
Its not known.
Interactions
Quercetin can increase the concentration of cyclosporine.
Quercetin, together with vitamin C and omega 3 oil, has a synergistic effect in neurodegenerative diseases
Conclusion
We have combined these 2 natural substances and processed them into a liposomal product. As a result, we ensure that the bioavailability and therefore the active ingredient in the blood serum and organs is high. So that means that this supplement actually works.
By combining MSM and quercetin, the mechanism of action is broadened and strengthened. The focus is on inflammation inhibition and antihistamine effect. So a nice standalone supplement for hay fever, a pollen allergy and food allergies.
However, the indications are much broader. We use the supplement for chronic intestinal and skin problems, osteoarthritis, cardiovascular problems and is also used for various types of cancer.
Literature used
-Methylsulfonylmethane: applications and safety of a novel dietary supplement. Butawan et al, 2017
-Orthokennis.nl
-Naturafoundation.nl
-The Pharmacological Activity, Biochemical Properties, and Pharmacokinetics of the Major Natural Polyphenolic Flavonoid: Quercetin, Batiha et al, 2020.
-Pharmacological Activity of Quercetin: An Updated Review. Wang et al, 2022.
