If you’re into biohacking, alternative health, or just love a good wellness trend, you may have heard whispers about ozone therapy.
No, we’re not talking about the ozone layer in the sky, we’re talking about using ozone—a supercharged form of oxygen, to potentially boost health.
What is Ozone Therapy?
Ozone gas is a form of oxygen, composed of three oxygen atoms (O3). In the upper atmosphere, a layer of this gas protects the Earth from the sun’s UV radiation.
Ozone therapy has been around for over a century and involves the administration of ozone (O3), into the body through various methods.
How is Ozone Administered
Intravenous (IV) infusion - mixing ozone with your blood and reinfusing it.
Injections - Intramuscular injections are also common.
Rectal insufflation- Ozone gas is introduced through the rectum so it can enter the colon and bloodstream.
Skin exposure - Used on the skin through a sealed bag or medical chamber, much like hyperbaric oxygen therapy.
Ozonated water – is water that has been treated with ozone gas, making it antimicrobial and useful in dental therapy, cancer treatment, food processing, etc.
Ozonated Oil – Applied topically for skin conditions.
Nasal or Ear Insufflation – For sinus infections and ear issues.
Ozone Sauna – A full-body detox experience!
What Are the Benefits of Ozone Therapy?
While research is still evolving, proponents suggest ozone therapy may:
Boost Oxygenation – Ozone can improve how your body utilizes oxygen, potentially aiding athletic recovery, chronic fatigue, and making your body less hospitable to disease (like cancer).
Immune System Modulation - Ozone therapy can stimulate white blood cells, helping the body fight infections.
Reduces Inflammation – reduces chronic pain and chronic illness.
Antimicrobial Effects – Can inactivate bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa, potentially aiding in the treatment of infections.
Improve Mitochondrial Function – Increases energy and overall health.
Help with Detoxification – Aids in removing toxins from the body.
Speeds Up Healing – Great for wound healing, post-surgical recovery, and chronic infections.
Fights Cancer – Ozone therapy helps create an oxygen-rich environment where cancer cells struggle to survive. Unlike normal cells, which thrive in an oxygen-rich environment, cancer cells prefer low-oxygen (anaerobic) conditions. Ozone therapy floods the body with oxygen, making it difficult for cancer cells to survive and spread. Ozone can help:
-Enhance immune function to attack cancer cells
-Improves mitochondrial function and increases oxygen delivery to tissues, creating an inhospitable environment for cancer
-Support detoxification by breaking down harmful substances in the body
-Reduce side effects of chemotherapy and radiation
Who Should Consider Ozone Therapy?
People with chronic infections (Lyme, mold toxicity, viral infections)
Those suffering from autoimmune diseases
Anyone looking to boost overall wellness and longevity
People with poor circulation or cardiovascular issues
Those recovering from surgery or injuries
Cancer patients seeking alternative or complementary therapies
Those who wish to improve athletic performance and recovery
Risks & Side Effects
The potential for serious side effects makes ozone therapy controversial.
Respiratory Issues: Inhaling ozone can cause lung and throat irritation, leading to coughing, shortness of breath, and damage to lung tissue. medicalnewstoday.com
Unpredictable Reactions: Due to its instability, ozone can be unpredictable, and improper administration may lead to adverse effects. healthline.com
Herxheimer Reaction – A temporary worsening of symptoms due to die-off of bacteria or viruses.
Potential Blood Clotting Issues – Some studies suggest ozone could alter blood properties. (NIH Study)
Lack of FDA Approval – The FDA has warned against using ozone therapy as a medical treatment.
Where to Get Ozone Therapy
Since ozone therapy is not mainstream, it’s typically available at:
Integrative and functional medicine clinics
Biohacking centers
Holistic wellness centers
Naturopathic Doctors' Offices
At-Home Devices (for ozone water or rectal insufflation)
*Look for practitioners trained in ozone therapy through organizations like the American Academy of Ozonotherapy.
That’s a Wrap
Ozone therapy is an intriguing alternative treatment with promising potential, but it’s not without controversy.
What do you think? Have you tried ozone therapy? Let us know in the comments!
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