What is Ozone Therapy | Everything You Need to Know

Ozone therapy is a hot topic, and it seems like everyone has an opinion about it. But what is it, and how does it work? We answer important questions about ozone therapy to help you decide if it’s the right treatment for you.

What Is Ozone Therapy | Uses, Benefits, Risks and More

What Is Ozone Therapy? | Overview

Ozone is a molecule with three oxygen atoms and a dynamically unstable structure. That means it’s a form of oxygen with unique characteristics.

Ozone therapy is an alternative treatment that’s been around for more than a century. It treats a variety of ailments by introducing ozone into the body.

Ozone therapy takes various forms. However, your healthcare provider will typically administer ozone in one of the following ways:

Intravenously: A doctor withdraws blood and infuses it with ozone gas before returning your blood through an IV.
Intramuscularly: Injecting ozone, usually mixed with oxygen, into a muscle.
Direct to tissue: Applying ozone gas directly to a wound.

According to a 2018 study, ozone reacts with body fluids. It initiates protein and red blood cell formation and activates the immune system. In turn, this increases oxygen levels.

Additionally, ozone may inactivate harmful microorganisms inside your body, such as yeast, bacteria, viruses, and fungi.

What Is Ozone Therapy? | Uses

water purification machine | What Is Ozone Therapy? | Uses | What is Ozone Therapy | Everything You Need to Know

Ozone has been studied and used for decades. One of the first uses was water purification, and today many bottling companies use ozone to disinfect water because it’s tasteless.

Ozone’s sterilizes and sanitizes medical equipment, and you might have noticed ozone when visiting the dentist as well.

During World War 1, doctors disinfected soldiers’ wounds with ozone because it may promote faster wound healing.

Modern ozone therapy has a variety of uses. But, research is ongoing to determine the effectiveness and safety.

Immune System Support

Ozone therapy may improve immune disorders and strengthen the immune system.

In a 2018 study, researchers found a significant decrease in the viral load of HIV patients over two years of treatment. A lower viral load means a better long-term health outlook.

Firstly, ozone may regulate the immune system by stimulating messenger cell production (cytokines) that activate an immune response. Additionally, it may change the way the immune system deals with inflammation.

Besides, it’s antimicrobial properties help fight harmful pathogens.

Due to its immune support properties, ozone may treat conditions such as autoimmune disease, cancer, and viral infections. However, there’s not enough evidence yet to support these claims irrefutably.

Diabetes

Blood cell visualisation in the circle shape flowing | Diabetes | What is Ozone Therapy | Everything You Need to Know

While it doesn’t necessarily treat diabetes, ozone therapy may reduce the disease’s risk of complications.

For example, a common side effect of diabetes is poor wound healing. Ozone may help wounds heal faster.

Poor blood circulation is another known diabetes complication. Ozone may improve blood flow because it supplies the body with more readily available oxygen. It also supports red blood cells that carry oxygen.

Respiratory Conditions

Ozone increases blood oxygen levels. As a result, it may improve some breathing disorders.

In particular, one study found intravenous ozone therapy improved the quality of life for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients.

Pain and Inflammation

Ozone therapy acts on nerve endings and may inhibit pain intensity. In a 2018 study, researchers concluded that it could be especially beneficial for musculoskeletal conditions.

Can It Be Harmful?

Ozone is an unstable molecule. For this reason, it’s not always predictable. And, as with any medical treatment, there are some risks.

The risks include air embolism and bloodborne infections.

It’s important to note that ozone gas is toxic. It can irritate the lungs and cause breathing difficulties. Consequently, the FDA issued a warning about inhaling ozone in 2019.

However, some reports found ozone therapy a safe and effective treatment when administered correctly.

What Are The Benefits?

The benefits may include:

Pain relief
Reduced inflammation
Increased joint mobility
Stronger immune system
Improved blood flow
Antifungal, antibacterial, and antiviral effect
Improved cell function
Boosts brain function
Faster wound healing
Weight loss
Detoxing effects
Anti-aging

What Is Ozone Therapy At Home?

In short, ozone therapy at home, are treatments you can administer yourself. You’ll need an oxygen tank and a medical ozone generator with accessories.

There are a few at-home ozone treatments, but the most common are ozone water and insufflation.

Ozone water is the safest home treatment. It may treat skin conditions and promote wound healing. Additionally, it’s antiseptic properties may be beneficial for oral infections and ulcers.

Rectal, vaginal, and ear insufflation is what it sounds like – blowing ozone gas directly into a body cavity. It treats localized conditions, such as sinus pressure and vaginal infections.

Always consult a medical professional before attempting ozone therapy at home.

In conclusion, when administered in the right doses, it may benefit most people in some way. Various studies look at its possible uses, including immune system support, pain, and inflammation relief, and wound healing. While some reports found it safe, it’s a toxic gas that carries possible risks.

YM offers a range of cutting-edge treatments. We have offices in Ocala, Daytona, Fruitland Park, and Orlando. Contact us today and find out how we can help you reach your health goals!

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