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The Ozone Factor

“I have been fatigued for more than five years. My infectious disease specialist has told me I have a chronic viral illness, but he has had little to help me treat the problem other than rest,” were the words of Adam, a 50-year-old patient of mine.

My plan was a series of intravenous infusions where Adam’s blood was to be mixed with medical grade ozone and put back in his body through a vein in his arm and carried throughout his bloodstream back to the cells of his body. The effect would be to stimulate the energy-producing factories in his cells, known as mitochondria, and to produce energy effectively. In addition, this treatment dramatically enhances the function of the immune system to eradicate infections. Sure enough, within just three treatments, Adam’s energy began to return, and after completing ten treatments, he felt like he did in his 20’s.

The health of your body depends upon the health of your cells. The most significant determining factor for the health of your cells is oxygen.  All the biological processes that occur in the body require oxygen! This is why you cannot live long without oxygen. A lack of oxygen for 3 to 5 minutes leads to irreversible brain damage and death can occur 4 to 6 minutes later.

We have all seen people with lung and heart problems use oxygen masks and nasal tubes to improve oxygen intake. But there are other ways to maximize your cellular oxygen using a more direct route. The results can be amazing!

The medical use of ozone has been around for over a hundred years. Yet few doctors are aware of the published research demonstrating its potent effect in treating several illnesses.

Cuban, Russian, and German doctors routinely prescribe medical ozone treatments to help patients treat various diseases that range from infections to cancer to chronic fatigue. I attended one medical conference in the U.S. where the speaker was Dr. Silvia Menendez Cepero, a renowned expert on the medical use of ozone and has published several papers in medical journals on the subject. She reviewed fascinating research on how Cuban doctors use medical ozone to treat diabetic ulcers that would normally require amputation successfully. She had slides showing the progression of the treatment. The initial skin ulcers would make most people queasy. After successive treatments intravenously and topically, many of these patients had their lesions completely healed and their limbs saved.

She also noted that Cuba has numerous ozone clinics where the Cuban government subsidizes treatments since they are relatively inexpensive. Furthermore, these treatments work so well that it saves the socialized medicine system a lot of money. Fortunately, you have a growing number of clinics in the United States that utilize medical ozone, including my clinic, the Stengler Center for Integrative Medicine.

History of Ozone

  • 1857 first ozone generator develop in Germany
  • 1880 Dr. John Kellogg uses ozone steam saunas in Michigan
  • 1885 Published “Ozone” by Dr. Charles Kenworthy, MD about the use of ozone
  • 1898 Institute for Oxygen Therapy Healing: Experiments of injections by Thauerkauf and Luth injecting ozone.
  • 1904 “The Medical Use of Ozonated Water and Oil” by Charles Marchand published, has the U.S. Surgeons General’s stamp of approval on it.
  • 1914-1918 Ozone used in World War 1 for wounds and effects from the poisonous gasses.
  • 1915 Dr. Albert Wolff of Berlin used ozone in treating colon cancer, cervical cancer and decubitus ulcers.
  • 1938 Dr. Aubourg and Dr. Lacoste write “Medical Ozone: Production, Dosage and Methods of Clinical Application”. Explaining 8,000 applications without harmful side effects
  • 1970s-1980s: Uses in AIDS and Cancer
  • 1982: German University published a study called “Adverse Effects in Ozone-Oxygen Therapy” (1,000 therapists who treated 5,000,000 patients and found to be effective for 90% of patients)
  • 1983 the first International Ozone Association medical ozone conference held in Washington, D.C.
  • 1987 Dr. Siegfried Rilling and Dr. Renate Viebahn: “The Use of Ozone in Medicine”
  • 1990 Cuban reports of treating glaucoma, conjunctivitis and retinitis pigmentosa
  • 2005 and 2011 international recognized authority Dr Velio Bocci publishes two scientific references: “Oxygen-Ozone Therapy-A Critical Evaluation” and “Ozone- A New Medical Drug”
  • 2011 book published by U.S. Doctor Frank Shallenberger M.D. “Principles and Applications of Ozone Therapy. A Practical Guideline For Physicians.”

Ozone is a molecule that consists of three oxygen atoms. It is formed naturally when electricity (such as lightning) or ultra-violet light acts on a molecule of 02(oxygen). This causes two oxygen atoms to separate into single oxygen atoms very temporarily. Most of these oxygen atoms will very quickly unite again to form O2 (oxygen), but a small amount will create O3 (ozone). Doctors and scientists can also use special ozone generators that use electricity to form ozone artificially.

The three oxygen atoms share the same electrons. This sharing causes all three oxygen atoms to be “excitable” since there are not enough electrons. This is a good thing as it makes ozone a powerful oxidant. As an oxidant, ozone interacts with amino acid and lipid bonds and forms what are known as peroxides. These peroxides are collectively known as ozonides. Ozonides, as well as ozone, have the following benefits directly or indirectly in the body through the following mechanisms:

  • Stimulates the immune system
  • Modulates (balances) the immune system
  • Kills pathogens directly
  • Increases oxygenation of tissues
  • Activation of Platelets and Growth Factors
  • Improves circulation
  • Improves cellular energy production
  • Stimulates the body’s own antioxidant production
  • Stimulates stem cell production

It is interesting to note that our body’s immune system generates ozone. This should tell us that it is something good to augment with proper medical treatment.

Oxygen molecules contain energy that our cells need. In his authoritative book on the subject, Principles and Applications of Ozone Therapy. A Practical Guideline For Physicians, Frank Shallenberger MD explains that decreased oxygen utilization by our cells is a major cause of degenerative disease. Without getting too technical, a lack of oxygen leads to toxicity in the cell and degeneration of the mitochondria (the energy-producing powerhouse of the cell). Shallenberger states, “oxygen utilization appears to be the single most determinant of health, aging, and degenerative disease.” He then describes how ozone therapy stimulates the production of NAD (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide). This link is critical since the energy-producing cycle in our cells requires NAD as the primary mechanism for oxygen utilization to occur and cell replication and repair.

When we breathe in oxygen from our lungs, it is carried by a component of our red blood cells known as hemoglobin. The movement of oxygen from hemoglobin into the cell mitochondria is paramount for energy production. You can breathe in oxygen all day long, but you will not have good health if it does not get into your cells efficiently.  An inefficient transfer of oxygen from hemoglobin into the cells is a big problem for chronic diseases. The transfer requires the activity of an enzyme known as 2,3DPG (diphospho-glycerate). People with chronic illness have decreased 2,3 DPG activity. Ozone therapy works largely by increasing the uptake of oxygen by stimulating the enzyme 2,3 DPG so that cells get better oxygen uptake.

Infections

Ozone therapy is an excellent treatment for acute and chronic infections. There are many mechanisms by which it helps the body fight infection. Dr. Rowen has uncovered research that shows ozone disrupts the bonds of the virus membrane and other molecular bonds that lead to viral destruction. Ozone also has a direct killing effect on bacteria by damaging the bacteria cell wall.

Once administered, ozone does not stay in the blood very long. Instead it leaves behind short and long-acting reactive oxygen species which attack the membranes of disease-causing pathogens. As well, it stimulates the immune system response. This includes an increase of white blood cell activity as well the stimulation of chemicals that enhance the immune system response, such as specific cytokines (interferon, beta, gamma) and interleukins (IL-1, IL-2, IL-8, TGF-B). During an infection, our white blood cells can mount a burst of oxidative stress that is up to 100 times their resting rate. Ozone therapy supports this natural oxidative “burst” as the white blood cells try to wipe out invaders.

Regular doses of medical ozone do not damage our cells. They are designed to interact with oxygen (they are aerobic). Our cells have protective mechanisms to protect against the harm from oxygen, and they also have repair mechanisms when exposed to excessive oxidation. Most bacteria and viruses do not have these protective and repair mechanisms, and so they die. Again, remember that our cells naturally produce reactive oxygen species such as hydrogen peroxide and ozone. Therefore ozone therapy supports this natural process.

With some infections, particular immune modulators such as Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha may cause too much inflammation and result in cell damage. Ozone was also shown to reduce excess levels, which can help one survive a lethal infection.

Types of Medical Ozone Therapies

There are different ways to administer medical ozone.  These include:

IV Major Auto-Hemotherapy

This treatment involves withdrawing a patient’s blood into a sterile medical container and then mixed with medical grade ozone and heparin (blood thinner). It is then dripped back into the patient’s vein for approximately 25 minutes. Major Auto-Hemotherapy is the most common ozone treatment we use at our clinic

Ozone Steam Sauna

With this treatment, the patient sits in an enclosed chamber except for the head. Steam is combined with ozone. The dilation of the pores through sweating allows ozone to be absorbed via the skin. This treatment enhances the regular detoxification effects of sauna therapy. We utilize this treatment at our clinic.

Minor Auto-Hemotherapy

With this procedure, blood is drawn from the patient and mixed with medical ozone. It is then injected into the buttocks muscle instead of given intravenously.

Rectal ozone

This involves the administration of medical ozone contained in a sterile insufflation bag connected with a unique connecting tube that is inserted into the rectum. Ozone is highly absorbed by the blood vessels in the rectum and surrounding area. This can be used for digestive ailments or systemic treatment due to the high absorption.

Topical Ozone Treatments

Ozone can be applied topically to the skin in cases of infections with carriers such as water and oils. Commercially available ozone oils (often olive oil) are available.

Injections. The injection of medical-grade ozone is becoming popular as a non-steroidal treatment of joint pain. There are also different injections available for dental infections and sinus infections. Doctors at our center utilize this effective treatment.

Conditions Treated

Since all our cells require oxygen to function, numerous conditions can benefit from medical ozone. Following are some of the situations where medical ozone should be strongly considered:

Acute and Chronic Infections

Ozone can be effective for acute viral and bacterial infections. I have also seen great results with patients suffering from chronic Lyme Disease and Post-Covid Syndrome.

Ozone can be used for dental infections such as gingivitis, periodontitis, and root canal infections. An increasing number of holistic dentists are offering this type of therapy. A review study published on the use of ozone in periodontics in 2012 concluded,” In comparison with classical medicine modalities such as antibiotics and disinfectants, ozone therapy is quite inexpensive, predictable and conservative. The ozone therapy has been more beneficial than present conventional therapeutic modalities.”

Age-Related Macular Degeneration

The dry form of macular degeneration can be helped with ozone therapy to help slow progression and improve visual acuity. A study published in the International Journal of Ophthalmology found that those treated with Major Auto-Hemotherapy had no loss of visual acuity at 6 months and 12-month follow-ups compared to the control group which showed 40% loss at 12 months.

Auto-Immune Diseases

Emerging evidence is showing a link between chronic infections and a dysregulated immune system and auto-immune diseases. As I mentioned earlier, ozone therapy works to modulate and balance the immune system and reduces inflammation.

Cancer

Medical ozone is gaining popularity for the Integrative treatment of cancer. While not a cure by itself, medical ozone can be an essential part of a comprehensive treatment plan. As noted earlier in the article, ozone improves immune system function, which is critical in the treatment of cancer. I recently found that a well-known holistic cancer hospital relied strongly on the use of intravenous ozone and vitamin C as a foundational part of their Integrative Cancer therapy.

Cardiovascular Disease

Ozone therapy can be a valuable treatment for those with a cardiovascular disease where circulation is impaired. This includes coronary artery disease, angina, intermittent claudication, and diabetes (many people with diabetes have cardiovascular disease), where circulation to the extremities is impaired. Many patients tell me they notice an improvement in circulation to their lower legs and reduce swelling from treatments. Dr. Shallenberger has found the combination of chelation therapy and Major Auto-Hemotherapy to be highly effective for those with chronic coronary artery disease. I have been using this combination therapy with patients as well.

Fibromyalgia

A lack of oxygen is one of the mechanisms by which cells produce more pain signals. Patients with Fibromyalgia have been found to have reduced mitochondrial energy production. Ozone works to support cellular energy production and balance inflammatory reactions directly. A small trial showed excellent improvement in 35% of patients receiving Major Auto-Hemotherapy with ozone. The participants received twice-weekly treatments for a total of 16 treatments. My experience is that this treatment, combined with the right dietary changes and specific nutritional supplements, takes the improvement into the 80% range.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Two of the common Inflammatory Bowel Diseases are Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis. The use of ozone therapy can be effective, particularly when administered with rectal insufflation.

Osteoarthritis

The most common form of arthritis is osteoarthritis. This is where degeneration of the joint occurs, which results in stiffness and pain. The injection of ozone into or near the surrounding joint works to reduce inflammation and pain, as well as stimulate tissue healing. We have seen many patients at our clinic respond to this non-toxic injection therapy. There are several studies supporting this approach. For example, a study published in the journal of Pain Physician reviewed several studies where ozone was injected to treat low back pain related to a herniated disc. Researchers found overall good results with this procedure. Another study found that ozone injections significantly reduced pain for those afflicted with osteoarthritis of the joints and spine.

Safety

When performed by health professionals with proper training in medical ozone therapy, the treatments are very safe. People with chronic health conditions usually require a series of treatments that can range from one to two weekly treatments until doing well.

A Powerful Natural Therapy

Medical ozone therapy offers people a holistic approach to improve cellular oxygenation. This leads to better energy levels, less inflammation, less pain, and better immune function.

Dr. Mark Stengler NMD, MS, is a bestselling author in private practice in Encinitas, California, at the Stengler Center for Integrative Medicine. His newsletter, Dr. Stengler’s Health Breakthroughs, is available at  www.markstengler.com and his product line at www.drstengler.com

Selected References

Al-Jaziri AA1, Mahmoodi SM. Painkilling effect of ozone-oxygen injection on spine and joint osteoarthritis. Saudi Med J. 2008 Apr;29(4):553-7.

Borrelli, E, et al. Effects of major ozonated autohemotherapy in the treatment of dry age related macular Degeneration: a randomized controlled clinical study. 2012.Int J. Ophthalmol.

Brenden Cochran. Medical Applications of Ozone. California Association of Naturopathic Doctors Webinar November 15, 2015.

G Gupta and B Mansi. Ozone therapy in periodontics. J Med Life. 2012 Feb 22; 5(1): 59–67.

Magalhaes FN1, Dotta L, Sasse A, Teixera MJ, Fonoff ET. Ozone therapy as a treatment for low back pain secondary to herniated disc: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Pain Physician. 2012 Mar-Apr;15(2).

Robert Jay Rowen. American College for Advancement in Medicine Conference. November 5, 2014.

Frank Shallenberger. Principles and Applications of Ozone Therapy. A Practical Guideline For Physicians. March 2016.