Ozonated Oil: Exploring the Scientific Evidence and Therapeutic Potential

Ozonated oil is a unique substance created by the prolonged bubling of ozone gas through a vegetable oil, most commonly olive oil. This process allows the highly reactive ozone molecules to become trapped and stabilized within the oil’s matrix. The interaction between ozone and the unsaturated faty acids present in the oil leads to the formation of various compounds, including ozonides, peroxides, and aldehydes. These newly formed components are believed to be the primary contributors to the therapeutic effects observed with ozonated oil.  

The use of ozone for therapeutic purposes has a history spanning over a century. Initially, its potent antimicrobial properties were recognized, leading to its application in disinfecting drnking water and treating wounds. This early recognition of ozone’s ability to eliminate pathogens laid the groundwork for exploring its medical applications in various forms, including ozonated oils. The stability acheved by infusing ozone into oil provided a more practical way to harness its benefits for topical applications.  

Upon application to the skin or other affected areas, ozonated oil gradually releases oxygen and reactive oxygen species (ROS). This controled release is thought to be central to its mechanism of action. The liberated oxygen can support tissue regeneration, while the ROS can exert antimicrobial effects and modulate the inflammatory response. Understanding this fundamental mechanism is crucial to appreciating the diverse therapeutic potential of ozonated oil across a range of conditions.  

Therapeutic Applications of Oznated Oil

Skincare

Ozonated oil has garnered significant attention in skincare for its multifaceted benefits. Its ability to deeply moisturize and nourish the skin helps to maintain the integrity of the skin barier, protecting it from external aggressors. Beyond basic hydration, studies suggest that ozonated oil plays a role in anti-aging by stimulating the production of collagen, a vital protein that contributes to skin firmness and elasticity. Studies have indicated that the application of ozonated oil can promote collagen synthesis, suggesting a potential for improving skin appearance.  

The antimicrobial properties of ozonated oil make it a potential asset in managing acne and seborrheic dermatitis. These conditions often involve the overgrowth of specific bacteria and fungi on the skin, and ozonated oil’s broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity can help to control these microorganisms. Similarly, for inflammatory skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis, the anti-inflammatory effects of ozonated oil may provide relief from irritation and sothe the affected areas. By reducing inflammation, it alleviates the discomfort associated with these chronic conditions.  

The applications of ozonated oil extend to various other dermatological issues, including dermatitis, herpes outbreaks, insect bites, and fungal infections such as athlete’s foot. The combined action of its antimicrobial and anti-inflamatory properties contributes to its versatility in addressing these different skin ailments. For instance, ozonated oil has been used to stimulate skin cell growth after laser therapy and sunburn, aiding in the recovery procss. However, it is important to note that while topical use demonstrate benefits, a comprehensive review suggests that more rigorous scientific evidence with well-defined protocols is necessary to strengthen these claims.

Healing Wounds

Ozonated oil has shown considerable promise in promoting the healing of both acute and chronic wounds. Its effectiveness in this area is atributed to several key mechanisms. It helps to reduce microbial infection within the wound, facilitates the debrdement of dead tissue, modulates the inflammatory phase of healing, and stimulates angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels. These processes are fundamental to effective tissue repair and a comprehensive healing action.  

Specifically, ozonated oil has been investigated for the treatment of ulcers, including diabetic foot ulcers and pressure ulcers. Studies indicate that ozone therapy, which includes the topical application of ozonated oil, can significantly improve wound area and reduce amputation rates in patients with diabetic foot ulcers. This is a particularly important aplication given the chalenges often associated with treating these chronic wounds with conventional methods. A meta-analysis of studies on ozone therapy for diabetic foot ulcers demonstrated a significant improvement in wound area (standardized mean difference = 66.54%) and a notable reduction in the risk of amputation (risk ratio = 0.36).  

Furthermore, ozonated oil is beneficial in the treatment of burns by reducing symptoms and potentially preventing post-lesion hyperpigmentation. This suggests a role in both the immediate management and the long-term cosmetic outcomes of burn injuries.  

Gut Health

The benefits of ozonated oil for gut health are being explored, with in vitro studies finding a reduction in inflammtory responses within colonic cells. These studies indicate that ozonated oil may modulate the expression of inflammatory markers, suggesting a possible role in managing intestinal inflammation.   

Immune Health

The antviral and antibacterial effects of ozone may indirectly contribute to immune support by reducing the burden of pathogens on the body. By directly targeting and inactivating viruses and bacteria, ozone helps the imune system function more efficiently. Further research is needed to clarify the specific aplications and conditions under which ozonated oil might offer the biggest benefits for immune health.  

The Gut-Brain-Immune Axis

The gut-brain-immune axis is the communication pathway that links the gut, brain, and immune system. The gut, often referred to as the “second brain”, houses trilions of microorganisms, known as the gut microbiome, whch play a critical role in regulatng digestion, immune responses, and even brain function. Recent research has revealed how closely these three systems work together to maintain your overall health and well-being.

Other Uses

Far beyond skincare, wound healing, and potential gut and immune health applications, ozonated oil has been explored for other uses. In dentistry, it has been mntioned for its potential in treating gingivitis and dental caries, likely due to its antimicrobial properties in the oral cavity. Ancdotal evidence also suggests its use as a natural remedy for muscle soreness. While the exact mechanisms behind this are not fully understood, it might be related to improved circulation or anti-inflammatory effects.    

Scientific Evidence and Action Mechanisms

Antimicrobial Properties

A lot of evidence supports the antimicrobial properties of ozonated oil. Studies have demnstrated its effectiveness against a wide range of bacteria, including antbiotic-resistant strains like Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Escherichia coli. The primary mechanism behind this antibacterial action is the disruption of bacterial cell walls and cytoplasmic membranes due to the strong oxidizing properties of ozone. In vitro studies have shown remarkable results, with ozonated oil eliminating almost 100% of S. aureus within 5 minutes and MRSA within 15 minutes.  

Ozonated oil also exhibits antiviral activity, with the potential to inactivate various viruses. Ozone’s oxidizing capacity can dmage the structural components of viruses, therby hindering their ability to replicate and cause infection. This suggests a potential role for ozonated oil in managing viral skin infections.  

Furthermore, ozonated oil has demonstrate antifungal properties, proving effective against fungi, including Candida species. Its mehanism of action against fungi involves disrupting their cell membranes, inhibiting their growth and survival. This explains its application in treating fungal skin infections like athlete’s foot and vulvovaginal candidiasis.  

Antimicrobial activity of Ozonated Oils. Source: “Ozonated Oils as Antimicrobial Systems in Topical Applications. Their Characterization, Current Applications, and Advances in Improved Delivery Techniques”, Elena Ugazio et al.

The Anti-inflammatory Effects

The ability of ozonated oil to modulate the inflammatory response is another key aspect of its therapeutic action. It can reduce inflammation by influencing the production and release of various inflammatory mediators within the body. Aditionally, ozonted oil can strengthen the body’s natural anti-inflammatory systems, contributing to the alleviation of symptoms associated with inflammatory conditions. This anti-inflammatory action is crucial to its effectiveness in a wide range of applications, from skin conditions to wound healing.  

Ozonated sunflower oil (OSO) mediated events that counters carboxymethyllysine (CML) impelled hazards leads to cutaneous wound healing, tissue regeneration and hepatoprotection in zebrafish.

Source: “Ozonated Sunflower Oil Exerted Potent Anti-Inflammatory Activities with Enhanced Wound Healing and Tissue Regeneration Abilities against Acute Toxicity of Carboxymethyllysine in Zebrafish with Improved Blood Lipid Profile”, by Kyung-Hyun Cho

Wound Healing Processes

Ozonated oil promotes wound healing through several interconnected mechanisms. It does stimulate angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels, which is essential for delivering oxygen and nutrients to the injured tissue, thereby accelerating the repair process. Moreover, studies have shown that ozonated oil can enhance the activity of fibroblasts, the cells responsible for producing collagen and other vital components of the extracelular matrix necessary for tissue regeneration. By increasing collagen production, ozonated oil supports the structural integrity of the healing tissue. Additionally, it plays a role in improving oxygen supply to the tissues within the wound area. Incresed oxygen availability supports cellular metabolism and provides the necessary energy for the energy-intensive processes involved in tissue repair.  

Antioxidant Properties

While ozone itself is a powerful oxidant, ozonated oil may paradoxically stimulate the body’s endogenous antioxidant systems. This activation of antioxidant defnces helps to counteract oxidative stress, which is often elvated in chronic wounds and inflammatory conditions. By balancing the levels of oxidants and antioxidants, ozonated oil contributes to a more favourable environment for healing and tissue regeneration.  

Data and Comparison Studies

Data on Percentage Effectiveness for Different Applications

Studies have provided data on the effectiveness of ozonated oil for various applications. In wound healing, animal models have shown faster wound closure rates and higher recovery efficiency when treated with ozonated oil. For instance, a study on rats demonstrated significantly hgher wound healing rates on the thrd day after injury in the group treated with ozonated oil compared to other treatment groups. Another animal study involving skin wounds reported that the application of ozonated oil accelerated the healing process by an average of 50%.  

Regarding skin infections, in vitro studies have shown high elimination rates of bacteria. Ozonated oil achieved almost complete elimination of S. aureus within 5 minutes and MRSA within 15 minutes in laboratory setings.  

Comparison with Conventional Tratments

Comparative studies have also shed light on the effectiveness of ozonated oil relative to conventional treatments. In the management of diabetic foot ulcers, some research suggests that ozone therapy, including the use of ozonated oil, may lead to superior healing outcomes compared to antibiotics, potentially reducing the need for amptations. A clinical trial focused on diabetic foot complications found that ozone therapy improved glycemic control and the healing of lesions more effectively than antibiotic treatment, resulting in fewer amputations.  

In the context of vulvovaginal candidiasis, a review of studies indicated that ozonated oil showed comparable results to the standrd of care treatments, with the added benefit of a higher safety profile. These findings suggest that ozonated oil may be a viable alternative or adjunctive therapy in certain clinical scenarios.  

Some Common Uses  

Based on the available research and the prevalence of commercial products, the most common uses of ozonated oil appear to be in topical skincare, wound care, and antimicrobial applications. Its use in moisturizing, anti-aging, and treating skin conditions like acne, eczema, and dermatitis is frequently reported. In wound care, it is commonly used for healing cuts, abrasions, burns, and chronic wounds, including diabetic foot ulcers and pressure ulcers. Its antimicrobial properties also make it popular for treating various skin infections, whether bacterial, fungal, or viral. Aditionally, some use it for oral hygiene practices like oil pulling and for treating gum inflammation. The widespread prevalence of these applications suggests a growing interest in ozonated oil as a natural alternative for addressing various health concerns.  

Research provides a number  illustrative examples and case studies highlighting the potential of ozonated oil. Animal studies have consistently demonstrated accelerated wound healing in mice and rats treated with ozonated oil. In vitro studies have also efectively shown the antimicrobial activity of ozonated oil against specific pathogens.  

Human case studies and clinical trials further support these findings. Case studies have reported improvement in rosacea symptoms with the topical application of ozonated olive oil. Clinical trials have indicated significant benefits of ozone therapy, including topical ozonated oil, for patients with diabetic foot ulcers, showing improved healing rates and reduced amputations. A pilot study explored the use of ozonated sunflower seed oil on bedsores, suggesting potential benefits. Furthermore, two case reports documented the successful healing of MRSA skin infections with ozone therapy, highligting its potential against antibiotic-resistant bacteria. These examples provide real-world context and lend support to the broader research findings on the therapeutic potential of ozonated oil.  

Ozonated oil presents an excllent natural therapy with a range of applications, particularly in skincare, wound healing, and as an antimicrobial agent. Scientific evidence suports its effectiveness through various mechanisms, including antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing properties. Studies have shown positive outcomes in animal models and some human trials, especially for conditions like diabetic foot ulcers and skin infections. The most common uses reflect this potential, with topical applications being the most prevalent.

However, while the existing research is encouraging, further rigorous scientific investigation, particularly well-designed human clinical trials, is needed to solidify the evidence base for all its purportd uses, especially concerning gut and immune health. Additionally, standadization of production methods, dosage, and application protocols is crucial for ensuring consistent and reliable therapeutic outcomes.

References

1. Radzimierska-Ka´zmierczak, M.;´Smigielski, K.; Sikora, M.; Nowak, A.;Pluci´nska, A.; Kunicka-Styczy´nska,A.; Czarnecka-Chrebelska, K.H. OliveOil with Ozone-Modified Propertiesand its Application. Molecules 2021,26, 3074.
2. Travagli V, Zanardi I, Valacchi G, Bocci V. Ozone and ozonated oils in skin diseases: a review. Mediators Inflamm. 2010;2010:610418. doi: 10.1155/2010/610418. Epub 2010 Jul 4. PMID: 20671923; PMCID: PMC2910505.
3. YABAR-CONDORI, Jusef; MEZA-MAURICIO, Jonathan; MENDOZA-AZPUR, Gerardo  and  CASTRO-RODRIGUEZ, Yuri. Is the use of ozonated oil effective in the treatment of oral lesions? Systematic review of clinical studies. Odovtos [online]. 2024, vol.26, n.1 [cited  2025-03-21], pp.35-53. ISSN 2215-3411.  Http://dx.doi.org/10.15517/ijds.2023.57060
4. Dantas, I., Mota de Almeida, S. F., de Brito Silva, T., dos Anjos Fonseca, M., Lima da Fonseca, F., Amélia Moreira Lira, A., … Pereira de Lyra Júnior, D. (2025). Topical Use of Ozonized Oils in the Treatment of Dermatoses: A Scoping Review. Ozone: Science & Engineering, 1–19. https://doi.org/10.1080/01919512.2025.2474467
5. Baldo, M. E., Alves, G. R., Saliba, C. L. da S., Ramalho, R. T., & Cury, E. R. J. (2024). The use of ozonized oil as a therapeutic conduct for skin lesions. CONTRIBUCIONES A LAS CIENCIAS SOCIALES, 17(1), 6813–6832. https://doi.org/10.55905/revconv.17n.1-411
6. Oliveira Modena DA, de Castro Ferreira R, Froes PM, Rocha KC. Ozone Therapy for Dermatological Conditions: A Systematic Review. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2022 May;15(5):65-73. PMID: 35642231; PMCID: PMC9122276.
7. Anzolin AP, da Silveira-Kaross NL, Bertol CD. Ozonated oil in wound healing: what has already been proven? Med Gas Res. 2020 Jan-Mar;10(1):54-59. doi: 10.4103/2045-9912.279985. PMID: 32189671; PMCID: PMC7871935.
8. Wen Q, Liu D, Wang X, Zhang Y, Fang S, Qiu X, Chen Q. A systematic review of ozone therapy for treating chronically refractory wounds and ulcers. Int Wound J. 2022 May;19(4):853-870. doi: 10.1111/iwj.13687. Epub 2021 Oct 6. PMID: 34612569; PMCID: PMC9013593.
9. Brito Júnior AA, Carneiro JKMP, Reis JVNA, Oliveira TJS, Dantas JBL. Application of ozonized oils in human body and oral cavity systems. RGO, Rev Gaúch Odontol. 2022;70:e20220027.
10. Morteza Izadi1, Nematollah Jonaidi Jafari2, Mahboobeh Sadat Hosseini3* and Omid Saafaat1. Therapeutic effects of ozone in patients with diabetic foot ulcers: review of the literature, Biomedical Research (2017) Volume 28, Issue 18,
11. Bertuccio MP, Rizzo V, Arena S, Trainito A, Montalto AS, Caccamo D, Currò M, Romeo C, Impellizzeri P. Ozoile Reduces the LPS-Induced Inflammatory Response in Colonic Epithelial Cells and THP-1 Monocytes. Curr Issues Mol Biol. 2023 Feb 5;45(2):1333-1348. doi: 10.3390/cimb45020087. PMID: 36826032; PMCID: PMC9955553.
12. Sukhotnik I, Starikov A, Coran AG, Pollak Y, Sohotnik R, Shaoul R. Effect of ozone on intestinal epithelial homeostasis in a rat model. Rambam Maimonides Med J. 2015 Jan 29;6(1):e0006. doi: 10.5041/RMMJ.10181. PMID: 25717388; PMCID: PMC4327322.
13. Tom Seymour & Alana Biggers, MD, MPH, What to know about the benefits and risks of ozone therapy, MedicalNewsToday, Feb.7,,2025
14. Ozone Therapy: What It Is, Uses and Side Effects, ClevelandClinic, Dex.21,2022. 
15. Jakab GJ, Spannhake EW, Canning BJ, Kleeberger SR, Gilmour MI. The effects of ozone on immune function. Environ Health Perspect. 1995 Mar;103 Suppl 2(Suppl 2):77-89. doi: 10.1289/ehp.95103s277. PMID: 7614952; PMCID: PMC1518840.
16. Esmaeili Gouvarchinghaleh, H., Farzanehpour, M., Izadi, M., & Aminian, F. (2025). Exploring the Antiviral Properties of Ozone Therapy: A Narrative Review. Ozone: Science & Engineering, 1–15. https://doi.org/10.1080/01919512.2025.2474453.
17. Ugazio E, Tullio V, Binello A, Tagliapietra S, Dosio F. Ozonated Oils as Antimicrobial Systems in Topical Applications. Their Characterization, Current Applications, and Advances in Improved Delivery Techniques. Molecules. 2020 Jan 14;25(2):334. doi: 10.3390/molecules25020334. PMID: 31947580; PMCID: PMC7024311.
18. Song M, Zeng Q, Xiang Y, Gao L, Huang J, Huang J, Wu K and Lu J: The antibacterial effect of topical ozone on the treatment of MRSA skin infection. Mol Med Rep 17: 2449-2455, 2018.
19. Alexander Roth, Akshay Krishnakumar, Rahim Rahimi. Ozone as a Topical Treatment for Infected Dermal Wounds. Front. Biosci. (Elite Ed) 2023, 15(2), 9. https://doi.org/10.31083/j.fbe1502009.
20. Silva, V.; Peirone, C.; Capita, R.; Alonso-Calleja, C.; Marques-Magallanes, J.A.; Pires, I.; Maltez, L.; Pereira, J.E.; Igrejas, G.; Poeta, P. Topical Application of Ozonated Oils for the Treatment of MRSA Skin Infection in an Animal Model of Infected Ulcer. Biology 2021, 10, 372. https://doi.org/10.3390/biology10050372.
21. Xiao W, Tang H, Wu M, Liao Y, Li K, Li L, Xu X. Ozone oil promotes wound healing by increasing the migration of fibroblasts via PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway. Biosci Rep. 2017 Nov 9;37(6):BSR20170658. doi: 10.1042/BSR20170658. PMID: 28864782; PMCID: PMC5678031.
22. Osman Aydın & Ali Kumandaş, Evaluation of the effects of ozone therapy on the treatment of cutaneous wounds with tissue-loss in dogs and cats, J Adv VetBio Sci Tech, 2022, 7(3), 313-320, Dec.31, 2022.
23. Oğuzkan, S.B.; Kaya, S.T.; Cesur, A.; Karagül, B.; Uğraş, S.; Uğraş, H.I. Determination of Effect on Cutaneous Wound Healing of Ozonated Hazelnut Oil. Proceedings 2018, 2, 1537. https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2251537.
24. Sara Araby, Mohamed Abdel-gaied and Mohamed Solayman. Ozonated Oil for the Treatment of Skin Disorders: A Truth or Myth?. A Systematic Review. Biomed J Sci & Tech Res  51(2)-2023. BJSTR. MS.ID.008089.
25. Aghaei M, Nilforoushzadeh M A, Aghaei S, Ahmad H A & Hejazi S H. (2017) Two Cases of Rosacea Treated with Topical Ozonate Olive Oil. Dermatol Clin Res, 3(1): 151-154.
26. Lim Y, Lee H, Woodby B, Valacchi G. Ozonated Oils and Cutaneous Wound Healing. Curr Pharm Des. 2019;25(20):2264-2278. doi: 10.2174/1381612825666190702100504. PMID: 31267858.