Sulfur
SULFUR / SULPHUR was often called brimstone or burning stone. Ignited sulfur is mentioned in ancient records of many countries as being used in religious ceremonies and for purifying or fumigating buildings. The name that now stands, was derived from the Latin sulphurum. The medical books of Dioscorides of Greece and Pliny the Elder mention it. The Romans used it as medicine during warfare. Alchemists recognized sulfur as a mineral substance that can be melted and burned. It was first classified in 1777.
Organic sulfur is a nonmetallic element found in all body tissues. It is especially concentrated in cartilage and the keratin of skin and hair. It is an acid-forming mineral and a constituent of the amino acids taurine, cysteine, glutathione, and methionine, as well as that of the B vitamins thiamin, pantothenic acid, and biotin. It is also an integral part of insulin and some enzymes, including Coenzyme A.
Sulfur aids the liver in bile secretion and maintains oxygen balance for proper brain function and is involved in the clotting of blood. It assists in the fight against bacterial infections by disinfecting the blood, helping the body resist bacteria, and protecting cell protoplasm. As an added benefit, because of its ability to protect against the harmful effects of radiation and pollution, sulfur slows down the ageing process.
There is no RDA, but any diet with ample protein will provide sufficient sulphur.
Summary:
Names include: sulfur, sulphur, S, S-2, S--, and element 16.
Deficiency symptoms include: dull hair, deterioration of complexion, skin eruptions, abscesses, chronic oozing ulcers, deterioration of fingernails, decreased bacterial resistance, yellow coating on back of tongue, fatigue, pain in extremeties.
Toxicity: No known toxicities from organic sulphur, but large amounts of ingested inorganic forms can be hazardous.
Inhibitors include: insufficient protein or B Vitamins.
Helpers include: Vitamin B complex, B1, B5, Bw, and protein.
