We all know oxygen is vital to our survival, so what if….we could have more?
IV ozone therapy is an alternative therapy that introduces ozone into the bloodstream and may support immune, cardiovascular, and anti-inflammatory functions.
This therapy dates back to the 19th century, it was used to disinfect medical supplies and conditions during World War 1. As medical research advanced, ozone therapy has grown in popularity and reliability. Although ozone therapy is not FDA approved as a medical treatment in the USA, it is approved and widely popular in other medical-forward countries like China and Turkey.
Ozone therapy is not a medical treatment, but it reigns popular because of the stimulation of natural bodily processes—increasing circulation, white blood cell count, activating antioxidants, and more. Many studies (in the US, see sources) have found it effective for supplementing treatment for rheumatoid arthritis, chronic disease, and cardiovascular health. In this blog, we’ll dive into these findings and explore exactly how ozone IVs benefit the body.
DISCLAIMER: This blog is for educational purposes only. It should not be used as treatment or taken as medical advice. Please consult a medical provider if you are considering IV ozone therapy.
Alive and Well Clinic Phone Number (Texas Residents Only): (737) 637-3988
How IV Ozone Therapy Works
“IV ozone therapy” refers to two different treatments: Major Autohemotherapy (MAH) and Extracorporeal Blood Oxygenation and Ozonation (EBO2).
MAH
During MAH, a nurse will remove ½ pint of blood from your body via IV. Once the blood is removed, it’s mixed with a combination of saline and medical grade ozone gas. After the integration, your blood is returned via IV drip over several minutes.
The process is painless and takes about an hour to complete. You may choose from three doses:
Standard
Concentration of ozone is 30 gamma – Equivalent to a 1 pass of ozone – 250 ml of ozone drawn up in the syringe.
Intermediate
Concentration of 70 gamma – Equivalent to 3 or 5 passes of ozone – 250 ml of ozone drawn up in the syringe.
High
Concentration of 70 gamma BUT a HIGHER volume of 1000ml of ozone drawn up in the syringe.
EBO2
EBO2 is a more advanced and expensive ozone IV therapy than MAH. It may be more suitable for individuals with severe health concerns.
Instead of taking ½ pint of blood, the EBO2 process extracts 5-7 liters of blood over a 45-minute period. The blood is then filtered through a dialysis-like system that filters out extra inactive proteins and separates fats, cholesterol, heavy metal toxins, and diseased dead cells. The machine achieves this by trapping and removing them from the blood.
Health Benefits of IV Ozone Therapy
Enhances White Blood Cell Activity
White blood cells are the cells we rely on to attack germs and pathogens in the body. The stronger our white blood cells are, the stronger our immune system is. However, infections, disease, and medications can all hamper white blood cells and weaken our immune systems.
IV ozone therapy benefits white blood cells by supplying them with more fuel—oxygen! The ozone integration supports strengthening the innate and adaptive immunity.
As the ozone penetrates the cells, the cells become stronger and don’t have to work as hard to fight infections. As a result, IV ozone therapy helps alleviate symptoms related to illness and protect from future disease.
Anti-Inflammation and Pain Relief
Inflammation is a natural response to a threat, and it’s not a problem if it’s short term. However, when white blood cells are weak, the body may produce too much cytokine–a protein responsible for inflammation—and cause chronic inflammation. Chronic inflammation can take a toll on the body and cause pain, nerve damage, and imbalances throughout the body.
Since ozone therapy supports strengthening white blood cells, it may contribute to regulating cytokine production. With the regulation of cytokine, inflammation and pain may decrease.
Choosing IV ozone therapy as a tool for pain relief is more than just short term. IV ozone therapy works to repair the areas that are causing pain, giving you long-term and preventative benefits.
Supports Detoxification
Our bodies naturally have the tools to detox, but sometimes we need a boost. IV ozone therapy benefits the body’s release of antioxidants and blood flow. Increased antioxidants and easier blood flow sends support to damaged tissues and cells. Once the antioxidants reach the tissue or cell, the antioxidant can neutralize the attacks and help the body detox.
Increased Circulation
Inefficient circulation in the body can cause pain, ulcers, slow healing, and cardiovascular problems. IV ozone therapy benefits efficient and increased circulation through the body.
It all goes back to adding oxygen into the body! Adding ozone into the body may help our blood vessels widen and support easier blood flow. The circulation means that more nutrients and oxygen can target body parts that need it the most—damaged tissues, ulcers, and infections. By targeting sensitive areas, the circulation may support the healing process and thus, pain relief.
Revitalizing the Mitochondria
The mitochondria is responsible for generating the energy to power a cell’s functions. A strong mitochondria powers strong cells.
Studies reveal that IV ozone therapy may be a significant driver in mitochondrial function; thus producing more energy for the body and creating a better capacity to handle stress. This mitochondrial boost may be beneficial for optimizing health or improving quality of life for those with chronic or acute disease.
Applications of IV Ozone Therapy Benefits
IV ozone therapy does not cure any disease or health concern on its own. However, IV ozone therapy may be effective in supporting treatment for these health issues.
Chronic Disease
Those who struggle with chronic disease are all too familiar with pain, fatigue, inflammation, and flare-ups. IV ozone therapy may be a useful tool for managing chronic disease beyond just temporary symptom relief. The increased blood flow and anti-inflammation may provide a boost of energy for those struggling with day-to-day tasks from chronic disease.
Bacteria, Virus, and Fungi
Ozone IV treatment does not cure disease, but it does supply the body with the ability to fight infections easier. Studies have shown that ozone weakens bacteria, fungi, and virus cells to inhibit their ability to spread so rapidly. Combining this fight with the immunity benefits of ozone IV therapy and antibiotics shows promising results.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
The IV ozone therapy benefits align with the struggles of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) like chronic inflammation, pain, and swelling.
Ozone’s activation of antioxidants and white blood cell growth is integral to relieving the inflammation and oxidative stress from RA. Additionally, the increased circulation supports sending antioxidants to specific joints for repair. As a whole, ozone IV therapy may be a supportive long-term solution for those with RA looking for alleviated symptoms and improved quality of life.
Cardiovascular Health
Cardiovascular health is a really important topic to talk about in regards to IV ozone therapy. Not only for those struggling with cardiovascular disease, but also for those looking for preventative measures.
According to the American Heart Association, 90% of cardiovascular disease is preventatable from lifestyle changes. Yes, IV ozone therapy benefits do NOT prevent heart disease, but using it as a preventive measure may be helpful for overall health.
IV ozone therapy supports seamless blood circulation by widening blood vessels for easier passage. Widening blood vessels may support individuals who are concerned about clogged arteries.
Optimization of Health
You don’t need to have a disease or specific health concern to benefit from IV ozone therapy! IV ozone therapy is a reliable tool for optimizing health to improve your healthspan and longevity.
IV ozone therapy boosts many of our body’s systems—immunity, mitochondria, white blood cells, detoxification, and circulation—we can all reap benefits from this! Keeping your body in optimal condition builds a foundation for graceful aging, long-term brain function, and endurance against toxins.
IV Ozone Therapy FAQ
How Do I Know if Ozone Therapy is Right For Me?
Always discuss with a medical provider before starting IV ozone therapy. They may run lab tests or ask about your medical history before approval.
Who Shouldn’t Have IV Ozone Therapy?
IV Ozone therapy is not recommended for those who currently have cancer, are pregnant, high doses of vitamin K, or a genetic blood clotting disorder.
Are There Side Effects to IV Ozone Therapy?
IV ozone therapy generally does not have severe side effects. Many patients do not experience side effects at all. If you do experience side effects, it’s likely to be temporary.
Common side effects include:
- Fatigue
- Muscle soreness
- Lightheadedness
- Headache
Is IV Ozone Therapy Covered by Insurance?
IV ozone therapy is not covered by insurance.
Booking Your IV Ozone Appointment
IV ozone therapy is a highly regarded process that may strenghten body processes such as circulation, inflammation, white blood cell use, and detoxification. Studies continue to be conducted, but results are promising for chronic disease, infection, RA, and cardiovascular health.
Although IV ozone therapy benefits don’t cure disease, it does have health supports that cannot be ignored.
At Alive and Well, we offer MAH and EBO2 for individuals looking to tackle their health concerns. We recommend consulting with a medical professional prior to your appointment. Talk to our clinic and make an appointment today!
Sources:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5674660/
http://clinmedjournals.org/articles/ijp/international-journal-of-physiatry-ijp-2-007.php?jid=ijp
