What is ozone?
Ozone (O₃) is a molecule made up of three oxygen atoms. While the oxygen we breathe (O₂) has two atoms, ozone carries an extra atom, which makes it chemically more active. In medical use, ozone is produced from pure oxygen with special devices in controlled doses and is always given as an ozone–oxygen mixture.
Ozone therapy is a complementary medicine practice in which this mixture is given to the body by specific methods with the aim of increasing the tissues’ use of oxygen and regulating circulation.
How is ozone therapy given?
The most common method is major autohaemotherapy. It is preferred because it is practical and largely painless:
- 1Up to about 100 ml of blood is drawn from a vein in the arm into a sterile bottle via a drip line.
- 2In a closed system, the blood is mixed with an ozone–oxygen mixture at the dose set by the doctor.
- 3The ozonated blood is slowly returned through the same IV line.
Depending on the complaint, other methods such as minor autohaemotherapy or local injections into a joint or muscle may also be used. The doctor decides which method is suitable after an examination and assessment.
What are the possible benefits?
Ozone therapy is a supportive treatment; its effect varies from person to person. Possible effects reported in clinical experience and the literature include:
- ✓ May help increase the blood and oxygen reaching the tissues
- ✓ May support the immune system
- ✓ May provide support in joint and muscle pain
- ✓ May support wound healing
When is it used as a complementary treatment?
Ozone therapy can be planned in addition to existing medical treatment in chronic conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure and chronic hepatitis, in joint pain, lumbar and cervical disc herniations and osteoarthritis, and to support immunity. It does not replace your regular medication or the recommendations of the doctor who follows you.
Who is it not suitable for?
- G6PD (glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase) enzyme deficiency
- Pregnancy, especially early pregnancy
- Uncontrolled hyperthyroidism
- Bleeding disorders or use of blood-thinning medication
- Uncontrolled asthma
Side effects and safety
When given at the correct dose under sterile and hygienic conditions, serious side effects are very rare. Mild bruising where the IV line was placed or brief tiredness after a session may occur. For your safety, share all your health problems and the medication you take with your doctor before the session.
Before and after a session
Before
Do not come on an empty stomach, drink plenty of water and bring a list of your medication.
After
You can return to daily life straight away; keep drinking fluids.
Sources
- Republic of Türkiye Ministry of Health. Regulation on Traditional and Complementary Medicine Practices. Official Gazette, 27 October 2014, No. 29158.
- Elvis AM, Ekta JS. Ozone therapy: A clinical review. J Nat Sci Biol Med. 2011;2(1):66–70.
- Sagai M, Bocci V. Mechanisms of action involved in ozone therapy: is healing induced via a mild oxidative stress? Med Gas Res. 2011;1:29.
