Ozone Therapy

Ozone therapy involves the controlled medical use of ozone gas (O₃) through various delivery methods including ozonated water, ozone insufflation, or ozonated blood reinfusion (autohemotherapy). Research suggests this approach may work through hormetic mechanisms, where low-dose oxidative stress potentially triggers beneficial adaptive responses in cellular antioxidant systems. Studies indicate ozone therapy may modulate immune function, improve tissue oxygenation, and stimulate the body's natural detoxification processes.

Limited clinical research has explored ozone therapy's potential applications in wound healing, chronic fatigue, cardiovascular conditions, and infectious diseases. Some studies suggest benefits for diabetic foot ulcers and certain pain conditions, though the evidence remains preliminary. The therapy's proposed mechanisms include activation of immune cells, enhancement of oxygen metabolism, and stimulation of antioxidant enzyme production. However, the quality and scope of human clinical trials remain limited, with most studies being small-scale or lacking proper controls.

Ozone therapy carries significant safety considerations, as ozone is a potent oxidant that can cause respiratory irritation and other adverse effects if improperly administered. The therapy requires specialized equipment and trained practitioners, and its legal status varies significantly between countries. While some European nations recognize certain forms of ozone therapy as legitimate medical treatments, regulatory agencies in many other countries have not approved its use, citing insufficient evidence and safety concerns.