Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) has gained popularity among holistic-leaning celebrities like Mayim Bialik, LeAnn Rimes, and LeBron James, who use it to address various health issues such as inflammation, anxiety, and swelling. The therapy involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized chamber, allowing the body to absorb more oxygen than usual, which supports healing and regeneration.

While the FDA regulates HBOT for specific medical conditions like decompression sickness and burns, it is also used off-label for a variety of other ailments, such as concussions, long COVID, stroke recovery, and fibromyalgia. However, widespread adoption is hindered by the lack of financial backing and the slow pace of research and regulatory approval. Some experts believe that patient demand and accumulating evidence could eventually drive wider acceptance, as seen in Israel, where HBOT is covered for military personnel with PTSD and brain injuries.

There is also growing interest in at-home HBOT chambers, although these typically use pressurized regular air rather than pure oxygen. While these “mild hyperbarics” are not FDA-approved and lack proper safety standards, some believe they offer health benefits. However, experts like Dr. Shai Efrati warn that these chambers may not be effective and could pose safety risks.

The scientific community remains divided on the effectiveness of mild hyperbarics. Some small studies suggest potential benefits, but most research supports the use of pure-oxygen HBOT at higher pressures for treating various health conditions. Efrati emphasizes that HBOT should only be administered under professional supervision to ensure safety and optimal results.

Personally, I am a fan of anything that is proven to be harmless and helps you feel better.

By Pete Yurek, BSc.Phm.