Ultraviolet Blood Irradiation—UVBI for short—may sound futuristic, but this therapy has roots that stretch back nearly a century. Once used to curb infections before modern antibiotics, UVBI is enjoying a renaissance in integrative medicine for its ability to stimulate the immune system, dampen inflammation, and help the body neutralize microbes—all with a simple, in-office procedure.
Below, we explain how UVBI works, who can benefit, and why Reno Integrative is excited to have this innovative therapy in our wellness and non-toxic cancer-support toolbox.
What Exactly Is UVBI?
During a UVBI session:
- A small amount of your blood (generally 300-330 mL) is drawn into a sterile, closed IV circuit.
- The blood passes through a quartz chamber where it’s exposed to different frequencies of ultraviolet (UV) light.
- The blood collects into a bag where ozone (O3) is infused into it for 4 minutes.
- The freshly ozonated blood passes through the UV light once more and is then returned to your body through the same IV line.
The entire visit takes about 45-60 minutes, is virtually painless, and requires no downtime.
How Does Shining Light on Blood Help?
- Immune Signaling Boost
UV exposure triggers white blood cells to release cytokines—chemical messengers that rally and coordinate immune defense. - Anti-Microbial Action
Ultraviolet light can inactivate bacteria, viruses, and fungi circulating in the sample. Once reinfused, that “educated” blood helps the immune system target similar pathogens. - Inflammation Modulation
Studies show UVBI may reduce pro-inflammatory markers, easing symptoms in autoimmune conditions and chronic pain syndromes. - Improved Oxygen Delivery
Light-induced changes in blood viscosity can enhance tissue oxygenation, leading many patients to report increased energy and quicker recovery after illness or intense exercise.
Why Use Ozone?
- Ozone (O3) amplifies the effectiveness of this therapy – When this meets the patient’s blood, it immediately splits to form O2 and a single oxygen molecule. These oxygen molecules are the free radicals that kill the cancer cells because cancer cells lack the ability to create antioxidants.
- Harmless to normal cells – Normal cells have the ability to produce antioxidants.
- Oxidative stress – Ozone in the blood creates oxidative stress causing the body to respond and begin to heal.
- Improved circulation and oxygenation – Ozone helps oxygenate the tissues to reduce inflammation and tissue pain, as well as increase metabolism of cholesterol, uric acid and
glucose.
Potential Benefits & Conditions Addressed
Clinical Goal
Immune Enhancement
Anti-Inflammatory Support
Adjunctive Cancer Care
Athletic Recovery
General Wellness
Where UVBI May Help
Frequent colds, lingering viral infections, Lyme-related issues
Autoimmune flares (RA, lupus), fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue
Immune resilience, reduced treatment fatigue (always coordinated
with your oncology team)
Over-training fatigue, delayed-onset muscle soreness
Energy slump, brain fog, travel-related immune stress
Individual results vary; a medical consultation determines suitability and protocol length.
The UVBI Experience at Reno Integrative
Comprehensive Screening
We review your health history, medications, and recent labs to confirm UVBI is
appropriate.
Relaxing Procedure
Recline in a comfortable chair; many patients read or scroll on their phone. Staff monitor
you throughout.
Personalized Series
Most protocols start with weekly or bi-weekly sessions for 3–6 treatments, then taper to maintenance based on goals.
Combination Options
UVBI pairs well with IV vitamin drip therapy, or our non-toxic cancer-support programs for synergistic benefit.
Disclaimer: The information in this blog is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with a healthcare professional for personalized recommendations.
Safety & Side Effects
UVBI is generally well-tolerated. Mild warmth, brief light-headedness, or localized bruising at the IV site may occur; these effects usually resolve within hours. Contraindications include active anticoagulant use, uncontrolled hyperthyroidism, or certain photosensitive disorders—our clinicians screen for these during your intake.
Because UVBI bolsters immune signaling without introducing harsh chemicals, many
individuals undergoing conventional cancer treatment—or those choosing alternative
routes—seek it out to:
- Strengthen natural killer (NK) cell activity
- Reduce systemic inflammation that fuels tumor growth
- Combat fatigue and secondary infections
Our providers coordinate closely with oncologists to ensure UVBI timing aligns safely with chemotherapy, radiation, or surgical schedules.
Is UVBI Right for You?
If you’re battling recurrent infections, chronic fatigue, persistent inflammation, or you simply want a proactive immune tune-up, UVBI could be a valuable addition to your integrative plan.
Schedule a consultation with Reno Integrative to discuss personalized protocols, package pricing, and how UVBI may complement other therapies you’re pursuing—whether for wellness, weight loss, or cancer support.
