What Is Ozone Therapy?

Ozone therapy has gained attention in integrative and functional medicine as a complementary approach aimed at supporting the body’s healing and regulatory systems. While it has a long history of use in parts of Europe and is increasingly discussed in U.S. wellness settings, many patients still have questions about what ozone therapy is, how it works, and whether it is safe and effective. This article provides an evidence-informed overview for those exploring this modality as part of a personalized, functional medicine plan.

What Is Ozone Therapy?

Ozone (O₃) is a naturally occurring molecule composed of three oxygen atoms. In medical settings, ozone is generated from pure medical-grade oxygen using specialized equipment and then administered in carefully controlled doses.

Unlike environmental ozone (a pollutant when inhaled), medical ozone is used in precise concentrations and through specific routes designed to avoid lung exposure. In functional and integrative practices, ozone therapy is typically considered an oxidative signaling therapy—a controlled stressor intended to stimulate adaptive and regulatory responses in the body.

How Ozone Therapy Works

From a functional medicine perspective, ozone therapy may influence several key physiological systems:

1. Redox Balance and Cellular SignalingLow, controlled oxidative stress can activate the body’s antioxidant and detoxification pathways, including the Nrf2 system. This may enhance the body’s ability to neutralize free radicals and maintain cellular resilience.

2. Immune ModulationOzone has been shown in laboratory and clinical studies to influence cytokine signaling and immune cell activity. Rather than simply “stimulating” or “suppressing” immunity, it may help modulate immune responses toward better balance.

3. Improved Oxygen UtilizationOzone therapy can increase levels of 2,3-DPG in red blood cells, a molecule that facilitates oxygen release to tissues. This may support mitochondrial function and cellular energy production.

4. Antimicrobial EffectsOzone has broad-spectrum activity against bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa in vitro. This property is one reason it is sometimes explored in chronic or recurrent infections within an integrative care framework.

At Advanced Wellness & Health, we typically administer ozone by drawing small amount of blood, exposing it to ozone, and reinfusing it.

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