A Simple Guide to Ultraviolet Blood Irradiation (UVBI) for New Patients
Ultraviolet blood irradiation (UVBI) is a treatment where a small amount of blood is drawn, exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light, and returned to the body. Also called photoluminescence or ultraviolet irradiation of blood, it’s used to support the immune system by altering blood cells through UV exposure.
Once widely used in the 1940s and 1950s for bacterial infections and septicemia, UVBI lost attention with the rise of antibiotics. Today, it’s gaining interest again as an immune-modulating option. At 417 Integrative Medicine, UVBI is available as part of a natural approach to wellness and immune support.
How Does Ultraviolet Blood Irradiation (UVBI) Therapy Work?
UVBI works by withdrawing a small amount of blood, usually around 60 to 300 ml, and passing it through a device that exposes it to ultraviolet light, often ultraviolet C (UVC). This treated blood is then returned to the body. This process is part of the Knott technique of ultraviolet blood irradiation, a method developed to ensure the blood receives the proper wavelength of UV light.
Even though only a small amount of the patient’s blood is treated, this exposure is believed to trigger a full-body immune response. The treated blood is thought to stimulate the rest of the immune system to recognize and fight off infection more effectively. Some also report improvement in the properties of red blood cells and white blood cells after UV exposure.
UVBI Therapy vs. IV Therapy
While IV therapy is common for delivering fluids, nutrients, or medications directly into the bloodstream, UVBI uses the IV line differently. In ultraviolet blood irradiation therapy, the IV is used to draw and reintroduce human blood that has been exposed to UV light. The focus here is not on adding substances but on changing how the blood works once irradiated.
The difference lies in the process. IV therapy simply supports the body with hydration or vitamins, but UVBI actively works to stimulate the immune system by applying ultraviolet radiation to the blood. This method of treatment is unique and falls under light-based immune-modulating therapy.
What Conditions Is UVBI Used For?
UVBI has been used to treat many conditions, especially before antibiotics became widely available. It was commonly applied to infectious disease cases such as Staphylococcus aureus septicemia following ultraviolet blood irradiation, as well as hepatitis C and chronic fatigue. Some studies have also explored its role in the treatment of thrombophlebitis and graft-versus-host disease.
Even though the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not officially approved it for these uses, UVBI is still offered in wellness clinics. The efficacy of ultraviolet blood irradiation in these areas is still being studied. However, it remains of interest to patients and providers seeking alternative therapies for immune support.
How UVBI Affects Blood Cells
When blood is exposed to UV light, it goes through chemical and biological changes. The irradiation of blood may improve how white blood cells respond to harmful bacteria or viruses. At the same time, it may also increase the oxygen-carrying ability of red blood cells, improving overall blood function.
This procedure doesn’t just clean the blood; it changes how it behaves. The capacity of the blood to deal with infections may improve. Researchers are still studying how the treated blood influences the body after it’s returned. The goal is to strengthen the body’s own defense system without using drugs.
UVBI and Ozone Therapy
Some clinics combine ozone therapy with UVBI. Ozone, made up of three oxygen atoms, is known for its antimicrobial properties. When used alongside UV light, it may boost the effects of UVBI treatment by helping destroy bacterial infections and viruses before the blood is reintroduced.
Combining ozone and UV light creates a double effect; ozone may weaken pathogens, and UV light can help the immune system respond more effectively. This approach is being tested in phase II clinical trials and is sometimes recommended for patients with chronic infections or who are resistant to antibiotic treatment.
Safety and FDA Status
UVBI is considered safe when handled by trained professionals. The amount of blood treated is small, and the exposure time is carefully controlled. However, the FDA has not approved UVBI for most uses in the U.S. As a result, it is mostly available in clinics focused on integrative medicine or alternative care.
The procedure must be done with sterile equipment and by providers who understand the risks and benefits. Because UV radiation can be harmful in large doses, it’s important that the blood samples are exposed under strict conditions. So far, no major side effects have been widely reported when the treatment is done properly.
Why Is It Called “The Cure That Time Forgot”?
UVBI was extensively used in the 1940s before antibiotics were widely available. Doctors used it for various infections, and early reports showed strong results in many cases. Once antibiotics entered the market, UVBI was pushed aside, even though it had shown value. That’s why people now call it “the cure that time forgot.”
However, the use of UBI to treat certain conditions never fully stopped. In some countries, UVBI continues to be part of standard care in managing infections. In Western countries, it is slowly being reconsidered as people look for new options to support the immune system without heavy drug use.
Things to Consider Before Trying UVBI
Before trying UVBI therapy, it’s important to talk to a trusted health provider. Make sure they understand both conventional and alternative treatments. Ask questions about how they perform the procedure and how they handle the blood from the body. It’s important that the clinic follows medical standards for safety.
Also, understand that the total blood volume isn’t treated—just a small amount of blood is drawn, treated, and returned. This is usually enough to trigger a full immune response. If you are looking for support for hepatitis C, chronic fatigue, or infectious disease, UVBI may be part of a larger care plan.
UBI as an Alternative Approach
UVBI, or UBI therapy, has been around for decades. It was once a common part of infection care and is now being explored again for its potential to support the immune system. As light-based treatments gain more attention, UVBI is becoming a natural option for those interested in immune-modulating therapy.
While it’s not a replacement for antibiotics in serious cases, UVBI can still support recovery and overall immune health. At 417 Integrative Medicine, UVBI is offered as part of a holistic approach to care. Book an appointment today to see if this therapy is right for you.
417 Integrative Medicine
1335 E Republic Rd D, Springfield, MO 65804
(417) 363-3900
https://www.417integrativemedicine.com/