What is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy?
What is Mild Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (mHBOT)?
Mild Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (mHBOT) is a non-invasive and restorative wellness therapy that involves breathing concentrated oxygen inside a soft, pressurized chamber. Unlike traditional medical-grade hyperbaric chambers used in hospitals, mild HBOT uses lower pressure—typically between 1.3 and 1.5 ATA (atmospheres absolute)—and is designed for wellness, prevention, and recovery rather than emergency medical conditions.
The core principle behind mHBOT is simple yet powerful: by increasing both the pressure and oxygen levels around the body, more oxygen dissolves into the blood plasma. This enhanced oxygen saturation allows the body to deliver oxygen more effectively to tissues, organs, and cells, especially in areas with poor circulation or inflammation. Oxygen is essential for nearly every cellular function, and increasing its availability can significantly support the body’s natural healing processes.
How It Works
During a session, the individual enters a soft, inflatable chamber and reclines comfortably while breathing ambient or enriched oxygen through a mask or nasal cannula. As the chamber gently pressurizes, the air becomes denser, allowing more oxygen molecules to enter the lungs and bloodstream. This process results in increased oxygenation at a cellular level—even in tissues that are inflamed, damaged, or poorly perfused.
A typical session lasts between 60 to 90 minutes, and most people find it relaxing, often using the time to meditate, listen to music, or rest.
Key Benefits of Mild HBOT
Enhanced Cellular Repair: Oxygen supports tissue regeneration and cellular metabolism. mHBOT helps repair damage caused by inflammation, injury, or oxidative stress.
Reduced Inflammation: Many chronic health conditions are driven by inflammation. mHBOT can help downregulate inflammatory markers and improve immune balance.
Improved Circulation: By stimulating the formation of new blood vessels (angiogenesis), mild HBOT can improve circulation and oxygen delivery to hard-to-reach areas.
Neurological Support: Increased oxygen to the brain may enhance cognitive clarity, focus, memory, and mood. It's often used in protocols for brain fog, burnout, and neurodegenerative support.
Faster Recovery: Athletes and active individuals use mHBOT to speed up muscle and joint recovery after exercise or injury by improving oxygen supply and reducing lactic acid buildup.
Better Sleep & Energy: Many users report improved sleep quality and daytime energy after a series of sessions, likely due to reduced stress and enhanced mitochondrial function.
Safe and Accessible
One of the major advantages of mild HBOT is its excellent safety profile. Because the pressure used is significantly lower than in hospital-grade chambers, it is well-tolerated and suitable for a broad range of individuals, including those looking to enhance their wellness, support chronic condition management, or simply age more healthfully. Sessions are typically done without the need for medical supervision, though a consultation is often recommended to tailor the protocol to individual needs.
Conclusion
Mild Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy is a powerful yet gentle approach to improving oxygen delivery in the body. By enhancing the body’s natural healing capacity, reducing inflammation, and supporting mental and physical performance, mHBOT represents a valuable tool in modern wellness and longevity strategies.