IV therapy: A fast-growing wellness trend
By Lisa Nicklanovich; photo courtesy of Prime IV Hydration and Wellness
A client relaxes at an intravenous (IV) drip spa while receiving fluids meant to replenish hydration and nutrients.
Intravenous (IV) drips, usually administered in a hospital setting to receive fluids, medications or other treatments, are a fast-growing wellness trend. Thanks to endorsements from celebrities like Gwyneth Paltrow, Adele and Madonna, the practice of receiving boosts of hydration and nutrients directly into the bloodstream on-demand is set for tremendous growth next year. The benefit claimed is that by bypassing the digestive system entirely, the nutrients are delivered at a higher percentage and directly into the body where they can be readily absorbed.
Hundreds of IV drip spas are opening around the country with cocktails of fluids that claim to boost immunity, cure jet lag, ease allergies, restore youth and energy and boost athletic performance, to name a few. By far, immunity support is most popular with high doses of vitamin C and zinc along with glutathione, one of the most important antioxidants in our bodies.
IV drip spas are not just opening in large cities. Prime IV Hydration and Wellness recently opened a new franchise location in The Village at Castle Pines shops (see related story page 10). THE DRIPBaR is another franchise opening new locations all across the country. Both gyms and beauty salons are jumping in on the trend as well, adding IV infusions to their menus. Mobile IV services, which come to your home, are also becoming more readily available.
As in a hospital, the cocktail of fluids is contained in a small bag on a stand so it can drip down easily. The fluid then travels down a tube, goes through a needle that is penetrating the skin, and makes its way directly into the bloodstream. An IV pump regulates the amount of fluid that comes out of the IV bag. Unlike a hospital, IV drip spas administer treatments in a spa-like setting with warm lighting and massage chairs.
IV therapy is widely traced to a Baltimore doctor named John A. Myers, who, before his death in 1984, administered infusions that became known as Myers’ Cocktail. This classic IV drip contains IV fluid, vitamin C, magnesium and B vitamins which is said to be the ultimate drip for overall health and wellness. The Myers’ Cocktail is typically offered with some variation on most IV drip spa menus.
The risks associated with getting an IV infusion are infection or irritation at the site or potentially a blood clot. If considering IV therapy, ensure those administering the IV are qualified and experienced health professionals.
