Blog

MHBOT boosts the Immune System

Mild Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (mHBOT) boosts the body’s immune system through various mechanisms, all stemming from its ability to significantly increase oxygen delivery to cells and tissues. Here’s how it works:

Enhanced White Blood Cell Function:
- Increased Killing Power: White blood cells, such as neutrophils and macrophages, are the body’s frontline defenders against pathogens (bacteria, viruses, fungi). These cells require ample oxygen to effectively perform their functions, including phagocytosis (engulfing and destroying invaders) and producing reactive oxygen species (like hydrogen peroxide) which are crucial for killing microbes. mHBOT provides the oxygen needed for these processes to operate optimally, making immune cells more efficient and effective at identifying and neutralizing threats.
- Improved Mobility: Optimal oxygenation can improve the mobility of white blood cells, allowing them to more effectively migrate to sites of infection or injury.
Creation of an Oxygen-Rich Environment Hostile to Pathogens:
- Many harmful bacteria, particularly anaerobic bacteria, thrive in low-oxygen environments. By saturating tissues with high levels of oxygen, mHBOT creates an environment that is directly toxic or inhospitable to these anaerobic pathogens, helping to directly combat infections.
- Even some aerobic bacteria can be negatively affected by elevated oxygen levels.
Reduced Inflammation:
- As discussed previously, inflammation is a key part of the immune response, but chronic or excessive inflammation can suppress immune function and damage tissues.
- mHBOT helps to reduce inflammation by downregulating pro-inflammatory cytokines and reducing swelling, which in turn allows immune cells to function more effectively in a healthier tissue environment.
Stimulation of Stem Cell Production and Mobilization:
- mHBOT has been shown to stimulate the release and mobilization of stem cells from the bone marrow.
- These stem cells play a vital role in the repair and regeneration of damaged tissues throughout the body. A healthier, more regenerated body is inherently more robust and capable of mounting a stronger immune response. While not directly immune cells themselves, their role in tissue repair indirectly supports immune health by maintaining strong physical barriers against infection.
Enhanced Antioxidant Production:
- While high levels of oxygen can temporarily increase reactive oxygen species (ROS), mHBOT also triggers the body’s natural antioxidant defense systems. These antioxidants (like superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione) neutralize harmful free radicals that can damage cells, including immune cells.
- By reducing oxidative stress, mHBOT helps immune cells remain healthy and functional for longer, allowing them to sustain their protective activities.
Improved Circulation and Tissue Health:
- By reducing swelling and promoting angiogenesis (growth of new blood vessels), mHBOT improves blood flow to all tissues, including those that might have been poorly perfused.
- Healthy, well-oxygenated tissues are better able to act as barriers against infection and support the immune cells within them. When tissues are healthy, the immune system isn’t constantly trying to repair damage, allowing it to focus more on fighting actual threats.

In essence, mHBOT empowers the immune system by providing its cells with the optimal conditions (abundant oxygen, reduced inflammation, and a supportive environment) to function at their peak, leading to more effective defense against pathogens and faster recovery from illness and injury.

Ready to try it? Our private Contrast Therapy Room at Elements Float Wellness Centre is the perfect place to experience the benefits firsthand. Book your session today and take the plunge into wellness!