Ozone is a gas formed by the combination of three oxygen atoms. It is sometimes referred to as “enriched oxygen” because it is a highly energized form of the two-atom oxygen commonly found in the atmosphere. Ozone acts as a protective filter mechanism against the high-energy ultraviolet rays emitted by the sun, helping to maintain the biological balance in the biosphere.
Ozone therapy, which has been frequently used in recent times, can be described as the conversion of oxygen into ozone gas, a triatomic and unstable form of oxygen, with the help of medical ozone generators and its administration to the body through various methods.
Recent studies have shown that ozone therapy, which involves administering low doses of reactive oxygen to the body, produces products at low levels (physiological levels) that play a role in various biological mechanisms, especially intracellular communication, and mediate therapeutic effects. Repeated low-dose ozone applications strengthen the antioxidant system, increasing resistance to oxidative stress. In essence, ozone therapy is based on the principle of creating controlled oxidative stress in the body and activating the antioxidant system.
Ozone therapy:
⦁ Accelerates cell renewal.
⦁ Increases the oxygen-carrying capacity and elasticity of red blood cells and improves blood flow, thus addressing oxygen deficiency. It is also used as an adjunctive treatment for vascular blockages by causing blood vessels to dilate.
⦁ Interacts directly with fat cells, leading to a reduction in cholesterol and localized fat loss.
⦁ Lowers blood sugar levels.
⦁ Reduces cartilage loss in cases of calcification, stimulates the production of joint fluid and cartilage, and reduces joint pain while improving mobility.
What Conditions is Ozone Therapy Used For?
Ozone therapy can be used for various conditions, including but not limited to:
Pain management (joint calcification, joint rheumatism, neck and back pain, fibromyalgia, soft tissue problems, heel spurs, tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow)
Fatigue, mental and physical fatigue
Sleep disorders
Pressure sores, non-healing diabetic wounds, and gangrene
Intestinal diseases (Ulcerative Colitis, Fissure, Fistula)
General immune system deficiency
Dizziness (Vertigo)
Sinusitis
Virus-related diseases such as Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C
Resistant urinary tract infections, vaginal infections caused by bacteria and fungi
Rheumatoid Arthritis, Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, Chronic Pain Syndrome, and other rheumatic diseases
Autoimmune diseases (such as Sjögren’s syndrome, Hashimoto’s disease)
Certain skin conditions (Psoriasis, Acne)
Herpes infections (Cold sores, Shingles, Shingles pain)
Chronic phases of ischemic heart disease
Neurological diseases such as Parkinson’s disease, dementia, trigeminal neuralgia, Alzheimer’s disease, headaches, and migraines
Acute and chronic allergies (seasonal allergies)
Vascular blockages
Metabolic diseases (Diabetes, Thyroid disease, Hypertension)
Digestive system diseases
Chronic kidney and lung diseases
Ear, nose, and throat diseases such as Meniere’s syndrome and tinnitus
Calcifications and herniated discs (spinal calcifications)
Ozone therapy can also be used for the following purposes:
Increasing resistance to acute and chronic infections
Enhancing performance in athletes
Aesthetic purposes (melting abdominal, waist, hip fat and waist reduction, cellulite)
Repairing damage caused by smoking
Anti-aging by eliminating toxins from the body and delaying aging.
Benefits of Ozone Therapy:
Regulates and strengthens the immune system, increasing resistance to infections.
Promotes muscle relaxation by removing accumulated toxins, leading to muscle relaxation, softening, and increased flexibility.
Improves joint pain and muscle discomfort.
Regenerates blood vessels (arteries and veins) and normalizes blood pressure.
Enhances brain function and memory.
Reduces symptoms such as fatigue, lack of energy, sleep disorders, difficulty focusing, chronic fatigue, depression, anxiety, and panic attacks.
Lowers high blood sugar levels.
Lowers high levels of fats (cholesterol, triglycerides) in the blood.
Improves skin appearance by increasing blood circulation in the skin, leading to a new, firm, and smooth appearance.
Increases blood circulation to cells and tissues.
Cleanses the blood and lymphatic systems.
Normalizes the hormone and enzyme systems.
Methods of Ozone Therapy Application:
Major Method: This is the most common method. With this method, 100 ml of blood is taken from the person and mixed with 100 cc of ozone gas, then reintroduced into the person’s bloodstream through a vein.
Minor Method: A small amount of blood (2-5 cc) is taken from the person, mixed with a predetermined dose of ozone, and injected back into the person, often into the shoulder or hip muscle.
Administration of Ozone to Body Cavities: Ozone can be administered rectally, vaginally, or through ear irrigation.
Injection of Ozone Gas into Joints and Muscles: Ozone gas is injected into painful joints and muscle areas with a suitable needle, commonly used for musculoskeletal disorders.
Ozone Bag: Used especially for non-healing wounds, diabetic foot ulcers, skin lesions, infections, circulatory disorders, neuropathic pain, and restless leg syndrome.
Ozone Cupping: Primarily used for pressure sores.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ozone Therapy:
Who Is Ozone Therapy Not Suitable For?
There are very few situations in which ozone therapy cannot be applied. It is generally possible to use ozone therapy for almost any condition except during the first three months of pregnancy, uncontrolled hyperthyroidism, blood clotting disorders, and Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase (G6PD) enzyme deficiency.
Is Ozone Harmful to Health?
Ozone gas derived from oxygen undergoes enzymatic reactions and reverts to oxygen, its raw material, within a very short time, making it safe for use. There are no known side effects of ozone therapy.
How Long Does It Take for Ozone Therapy to Take Effect?
The ideal treatment duration in ozone therapy can vary depending on the condition and the dose and frequency determined by the physician, but it is generally completed in 10-15 sessions. After the treatment, which lasts about 20 minutes, patients do not feel any discomfort, and they can continue their daily activities.