What is hydrogen therapy
Hydrogen therapy is the use of molecular hydrogen (H₂) as support for the body's biological balance. Hydrogen is the smallest and lightest molecule we know, and has physical properties that enable it to move quickly through cell membranes, tissues and biological barriers. Precisely these properties have made hydrogen interesting in biophysics, redox biology and mitochondrial function. In practice, hydrogen therapy is mainly used in two forms, hydrogen water and hydrogen inhalation, with the aim of increasing the availability of molecular hydrogen in a controlled and technologically defined way.
Hydrogen and redox balance – a basic principle
A central concept in the understanding of hydrogen therapy is redox balance. Redox balance describes the relationship between oxidative and reducing processes in the cells, and is crucial for normal cell function, signal transmission and energy production. Oxidative processes are necessary for immune response, adaptation and cell communication, but challenges can arise when this balance is shifted over time. Molecular hydrogen is described in the research literature as selective in the redox system, in that it appears to a greater extent to affect particularly reactive and burdensome oxygen compounds, while at the same time important physiological signal molecules are largely preserved.
How molecular hydrogen works at the cellular level
At the cellular level, molecular hydrogen can diffuse quickly into the mitochondria, the cells' energy-producing organelles. The mitochondria are both central to ATP production and to the regulation of the cell's redox status. A stable redox balance is essential for efficient energy turnover. Research has shown that hydrogen can affect mitochondrial function indirectly through redox regulation and by influencing signaling pathways linked to cellular protection and adaptation, without acting as a stimulating or inhibiting substance in the pharmacological sense.
Documented and investigated effects
The modern interest in molecular hydrogen gained momentum after studies that investigated connections between hydrogen and oxidative stress in preclinical models. Later, the field has developed with cell experiments, animal studies and smaller human studies where hydrogen has been investigated in relation to redox balance, mitochondrial function, inflammation-related signaling pathways and cellular stress response. Human studies are often small and short-term, and the endpoints are often biomarkers, function tests and self-reported well-being. The findings must therefore be interpreted soberly, but provide a biologically plausible basis for further interest and practical use within well-being and recovery.
Hydrogen water - daily and accessible use
Hydrogen water is ordinary drinking water that is enriched with dissolved molecular hydrogen, usually produced by electrolysis. The advantage of hydrogen water is that it can easily be incorporated into daily routines and used as part of normal hydration. The concentration of hydrogen is affected by technology, material selection, production time and storage conditions, and hydrogen diffuses out of water relatively quickly.
Hydrogen inhalation – more concentrated exposure
Hydrogen inhalation means that molecular hydrogen is supplied via the breathing air. This method provides quick access to the circulation via the lungs and is often used in more structured or professional contexts. Hydrogen inhalation gives a higher and more consistent exposure than hydrogen water alone and is often used in time-limited sessions.
Hydrogen water and hydrogen inhalation – complementary approaches
Hydrogen water and hydrogen inhalation are not competing methods, but complement each other. Hydrogen water is well suited for daily support of the redox balance, while hydrogen inhalation provides a more targeted and concentrated supply. The choice of method depends on needs, practical framework and desired level of use.
Practical use in everyday life
Hydrogen therapy is used by many in connection with general energy and well-being, especially during periods of increased physical or mental strain. Others use hydrogen as support for recovery after training or as part of routines aimed at stress balance and daily regeneration. Hydrogen therapy is also often combined with other technologies such as light therapy, PEMF or oxygen-related approaches.
Security and realistic expectations
Molecular hydrogen is colourless, odorless and naturally occurring in the body. When used according to the manufacturer's guidelines, hydrogen therapy is considered gentle and non-invasive. As with all health technology, correct use, quality equipment and realistic expectations are essential.
Summary
Hydrogen therapy is based on basic biophysical and biological principles where molecular hydrogen is used to support the body's redox balance and cellular regulatory mechanisms. Through the influence of redox systems, mitochondrial function and cell communication, hydrogen therapy has received increasing attention as a long-term tool for energy, recovery and well-being.
More reading
Hydrogen therapy is often used in combination with other technologies
Hydrogen therapy is often combined with other biophysical technologies such as light and electromagnetic fields, where the aim is to support the body's own regulatory mechanisms on several levels at the same time. Many choose to combine hydrogen with light-based approaches, and you can read more about this in the article Red light therapy and photobiomodulation (PBM) - how light affects cells and energy:
https://unovita.no/blogs/news/rodlysterapi-fotobiomodulasjon-pbm
Hydrogen water as part of daily hydration
For many, hydrogen water is the most accessible form of hydrogen therapy in everyday life. Hydrogen water can easily be included as part of regular hydration and used continuously over time, in contrast to more time-limited sessions. You will find an overview of available solutions here:
https://unovita.no/collections/hydrogenvann
Hydrogen inhalation – more concentrated and targeted use
Hydrogen inhalation provides a faster and more concentrated exposure of molecular hydrogen via the lungs and circulation. This form is often used in more structured contexts, both at home and in professional environments. For a more thorough review of technology, safety and practical use, you can read further here:
https://unovita.no/blogs/news/hydrogeninhalasjon
Hydrogen therapy as part of a broader holistic approach
Many see hydrogen therapy as one part of a larger whole, where several technologies are used to support energy, recovery and balance in the body. Electromagnetic technologies are another area that is often combined with hydrogen, and this will be elaborated in a separate technical article:
https://unovita.no/blogs/news/pemf-celler-energi
About Uno Vita's editorial staff
Uno Vita's specialist editorial team works to disseminate knowledge-based, sober and up-to-date information on health technology, biophysical principles and lifestyle-related measures. The content is based on available research, technical documentation, clinical experience and practical use, and is intended as general information for increased understanding and insight.
The articles are not intended to replace medical advice, diagnostics or treatment. The information should be seen as a supplement to one's own knowledge and dialogue with qualified healthcare personnel where relevant. Uno Vita AS follows current Norwegian and European regulations for communication about health, technology and well-being, and emphasizes realistic expectations, professional precision and transparency in all communication.
