Ozone therapy is an affordable, holistic, and natural approach to healing that uses ozone gas (a naturally occurring form of oxygen) to help improve a wide variety of medical conditions and boost overall well-being.
Ozone has been used for therapeutic purposes since the mid-1800s, but it’s only been in the past decade or two that ozone therapy has become more mainstream. People use it as a standalone treatment or combined with conventional medicine to help with anything from infections and colds to arthritis, anti-aging, heart disease, immune disease, and even cancer.
In this article, we will discuss holistic therapy, its different forms, and its growth as a whole. But our main focus is to educate you about ozone and discuss why ozone therapy, in particular, is quickly becoming one of the most popular natural treatment options in 2024.
What is Holistic Therapy?
Holistic or natural therapy, also known as Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM), covers a wide range of natural treatments and approaches that promote healing or enhance overall physical health and/or mental wellbeing.
Unlike conventional medicine, which often only treats specific symptoms or diseases, holistic practices tap into the body’s natural healing abilities and typically focus on enhancing whole-body wellness.
Take managing chronic pain as an example. In conventional medicine, a doctor might prescribe an addictive pain medication or suggest invasive surgery. Whereas a holistic strategy might involve medical ozone therapy, which can alleviate pain by reducing inflammation and promoting tissue repair. Incorporating meditation and yoga is another holistic approach that might be used to improve flexibility and promote relaxation.
The Surge in Holistic Therapy
Be it a standalone strategy or combined with conventional medicine and treatments, more and more people are turning to holistic and natural therapies as a way to manage pain and treat both short-term infections and ailments and long-term chronic illnesses.
According to a new study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, complementary health approaches have surged significantly in the last several years and show no signs of slowing down.
Here are only a few reasons why we might be seeing this surge in popularity and why people seem to be turning away from conventional medicine and embracing a natural approach to treating illness and managing their health and overall wellness:
Rise in Chronic Diseases
The surge in holistic medicine could be because the number of people with chronic medical conditions is rising. Despite public awareness and progress in modern medicine, we are an overall sick nation.
According to the American Hospital Association, nearly half the population has at least one chronic illness, and this number is expected to drastically increase by 2030. Additionally, it seems we are seeing more communicable infectious diseases resulting in “epidemics and pandemics.”
There is growing evidence that combining conventional medicine with holistic therapies could be beneficial for preventing and treating the behavior and lifestyle-related factors that often cause these diseases.
Don’t Want to Take Medication
There are many reasons why someone might not want to take pharmaceuticals or visit a traditional doctor’s office. Some people are concerned about the side effects of medications, while others prefer natural remedies that align with their personal beliefs or lifestyles.
Additionally, polls show there is a growing distrust of the government and pharmaceutical companies. In 2024, people are speaking out about wanting to have more control over their health decisions. Many people feel that holistic practitioners offer a more patient-centered approach, often listening more attentively, spending more time with them, and focusing on individualized care.
Conventional Treatments Haven’t Worked
For one reason or another, conventional treatments don’t work for some people. Or, they only work up to a certain point. This leads many to become curious about holistic and natural therapies.
Additionally, conventional medication and care can be costly, even with insurance. Holistic treatments are often more accessible and more affordable in the long term.
Preference for an Integrative Approach
Some people don’t want to completely ditch conventional treatment. Instead, they prefer a comprehensive approach to health that combines the best of both traditional and alternative medicine, providing a more balanced approach to healing.
Tackling an illness conventionally and holistically gives many peace of mind that they are doing everything possible to heal.
Types of Holistic Treatments
From herbal remedies and IV vitamins to acupuncture, massage, yoga, and now ozone therapy, there are dozens of holistic treatment options. Which one you should explore and the effectiveness of these therapies depends on many factors, including your specific health concerns and goals.
Here is a list of some of the most popular holistic treatments to consider in 2024:
IV Vitamin Therapy
The administration of vitamins and minerals intravenously. The formula used varies based on your symptoms and the ailment you hope to improve.
Naturopathy
The use of natural therapies, diet, and lifestyle changes to support the body’s natural healing abilities.
Herbal Medicine
The use of plant-derived substances to support the body’s natural healing processes and overall health.
Chiropractic Care
Hands-on manipulation of the spine and other joints to help alleviate pain and improve function. Sometimes, other techniques such as graston and cupping are used during a chiropractor appointment.
Massage Therapy
Manipulation of muscles and soft tissues to promote relaxation, relieve tension, and enhance overall well-being.
Reflexology
The application of pressure to specific points on the feet, hands, and ears to stimulate nerve endings and enhance circulation.
Acupuncture
The insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate energy flow and promote healing.
Breathwork
Conscious control and regulation of breathing patterns to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and enhance mental clarity.
Hypnotherapy
A trained hypnotist uses hypnosis to promote therapeutic change by accessing the subconscious mind.
Light Therapy
Exposure to either natural sunlight or artificial light at specific wavelengths.
Spiritual Therapy
Counseling or therapeutic practices that integrate spiritual beliefs and practices to promote healing, personal growth, and a sense of connection to something greater than oneself.
Many studies show that spirituality gives people more acceptance, better coping skills, and more hope for their situation.
Meditation
Practice of mindfulness and focused attention to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and enhance emotional well-being.
Tai Chi
Martial arts-inspired practice involving slow, flowing movements and deep breathing to promote balance, flexibility, and relaxation.
Reiki
A Japanese technique for stress reduction and relaxation that promotes healing through the laying on of hands.
Aromatherapy
Use of essential oils from plants to promote physical and psychological well-being through inhalation or topical application.
Yoga
Physical, mental, and spiritual practice that combines breath control, meditation, and movement to enhance overall health and well-being.
Ozone Therapy
A medical treatment that uses ozone gas to support various health conditions by enhancing oxygen utilization and immune function.
Why Ozone Therapy is a Popular Holistic Treatment
Ozone therapy is becoming increasingly popular worldwide as the most popular holistic treatment option due to its numerous health benefits and ability to help improve a wide range of conditions.
Ozone is particularly beneficial if you are dealing with a chronic condition such as fibromyalgia, an autoimmune disease, a chronic infection, a persistent wound, or if you want to enhance circulation, especially if your blood flow issues are due to peripheral artery disease or diabetes.
Many use ozone therapy as a standalone treatment, while others like to combine it with other popular holistic approaches, such as IV vitamin therapy, naturopathy, meditation, yoga, and/or acupuncture.
The beneficial properties of ozone range from having antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral effects to enhancing the body’s natural antioxidant defenses, reducing inflammation, improving oxygen metabolism, boosting the immune system, and more.
However, ozone therapy’s versatility is only one reason why it is gaining traction in the holistic and natural medicine space. Here are five other reasons why ozone therapy is popular in 2024:
1: Ozone Therapy is Affordable
Compared to the cost of conventional medications, treatments, and doctor visits, ozone therapy is much more cost-effective, especially in the long-run.
The cost of ozone therapy varies depending on geographical location and the number of treatments needed. To get an exact estimate, book a consultation with an ozone therapy clinic near you.
2: Ozone Therapy is Fast and Easy
When you see a conventional doctor, we all know it is common to spend more time in the waiting room than in the actual exam room. Then, if you have to pick up a prescription, there is usually a long wait time at the pharmacy.
Clinics that offer ozone therapy operate by strict appointment times and typically have you in and out (including check-in) in an hour or less.
Exactly how long an ozone therapy session lasts depends on your individual needs, the protocol at the clinic administering ozone, and the administration method. But typically, an IV ozone therapy session (the most widely used method) only takes around 30 minutes to an hour.
3: Ozone Therapy is Non-Invasive
Many treatment protocols require downtime and most medications have pretty nasty side-effects. Ozone treatments are non-invasive and require little to no downtime following treatment.
Patients often come in on their way to work or even on their lunch break and can go about their day as they normally would following treatment.
4: Ozone Therapy is Safe
As long as ozone is administered in a clinical setting by a trained professional with knowledge, expertise, and training in ozone therapy, it is considered safe and has minimal side effects.
If you are considering ozone therapy, you should always discuss it with your doctor and talk to your ozone therapy provider about your health history and concerns.
5: Ozone Therapy is Supported by Emerging Research
Ozone has been studied for decades, with many positive findings, but it is still a somewhat controversial therapy. The good news is that ongoing studies and clinical trials continue to uncover new positive benefits and applications of ozone therapy, increasing its credibility and acceptance as an effective way to enhance overall health and well-being.
Where to get Ozone Therapy
Medical ozone treatment offers a variety of potential benefits for treating many medical conditions and enhancing overall health and well-being. By boosting immune system function, improving cell oxygenation and repair, and providing antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral effects, ozone therapy has repeatedly been shown to be an effective and safe natural treatment option.
That said, ozone therapy may not be suitable for everyone. If you’re considering ozone therapy, you should consult with your doctor and a healthcare professional specializing in this type of holistic therapy. They can evaluate your unique health needs and determine if ozone therapy is the best option for you.
If you decide to move forward with ozone therapy, make sure you are very cautious of where you go and who you allow to administer it, as it requires specific training, expertise, and adherence to safety protocols.
It should go without saying, but you should never attempt ozone therapy yourself. Ozone can be dangerous if not correctly administered by trained healthcare professionals. Only certified practitioners with experience in ozone therapy should administer treatments.
Furthermore, when selecting a clinic and healthcare provider, ensure they have a good reputation, proper certifications, and follow strict hygiene and safety measures.
At Relive Health, we have numerous clinics across the United States with nurses trained in administering medical ozone. Check out our clinic locator and book a consultation to find out if ozone is right for you.
