Oxygen cocktails are foamy drinks enriched with oxygen gas (O₂), often flavored with fruit juices or herbal extracts. Popular in some Eastern European countries, especially Russia, these drinks are promoted as a way to deliver extra oxygen to the body through the digestive system. Supporters claim benefits like increased energy, improved metabolism, and better skin. However, the scientific foundation behind these claims remains highly controversial.
How Oxygen Cocktails Are Made
Oxygen cocktails are typically prepared by mixing:
- Natural juice or herbal infusion as the base;
- A foaming agent (like licorice root extract or egg white) to stabilize the foam;
- A flow of pure oxygen bubbled through the mix via a special device.
The result is a thick, airy foam that can be eaten with a spoon. The idea is that the oxygen trapped in the foam is absorbed through the stomach lining and into the bloodstream.
Claimed Benefits
Proponents of oxygen cocktails claim they can:
- Improve oxygenation of tissues;
- Boost mental clarity and focus;
- Help with chronic fatigue and low energy;
- Support digestion and metabolism;
- Enhance skin tone and rejuvenation;
- Aid recovery from respiratory diseases.
These effects are mostly based on anecdotal evidence and older Soviet-era studies, which often lacked rigorous clinical standards. Some wellness centers and spas still include oxygen cocktails in wellness programs, especially for people recovering from stress or mild illness.
Scientific Concerns and Criticism
Mainstream medical research casts doubt on the effectiveness of oxygen cocktails. Here’s why:
- Oxygen absorption through the stomach is minimal; the gastrointestinal tract is not designed to transfer gases into the bloodstream efficiently.
- The human body already regulates oxygen levels through the lungs, not digestion.
- No large-scale, peer-reviewed studies confirm the health claims.
- For healthy individuals, there is no proven need for additional oxygen unless there’s a diagnosed deficiency.
Thus, many doctors view oxygen cocktails as a placebo — harmless for most people, but with no clear scientific benefit.
Are They Safe?
In general, oxygen cocktails are safe for most people if prepared hygienically and consumed in moderation. However:
- People with respiratory conditions or oxygen therapy prescriptions should consult a doctor before use.
- Individuals with egg allergies or concerns about food safety (if egg white is used) should verify the ingredients.
They should never be seen as a substitute for medical treatment or proper nutrition.
Glossary
- Oxygen (O₂): A gas essential for respiration and energy production in living organisms.
- Foaming agent: A substance that helps trap gas in liquid, forming foam.
- Placebo: A substance with no active effect, used in research or sometimes causing perceived benefits.
- Oxygenation: The process of adding oxygen to the body’s tissues.
