with DMSO Recipes by “A Midwestern Doctor”
Maria Low
September – October 2026 • Vol 4, No 24
For a time in my life, I worked for the Crown Zellerbach Paper Company. The company manages its own forest and is a producer of numerous paper products. I learned about an employee that brought home a chuck of wood from a conifer tree. His little girl was drawn to the wood and would place it against her head. The father noted that when she did this, the headaches that she suffered from went away. He was puzzled. He began to study about the qualities of pine trees and other conifers and discovered that the molecular structure of the various chemicals had healing properties.
In the paper industry, there are many byproducts, one of the products made from pulp is Dimethyl Sulfoxide (DMS). DMSO was first discovered by a Russian Scientist in the 1800s. It was first introduced to the scientific community as a therapeutic principle in 1963 by a research team headed by Stanley W. Jacob at a medical institute in Oregon. He was able to use the compound
for its transfer qualities through the skin and membranes without causing damage. He found that DMSO has a variety of applications for inflammation, as an analgesic (pain relief), as an antioxidant, and more. DMSO is used today in the pharmaceutical industry to support the delivery of drugs into the system. DMSO is recommended by veterinarians, for horses in particular, as a liniment.
DMSO can be made from grain; however, when it is derived from conifers such as pines it’s more helpful for medicinal purposes. Wood chips, usually from the paper industry, have cellulose fiber and, in the process of separation, produce a “black liquor.” To produce Dimethyl Sulfoxide (DMSO) from black liquor, the concentrated liquid undergoes thermal reaction or distillation to yield crude dimethyl sulfide (DMS). This DMS is then catalytically oxidized, using oxygen or nitrogen dioxide, and purified via distillation to yield high-purity DMSO.
DMSO is well known for carrying small molecules and medicines through the skin into the body. It can be used for sprains, sore muscles, headaches, strained tendons, sore elbows and fingers, and more. When mixed with natural herbal essential oils, DMSO dissolves both water-soluble and oil-soluble plant compounds and rapidly carries them deep into underlying tissues.
It is important to use only organic, pure essential oils. If there are impurities in the oils, they will also be transferred into the body. Young Living has the science behind it, the experience, and the standards to use their oils for personal and internal use.
Young Living has numerous oils that contain anywhere from 80 to 300 or more chemical constituents. Additionally, essential oils must be distilled or extracted so the constituents are released in a balanced manner. Extreme temperatures damage the molecules and the healing properties are no longer available. Once distilled, Young Living labs use a scientific testing process to ensure their Seed to Seal standard is met before each batch is bottled.
When applying essential oils with DMSO, place a few drops of oil and wait a couple minutes, then apply a few drops of DMSO. Start out with a low concentration and use mild essential oils, such as: Chamomile, Pine, Lavender, Tea Tree, Eucalyptus, Frankincense, or the Stress Away blend. If you are not experienced, avoid Cinnamon, Oregano, Thyme, Basil, or Wintergreen, as these are strongly penetrating oils.
A predisposition test is recommended—each person is different. Perhaps an individual is on medication, perhaps they have an acidic pH, or some people are sensitive. Simply apply the mixture in the crease of your arm or behind your knee cap. If there is redness or itchiness, adjust the formula, or the application may not be for you.
An option would be to use a carrier oil in your formula, such as: jojoba oil, sesame oil, coconut oil, castor oil, almond oil, or the Young Living carrier oil blend (V6 Vegetable Carrier Oil Complex). Do not apply the formula too close to the eyes.
DMSO changes skin permeability allowing the active properties of the essential oil to transfer.
If you are new to DMSO, be sure you are using medical grade, often available at health foods stores. If you are applying the solution “straight,” (a mixture of DMSO and essential oil), it is potent and that is the main purpose people use for their condition; however, it is wise to test the formula and adjust. The frequency of application depends on the condition. For example, a foot injury may need application several times a day. Using a four-ounce glass bottle, add half with a carrier oil, the rest with DMSO and about eight drops of essential oil. (If mixing two oils, blend four drops each.) Cap bottle and percuss the bottle in your hand to blend. This is a moderate formula and can be adjusted according to its purpose. Be sure the area is clean before applying to a person or to an animal.
Keep in mind that DMSO is a solvent and is a water-like solution that absorbs quickly. It amplifies the action as a carrier of the essential oil. Always use caution and common sense as you learn the process. This information is given for general knowledge and is not meant to replace medical recommendations.
Use only medical grade DMSO and the pure Young Living oils for best results.
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DMSO RECIPES from “A Midwestern Doctor” and Dr. Amelia White
It is difficult to find a good list of DMSO applications for specific conditions and ailments, with proper dosages, instructions, and precautions. I recommend THIS LINK from “A Midwestern Doctor,” the author of The Forgotten Side of Medicine, a popular alternative-health and medical commentary newsletter hosted on Substack.
Just a few of the FORTY DMSO solutions he outlines are: Sinus rinse, topical scar healing cream, joint pain relief gel, acne treatment, restless leg soothing spray, cold sore relief, burn soothing gel, and detoxifying foot bath. This list is a compilation from the book by Dr. Amelia White, The Complete DMSO Healing Bible.
A Midwestern Doctor’s Conclusion
Learning about DMSO often sparks curiosity about complementary natural remedies, such as magnesium, CBD oil, and botanical medicines. This book has highlighted many of these combinations, emphasizing how DMSO enhances their absorption and efficacy. In doing so, DMSO becomes part of a broader conversation about how natural treatments can work in harmony to promote optimal health. Moreover, DMSO encourages users to critically evaluate the substances they put into and onto their bodies.
From its ability to carry both beneficial and harmful compounds through the skin barrier, DMSO teaches an important lesson—the choices we make about what we consume, apply, and expose ourselves to have a profound impact on our health. Despite its numerous benefits, DMSO remains underutilized and often misunderstood. Regulatory agencies, influenced by pharmaceutical interests, have limited public access to DMSO and its full potential. This lack of awareness is a significant barrier to its widespread adoption. However, the growing body of research and anecdotal evidence continues to advocate for DMSO’s rightful place in natural medicine.
DMSO is not just a molecule; it is a testament to the power of natural healing. Its ability to alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, enhance absorption, and promote holistic health has transformed countless lives. DMSO represents a safe, effective, and versatile alternative to conventional pharmaceuticals, offering hope and relief to those seeking natural solutions. For anyone looking to take control of their health, DMSO offers a path forward—path rooted in the principles of nature, science, and self-care.
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Learn more from Young Living members who make essential oils a natural part of their lifestyle:
Maria Low #10279 • yleo.aspirations@gmail.com
