The oxygen bar is a trend among night clubs that started in the late 1990s. Patrons inhale 50-99% oxygen from filtered or bottled air through a tube for 1-20 minutes, typically paying dollars per minute. (The composition of the atmosphere we normally breathe is 78% nitrogen (N₂), 21% oxygen (O₂), and less than 1% of other gases and particulate matter.)

Proponents claim the practice is not only safe, but enhances health and well-being, including strengthening the immune system, and enhancing concentration. Individually tailored scents add to the experience. Some individuals, however, experience little to no effect from the extra oxygen.

Opponents warn that individuals with respiratory diseases such as asthma and emphysema may cease breathing entirely with too much oxygen. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate the practice of adding scents, which can lead to inflammation of the lungs and pneumonia, or inhaling bacteria and other pathogens. Additionally, oxygen is a strong oxidizing agent and should be kept away from cigarettes and other sources of ignition.

External links

• http://www.fda.gov/fdac/features/2002/602_air.html

Pseudoscience

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