IV Therapy—Myer’s IV
What is a Myers IV?
By Dr. Hayley Owens, ND
A Myers IV (intra-venous) is a combination of vitamins, minerals and amino acids injected directly into the blood stream for a quick and effective boost to the system, not attainable through oral supplementation. Dr. Myers invented it using a specific combination of nutrients, but I like to enhance the original recipe and also tailor it to your individual needs. I use them for stress recovery/adrenals, hormone balancing, injury and surgical recovery, fatigue, flu and cold prevention, skin brightening, detoxification and so much more.
Vitamin C - how can this help me?
Vitamin C is an essential nutrient our bodies require for proper immune function. Vitamin C encourages neutrophils to a site of infection and enhances the killing of microbes like viruses and bacteria. The nutrient also supports macrophages in cleaning up the removal of old white blood cells, while also protecting the surrounding tissue from free radical damage (ie. the anti-oxidant effect).
This same mechanism of free radical scavenging also prevents skin damage from UV rays and helps the formation of collagen in your skin and connective tissues. Therefore, it is helpful for healthier, youthful looking skin and for wound healing.
One of the highest concentration of Vitamin C in our bodies is found in the adrenal glands, the almond shaped glands on top of the kidneys, responsible for many things including cortisol, output in response to stress. Many of us experience chronic stress in these modern times, so I use IV therapy to support a stressed, “burned out” person who doesn't have the energy to make the diet and lifestyle changes that will benefit them in the long run. IV's can serve as the bridge to feeling more energy, so that they can begin to me choices that will serve them better.
Another body tissue with high concentration of Vitamin C is the brain. It is used to form neurotransmitters and studies have reported enhanced brain function.
Vitamin C is a critical nutrient in detoxification as it protects all cells from damage due to toxins. Therefore, it's always part of my detox protocols.
There are many more functions of Vitamin C, but you may benefit for high dose Vitamin C if you are looking to:
- reduce the frequency and duration of colds/flus
- enhance the look of hair, skin and nails
- support wound healing (eg. post-surgical)
- increase your energy
- improve brain function
- support detoxification
What's the experience like?
The treatment is administered while you relax in a reclining chair. The solution feels a bit cool (they are kept refrigerated), but otherwise there isn't much sensation. This allows you to relax while receiving your treatment. Some people read, rest the eyes, meditate or listen to music. Depending on the size of the treatment it may take 20 minutes or 50 minutes. Following the treatment, you are welcome to continue your activities as planned, eg. go to the gym, have dinner, etc.
The number of treatments recommended depends on how "empty your tank" is and also what we are targeting, eg. Is it for immune support, stress or detox? Some people may come in weekly, monthly or more or less than that.