MOD122 – Ozone Therapy

Definition

Ozone therapy is an alternative medical treatment that involves introducing ozone, a reactive form of oxygen (O3), into the body to purportedly promote healing, boost the immune system, and treat various health conditions.

Explanation

Ozone therapy utilizes medical-grade ozone, which is created using an ozone generator device. The therapy aims to increase the amount of oxygen in the body, potentially boosting the immune system and promoting healing through cell regeneration. There are several methods of administering ozone therapy:

1. Autohemotherapy: Blood is drawn from the patient, mixed with ozone, and reinfused back into the body. The “10-pass” method involves repeating this process ten times in one session.
2. Intramuscular injections: Ozone is mixed with a small amount of oxygen and injected directly into muscles for localized pain relief.
3. Ozonated saline infusion: Ozone is dissolved in saline solution and administered as an intravenous drip.
4. Rectal or vaginal insufflation: Ozone gas is introduced into body cavities.
5. Topical application: Ozonated oils or water are applied to the skin.
6. Ozone sauna: The body is exposed to ozone gas in a controlled environment.

Proponents claim ozone therapy can treat various conditions, including:

• Chronic pain and inflammation
• Infections (viral, bacterial, and fungal)
• Cardiovascular diseases
• Autoimmune disorders
• Chronic fatigue syndrome
• Wound healing
• Cancer (as a complementary treatment)

Evidence to Efficacy

Ozone therapy has shown promising potential for addressing various health concerns, with several studies highlighting its efficacy in different areas of medicine.

A comprehensive umbrella review published in the National Centre for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) examined the effectiveness of ozone therapy for knee osteoarthritis. The study reported statistically significant effects in pain reduction when using ozone therapy compared to placebo groups. This research suggests that ozone therapy could be a valuable option for managing chronic pain conditions.

The Frontiers in Public Health journal presented an evidence gap map that showcased the contributions of ozone treatment in controlling pain, infections, inflammation, and wound healing. The review analysed 26 systematic reviews, revealing 334 associations between interventions and outcomes. Notably, 154 of these associations showed positive effects, with an additional 23 demonstrating potentially positive outcomes.

In the realm of cancer care, ozone therapy has been explored as a complementary treatment. Research from Geodon Hospital in Barcelona, Spain, examined 10 cases of advanced metastatic cancer in patients who underwent combination therapy with ozone. The results indicated that when combined with traditional treatments, ozone therapy offered additional hope to patients struggling with advanced cancer.

For musculoskeletal conditions, a study published by the NCBI highlighted the expanding use of medical ozone in the treatment of chronic pain in Spain. The research demonstrated beneficial effects on the ability to modulate redox balance, cellular inflammation status, and adaptation to ischemia/reperfusion processes.

While more extensive research is ongoing, these studies and case reports highlight ozone therapy’s potential as a valuable tool for addressing various health concerns. Its unique approach of harnessing the power of ozone offers an exciting avenue for those seeking alternative or complementary approaches to health management.

The Neuroscience

Ozone therapy engages fascinating aspects of neuroscience and physiology to promote healing and wellness. Here’s an accessible overview of key scientific concepts related to this practice:

Cellular Oxygenation: Ozone therapy dramatically enhances cellular oxygenation. When ozone dissolves in blood, it forms oxygen and reactive oxygen species (ROS). This triggers a cascade of events that increases the release of oxygen from haemoglobin, boosting tissue oxygenation. At a quantum level, this process involves electron transfers that energise cells and optimise their function.

Oxidative Preconditioning: Ozone induces a controlled, mild oxidative stress that activates the body’s antioxidant systems. This phenomenon, known as oxidative preconditioning, upregulates antioxidant enzymes like superoxide dismutase and catalase. This adaptive response strengthens cellular defences against more severe oxidative challenges.

Nrf2 Pathway Activation: Ozone therapy powerfully activates the Nrf2 pathway, a master regulator of cellular antioxidant responses. This activation triggers the production of antioxidant response elements (ARE), enhancing the body’s ability to neutralise free radicals and reduce inflammation.

Immune Modulation: Ozone interacts with immune cells, modulating their activity. It stimulates the production of cytokines like interferon-gamma and interleukin-2, enhancing the body’s immune response. This immunomodulatory effect helps balance the immune system, potentially benefiting both overactive and underactive immune states.

Mitochondrial Stimulation: At the cellular level, ozone therapy enhances mitochondrial function. It increases the activity of the electron transport chain, boosting ATP production. This energetic boost supports cellular repair processes and overall vitality.

Quantum Coherence: Some researchers propose that ozone therapy influences quantum coherence in biological systems. This concept suggests that ozone’s interactions with cellular water and biomolecules create more organised, coherent states that optimise information transfer and energy flow within cells.

Nitric Oxide Modulation: Ozone therapy influences nitric oxide (NO) metabolism. It enhances the production of NO, a crucial signalling molecule that regulates blood flow, neurotransmission, and immune function. This effect contributes to improved circulation and tissue oxygenation.

Lipid Oxidation Products: When ozone reacts with blood, it generates lipid oxidation products (LOPs) like 4-hydroxynonenal. These LOPs act as secondary messengers, triggering beneficial cellular responses including enhanced antioxidant production and improved metabolic efficiency.

Redox Signalling: Ozone therapy influences redox signalling pathways in cells. By modulating the balance of oxidants and antioxidants, it affects numerous cellular processes including gene expression, protein function, and cell cycle regulation.

Neuroplasticity Enhancement: The increased oxygenation and cellular energetics resulting from ozone therapy support neuroplasticity – the brain’s ability to form new neural connections. This enhanced neuroplasticity supports cognitive function, learning, and emotional resilience.

While many of these concepts are still being researched, ozone therapy offers an intriguing approach to health and wellness that intersects with various scientific fields. The practice encourages individuals to explore their innate capacity for healing and self-regulation, tapping into the body’s remarkable ability to adapt and thrive in response to controlled oxidative challenges.

Governing Body

There isn’t a specific governing body for ozone therapy in the UK. However, there are UK-based organisations that offer training, set standards, and provide guidance for ozone therapy practitioners. Here’s an overview:

The Ozone Society UK provides educational resources and training for ozone therapy including guidelines set by European and international ozone therapy organisations including adherence to the “Low Dose Concept” guidelines

Medical Ozone Research Institute (MORI) offers official training in medical ozone therapy for qualified health professionals in the UK and provides CPD-accredited courses. It ensures compliance with health and safety procedures.

Dotolo Europe offers ozone therapy practitioner training days with certification in the UK.

While these are not regulatory bodies, they play crucial roles in establishing best practices, offering training, and promoting quality standards for ozone therapy in the UK. They also often align their practices with international standards set by organisations like the European Cooperation of Medical Ozone Societies and the International Scientific Committee of Ozone Therapy.

What Good Looks Like

When you experience a good ozone therapy session, you’ll notice several key elements that set it apart:

• As you begin, you’ll feel a sense of professionalism and care from your practitioner. They’ll explain the specific ozone therapy method being used, whether it’s the 10-pass treatment, intravenous, or another approach.
• You’ll be comfortably positioned, typically reclining, as the practitioner prepares the ozone. You’ll see them using a medical-grade ozone generator, ensuring precise control over the ozone concentration.
• If you’re receiving intravenous ozone therapy, you’ll experience a smooth blood draw. The practitioner will use a specialised glass vial to mix your blood with the ozone, explaining that this prevents any unwanted reactions.
• During a 10-pass treatment, you’ll be aware of the rhythmic process of blood extraction, ozonation, and reinfusion. Each ‘pass’ should take about 30-45 seconds, and you’ll be able to track the progress.
• Throughout the session, you’ll feel minimal discomfort. The practitioner will ensure you’re relaxed and will monitor you closely for any adverse reactions.
• You’ll notice the session lasts between 30-60 minutes, depending on the specific treatment. During this time, you might experience a mild tingling sensation, but overall, the process should be painless.
• The practitioner will explain each step as it happens, helping you understand the purpose of each part of the treatment. They’ll be open to answering any questions you have during the process.
• By the end of the session, you should feel well-informed about the treatment you’ve received and what to expect in the coming hours and days. A good practitioner will provide clear aftercare instructions.

Remember, a high-quality ozone therapy experience should leave you feeling cared for, informed, and optimistic about the potential benefits. The practitioner’s expertise, the quality of the equipment, and their attention to your comfort and safety are all crucial elements of an exceptional ozone therapy session.

What to Ask a Practitioner

Here are key questions to help identify an exceptional ozone therapy practitioner, along with specific elements to look for in their answers:

Can you explain the different methods of ozone administration you offer and when you would recommend each?

Desired answer: Detailed descriptions of major autohemotherapy (MAH), minor autohemotherapy, rectal insufflation, and the 10-pass method. They should mention specific concentrations (e.g., 10-70 μg/ml) and volumes for each method.

How do you determine the appropriate ozone concentration and volume for each patient?

Desired answer: References to the “low dose concept”, individualised dosing based on the patient’s condition, and specific ranges (e.g., starting at 15-20 μg/ml for MAH and increasing gradually).

What specific ozone generator do you use, and how do you ensure its accuracy?

Desired answer: Mention of medical-grade generators like Herrmann, Zotzmann, or Longevity. They should discuss regular calibration and the importance of precise ozone measurement.

How do you prepare the patient’s blood for major autohemotherapy?

Desired answer: Description of using sodium citrate as an anticoagulant, specific mixing ratios (e.g., 10 ml sodium citrate to 190 ml blood), and the importance of gentle mixing to avoid hemolysis.

Can you explain the concept of “hormesis” in relation to ozone therapy?

Desired answer: Understanding that low doses of ozone stimulate beneficial adaptive responses, while high doses can be harmful. They should mention the activation of Nrf2 pathway and upregulation of antioxidant enzymes.

How do you monitor for and manage potential side effects during treatment?

Desired answer: Mention of specific side effects like Herxheimer reaction, and strategies to mitigate them such as adjusting ozone concentration or hydration status.

What specific contraindications do you screen for before administering ozone therapy?

Desired answer: Mention of G6PD deficiency, recent myocardial infarction, pregnancy, hyperthyroidism, and thrombocytopenia as absolute contraindications.

How do you integrate ozone therapy with other treatments or medications a patient might be receiving?

Desired answer: Understanding of potential interactions, such as with blood thinners or antioxidant supplements, and strategies for safe integration.

An exceptional practitioner MUST include:

• Specific references to ozone concentrations in μg/ml
• Understanding of the “low dose concept” and hormesis
• Detailed knowledge of different administration methods and their indications
• Familiarity with potential side effects and contraindications
• Emphasis on individualised treatment protocols

Self-Study Resources:

Ozone therapy should always be performed by a qualified practitioner in a proper clinical setting. It is not suitable for self-administration or home use.

Ozone: The Clean, Green Solution by Dr. Velio Bocci, which provides a comprehensive overview of ozone therapy.

Related Therapies:

Holistic Nutrition (MOD068): An approach to diet and lifestyle that considers the whole person – body, mind, and spirit.

Herbal Medicine (MOD067): The use of plant-based remedies to treat various health conditions. Herbal medicine can complement flower essence therapy by addressing physical symptoms alongside emotional imbalances.