Last updated August 18, 2023
I remember the first time my naturopathic doctor Natasha pricked a needle into my arm. I was complaining of chronic fatigue and a myriad of other pesky health problems. She recommended that I try an alternative modality of treatment—IV infusion therapy.
My special blend is “Brain Booster.” This specially formulated drip consists of Methyl B12, B6 and Methyl Folate, which are beneficial for memory, focus and concentration.
Maybe it’s the power of suggestion or placebo, but within the next couple of days I felt remarkably less fatigued. So I went back a few more times and continued getting impressive results.
What is this wizardry? IV infusion therapy, a medical treatment that involves delivering nutrients (or high doses of vitamins and minerals) directly into a person’s bloodstream through an intravenous (IV) line. This type of therapy is offered in a variety of settings such as hospitals, clinics and even in the comfort of a patient’s home.
From dehydration and nutrient deficiencies, IV infusion therapy can be an effective and efficient way to deliver the vital substances the body needs to heal and function properly.
Should You Skip the Drip?
I sat down with Dr. Natasha Wolf, ND ( aka, my lovely naturopathic doctor at Vitalia Natural Medicine) to see what all the fuss is about. And to help explain my promising results.
Why do people get vitamin infusion therapy?
Dr. Wolf: Many patients like this approach to start feeling better faster. They notice improvement in energy, focus and concentration, and sleep.
Why do you recommend it to your patients?
Dr. Wolf: These vitamins get absorbed through the bloodstream and bypass the liver and digestive system. So for patients with digestive problems or IBS they get a much better absorption.
What is the difference between vitamin injections and vitamin infusion therapy?
Dr. Wolf: Nutritional vitamin injections are given as an intramuscular shot (typically in a large muscle or the arm or buttocks) or as intravenous therapy, which is an infusion or drip directly into the vein. I mainly focus on quick vitamin shots that can help patients get better faster with energy, sleep and their immune system.
Most people are aware of B12 vitamin shots from their doctor’s office. Naturopathic clinics are exapnding on this concept by using the most active type of B12, (methylcobalamin) as well as B complex, glutathione and vitamin D. These are sterile injectable vitamins administered by a doctor or naturopathic medical assistant.
Bespoke IV Infusion Therapy
I also reached out to Karina Stewart, founder of Kamalaya Koh Samui in Thailand. With a Master of Traditional Chinese Medicine from Yo San University in California and over 40 years of experience in Asian healing practices, Karina offers her insights on Kamalya’s IV infusion therapy.
What is IV infusion therapy?
Karina Stewart: IV infusion therapy involves the dripping of specially formulated infusions of vitamins, minerals and nutrients directly into the bloodstream at a controlled rate. A member of Kamalaya’s medical team connects the drip to the guest’s vein while the guest is sitting comfortably. The duration of the therapy depends on the guest’s physical state and condition. It typically requires a minimum of 60 minutes.
Why do people choose infusion therapy?
Karina Stewart: The main advantage of an IV drip is the speed of absorption with necessary elements for a faster recovery and healing. IV therapy bypasses the gastric system, so the body absorbs more nutrition without having to pass through the digestive system.
What are the benefits and possible risks?
Karina Stewart: The synergy between scientific and holistic approaches to well-being can lead to benefits that are truly transformative. From boosting brainpower, metabolism and energy levels to increasing immunity and promoting youthful skin, IV drip therapy provides rapid and long-lasting regeneration. IV infusion therapy at Kamalaya, much like the use of herbal formulas, supports each guest in their personal health goals and journey to lifelong wellness.
You can be sure that you will receive the highest quality drips formulated by our medical team. The procedure is delivered by expert nurses and supervised by our functional medicine doctor. All of which ensure minimal risks to health.
Good to Know
What are the typical results?
Karina Stewart: The results depend on various aspects, starting from the IV blend one chooses to the various health conditions and body state of a guest. For example, we offer six potent blends for defying aging, a metabolism boost which is great for weight management, a blend to revive and rejuvenate skin, an immunity boost, a liver cleanse and a special blend for faster recovery from sport exhaustion.
Depending on the chosen therapy, guests may feel the effects of the therapy immediately. In some cases, the effects may take more time to notice. The results are always dependent on the individual, their health condition at the time of receiving the treatment, as well as the individual formula given. The results may last for up to a few weeks after the completion of treatment.
What are the best sellers?
Karina Stewart: Our IV therapy formulations support the benefits of our popular wellness program. While each infusion can stand alone, the benefits are multiplied when used in combination with our holistic wellness programs. Some really popular infusions are metabolic and immune boosters.
The metabolic boost helps the body to metabolize carbohydrates, proteins and fats. This allows the energy stored in food to be used more efficiently, supporting healthy and balanced body weight. The B-complex vitamins in this infusion are vital in energy production. They help restore a feeling of deep vitality while supporting a healthy nervous system.
The immune-boosting blend enhances the body’s natural resilience and acts as a preventive intervention. This infusion reduces the duration of the severity of the illness and the time required for healing injuries and wounds by encouraging the production of white blood cells. It also acts as protection against infections and reduces acidity in the body.
Revitalize Body & Mind with IV Infusion Therapy
From hydrating and nourishing the body to delivering powerful high doses of vitamins and minerals, IV infusion therapy can be an efficient and effective way to support the body’s healing and recovery.
With the increasing availability of at-home IV drip therapy options and a rise of spa and resort offerings, this form of treatment is becoming more accessible to patients of all ages and health conditions.
Disclaimer: IV infusion therapy, when administered by a trained healthcare professional in a clean environment, is generally considered safe. However, like any medical procedure, there are potential risks such as infection and blood clots. These risks are minimized with proper care of the IV and close monitoring of the patient during treatment.
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