DMSO has the unusual ability to depress the freezing point of water dramatically, while maintaining viability with many cell and tissue types. It is a sulfur-containing organic compound that is derived from MSM, and can be used internally or externally. 

DMSO's powerful ability to dissolve and carry anything with which it is mixed into the muscles, ligaments and blood can be an advantage when one wants to carry drugs or herbal extracts into the body through the skin.