Why Ultraviolet Blood Irradiation (UVBI) Is Gaining Interest in Functional Medicine

At 417 Integrative Medicine, patients often ask about new therapies that may support immune health and recovery. One approach now gaining more attention is ultraviolet blood irradiation (UVBI), sometimes called the “cure that time forgot.” This therapy is being revisited as a way to strengthen the immune system, improve circulation, and assist the body in healing from chronic conditions. Among the range of functional treatments available, UVBI therapy stands out for its history, mechanisms, and potential applications in modern care.

Understanding Ultraviolet Blood Irradiation Therapy

Ultraviolet blood irradiation treatment is a procedure that exposes a small amount of blood to controlled ultraviolet light before it is returned to the body. This concept dates back to the 1940s and 1950s, when it was extensively used in the treatment of infections. Research then noted its benefits against bacterial infection, septicemia following ultraviolet blood irradiation, and other infectious diseases.

The original Knott technique of ultraviolet blood irradiation was the best-known procedure in the treatment of infections at that time. It involved withdrawing autologous blood, exposing the blood to specific ultraviolet light, and then reinfusing the treated blood. Though interest slowed with the rise of the antibiotic, the therapy never disappeared entirely and is now being studied again.

How UVBI Therapy Works

The process of UVBI or UBI therapy uses certain wavelengths of UV light to interact with blood cells. When blood from the body is exposed to UV, several changes occur:

White blood cell activity may increase, helping to fight infection.
The properties of red blood cells can improve oxygen delivery.
Immune-modulating therapy effects can strengthen the immune response.

Some research also suggests that UVBI promotes the release of cytokines, which regulate the capacity of the blood to fight illness. The irradiation of blood in man has been shown to influence both red blood cells and immune system activity, supporting natural healing.

UVBI’s Role in Circulation and Healing

Another advantage of UV blood exposure is its effect on circulation. Studies indicate that UV irradiation of blood may stimulate nitric oxide release, helping relax blood vessels. This increases oxygen delivery and supports recovery from conditions like chronic fatigue or the treatment of thrombophlebitis.

Enhanced circulation also allows the body to heal more efficiently after illness or surgery. Some phase II clinical trial findings suggest potential benefits in energy levels and tissue repair.

UVBI, Ozone Therapy, and IV Therapy

In functional medicine, UVBI therapy is often discussed alongside ozone therapy and IV therapy. All three are forms of IV treatment that expose blood samples to agents or light for therapeutic effect. While ozone can help combat infection, ultraviolet irradiation of blood uses UV radiation to trigger immune responses.

Some clinics combine UBI therapy with ozone therapy as part of an immune-modulating therapy approach. The blood volume needs and amount of blood treated are carefully measured to ensure safety.

Clinical History and Research

The efficacy of ultraviolet blood irradiation was well documented in the 1940s and 1950s, when UBI was used to treat septicemia and other conditions. Historical reports describe Staphylococcus aureus septicemia following ultraviolet blood irradiation, improving under treatment. Although the Food and Drug Administration did not move forward with standard approval, the therapy continued in certain countries.

Today, the use of UBI to treat conditions like hepatitis C or autoimmune disorders is being studied again. Researchers discuss the potential of UBI as an alternative approach, especially in cases where UBI to treat septicemia cannot be managed with drugs alone.

Patient Experiences with UVBI or UBI

Many patients who have tried UVBI or UBI describe better energy, fewer infections, and faster recovery. Reports often mention benefits for chronic fatigue and infectious diseases. While this is still considered a therapy used under functional medicine rather than conventional care, anecdotal reports highlight positive changes after irradiated blood is reinfused.

The countries are where UBI remains an option mainly in integrative practices, but the renewed discussion of the technique of ultraviolet blood irradiation is helping bring awareness back.

Reviving UVBI as an Immune-Supportive Therapy

The renewed interest in ultraviolet irradiation of blood shows how past therapies can find a place in modern integrative care. By influencing white blood cell activity, improving circulation, and supporting natural healing, UVBI therapy offers potential as an immune-modulating therapy for patients with infection, inflammation, or chronic conditions.

At 417 Integrative Medicine, UVBI is offered as part of a personalized care plan that may also include IV therapy and ozone therapy. If you’re looking for safe, research-based options to strengthen your health, contact us today to learn more about UVBI — the “cure that time forgot” — and how it can support your journey to wellness.

417 Integrative Medicine
1335 E Republic Rd D, Springfield, MO 65804
(417) 363-3900
https://www.417integrativemedicine.com/

When to Recommend Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy for Your Patients

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is a medical therapy that involves breathing pure oxygen inside a special pressurized chamber. This treatment increases the amount of oxygen in the blood, which helps the body repair injured tissues, fight infection, and improve wound healing. But when should you recommend it?

At 417 Integrative Medicine, HBOT is part of a patient-centered care model designed to support recovery in complex conditions. This guide explains when hyperbaric oxygen therapy may be the right choice for your patients, the types of cases it supports, and what factors to consider before making a referral.

Understanding Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is a type of treatment that takes place in a hyperbaric chamber, where the air pressure is two or three times higher than normal air pressure. In this hyperbaric environment, patients receive concentrations of oxygen that are much higher than normal air pressure allows.

There are two kinds of HBOT chambers:

Monoplace chamber: for one patient at a time.
Multiplace chamber: for two or more people; oxygen is given through a mask or hood.

This increased pressure allows extra oxygen to dissolve into the blood. That oxygen helps white blood cells fight bacteria, reduces swelling, and supports the growth of new blood vessels. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy increases oxygen delivery to tissues that are starved of it, making it especially useful in wound care and other cases where circulation is limited.

Conditions Where HBOT May Be Recommended

As a healthcare provider, you should use hyperbaric oxygen therapy only for certain conditions. The Undersea and Hyperbaric Medical Society (UHMS) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) both support its use in specific cases.

You may consider HBOT as part of the treatment plan when your patient has:

1. Decompression sickness

Common in divers, this condition occurs when nitrogen bubbles form in the bloodstream. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy treats decompression sickness by helping dissolve these bubbles and reducing symptoms.

2. Carbon monoxide poisoning

In cases of high exposure, especially with low blood oxygen levels, breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized chamber helps flush out carbon monoxide faster and restore oxygen to the brain.

3. Radiation injuries

Hyperbaric treatment supports the healing of tissues damaged during radiation therapy, especially in the head, neck, or pelvic areas.

4. Chronic or non-healing wounds

This includes chronic wounds from diabetes, poor circulation, or infection. HBOT may be used in addition to standard wound care to promote oxygen flow and support tissue repair.

5. Skin grafts or flaps at risk

When tissue grafts show signs of failure due to poor oxygen supply, oxygen treatment in a hyperbaric oxygen therapy chamber can improve survival.

6. Infections like gas gangrene or necrotizing fasciitis

HBOT is also used to treat serious infections by boosting oxygen to the affected area and helping the body fight bacteria.

7. Certain brain injuries

For select cases of traumatic brain injury, HBOT could support recovery when used under guidance from a specialist.

Clinical Settings and Program Types

You can find hyperbaric oxygen therapy in hospitals, hyperbaric medicine programs, or specialty wound care centers. These programs often include a specially trained team that manages care safely and effectively.

Each treatment session usually lasts 1.5 to 2 hours. Patients may require multiple sessions based on their condition and response.

It’s important to ensure that the facility uses certified HBOT chambers, whether monoplace or multiplace, and follows safety standards from the Undersea and Hyperbaric Medical Society.

Safety and Side Effects

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is well studied and considered safe and effective when used correctly. However, some side effects include:

Ear pain or middle ear injuries due to changes in pressure in the chamber
Fatigue or mild discomfort
Temporary vision changes
Rare cases of oxygen poisoning may occur if sessions are too long

Patients with lung disease, fever, or other serious conditions may be at increased risk of complications, so always assess suitability before referral.

When Therapy Helps, and When It Doesn’t

While therapy helps many patients, it’s not for everyone. HBOT must be used along with other treatments, it’s rarely enough on its own. For example, therapy alone won’t heal a wound without proper cleaning, infection control, and pressure relief.

Also, HBOT isn’t proven for every condition. Some clinics may advertise it for off-label uses like anti-aging or sports recovery, but you should focus only on conditions approved by the UHMS or supported by clinical research.

Know the Right Time

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy must be used with care, but when applied correctly, it can support recovery in complex cases. From chronic wounds to carbon monoxide poisoning, HBOT plays an important role in patient care. Its ability to deliver oxygen in the blood at times higher than normal air offers a unique tool in your clinical decision-making.

At 417 Integrative Medicine, our team provides safe and personalized HBOT as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. We use certified hyperbaric chambers, follow evidence-based protocols, and care for each patient with close medical supervision.

If you believe your patient could benefit from hyperbaric oxygen therapy, contact us to learn more or book an appointment. We’re here to support healing, one breath at a time.