Article last reviewed on 5/6/2025. Next scheduled reviewed is on 5/6/2026.
Introduction: Why Canned Oxygen Is a Breath of Fresh Air
Let’s face it: we all have moments when we could use a little more air. Whether you’re hiking above the clouds, battling brain fog, or dragging after leg day, your body and brain thrive on one thing – oxygen. And while the air around you is about 21% oxygen, a can of portable, purified oxygen? That clocks in at a potent 98% pure oxygen.
REV/O2 Oxygen is also all-natural, emphasizing its safety and suitability for use.
This guide unpacks the science and the benefits of canned oxygen, separating hype from facts, and giving you everything you need to know to breathe smarter – wherever you are.
What Is Canned Oxygen?
Canned oxygen, sometimes called recreational or supplemental oxygen, is a lightweight, portable canister filled with nearly pure oxygen. It’s available over the counter (no prescription required) and designed to give your system a short-term oxygen boost.
Most products come with a mouthpiece and a trigger-activated valve that releases oxygen when pressed. Unlike medical-grade oxygen tanks used for chronic illnesses, canned oxygen is intended for non medical use by healthy individuals looking to support focus, recovery, or altitude adjustment. The delivery system is crucial in ensuring effective oxygen administration, as different methods can significantly impact the actual oxygen levels received.
Understanding Oxygen Therapy
Oxygen therapy is a medical treatment designed to provide supplemental oxygen to individuals with lung diseases or breathing problems, ensuring their bodies receive enough oxygen to function properly. When the air we breathe doesn’t supply sufficient oxygen, supplemental oxygen, such as REV/O2 oxygen, steps in to fill the gap. This therapy is often prescribed for conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pneumonia, or bronchitis, where the body’s oxygen needs exceed what ambient air can provide.
For those living in or visiting high-altitude areas, where oxygen levels in the air are lower, oxygen therapy becomes crucial. High altitudes can lead to altitude sickness, characterized by symptoms like headaches, dizziness, and shortness of breath. Supplemental oxygen helps alleviate these symptoms by boosting the oxygen content in the blood, ensuring the body gets the oxygen it needs to function optimally. Whether you’re a mountain climber or someone with a respiratory condition, understanding and utilizing oxygen therapy can make a significant difference in your well-being.
The Science of Oxygen
Oxygen is the lifeblood of our bodies, essential for maintaining healthy organs and tissues. When we breathe in air, our lungs filter out the oxygen, which is then transported to the body’s tissues via the bloodstream. This process is vital for energy production and overall cellular function. Typically, the air we breathe contains about 20% oxygen, but our bodies sometimes need more, especially under stress or in low-oxygen environments.
Oxygen saturation, a measure of the amount of oxygen in the blood, is a critical indicator of health. A healthy oxygen level is typically 95% or higher. When oxygen levels drop below this threshold, a condition known as hypoxemia, it can lead to serious health issues, including organ damage and failure. This is where oxygen therapy and supplemental oxygen come into play. By providing medical-grade oxygen, these treatments ensure that the body receives enough oxygen to function properly, preventing complications and supporting overall health. For individuals with lung diseases or breathing problems, maintaining proper oxygen saturation is crucial, and oxygen therapy can be a lifesaver.
Who Uses Canned Oxygen and Why?
The short answer? A lot of people. Here are the most common use cases:
- Athletes & fitness enthusiasts: to enhance stamina and reduce recovery time. Canned oxygen can help maintain energy levels during intense physical activities.
- High-altitude travelers: to combat low oxygen levels and altitude sickness. Canned oxygen can assist with altitude acclimation, making it easier to adjust to high altitude environments.
- Busy professionals & students: for mental clarity and productivity
- Older adults: to support everyday movement and breathing
- Wellness lovers: to support stress relief and relaxation
In fact, as our lifestyles become more demanding—mentally, physically, and environmentally—the demand for functional wellness tools like canned oxygen continues to rise. You might be surprised to find a can tucked in someone’s gym bag, travel kit, or even office drawer.
How Canned Oxygen Works
When you breathe in supplemental oxygen, you’re delivering a burst of concentrated O2 to your lungs. From there, oxygen is absorbed into your bloodstream and delivered to tissues, organs, and muscles. Taking a deep breath of the pure oxygen provided by the canister can elicit a refreshing and energizing effect, making it particularly beneficial for recovery after workouts or to alleviate feelings of fatigue. This can support energy metabolism, aid mental function, and reduce feelings of fatigue.
The effect is temporary but fast-acting, often noticeable within seconds of inhalation. Because oxygen is a key driver of cellular energy production, even a slight uptick can create a perceived improvement in alertness, stamina, and recovery. The extra oxygen provided by the canisters can enhance physical and mental performance, making it useful for athletic activities, high-altitude travel, and overall wellness during and after physical exertion.
Canned Oxygen vs. Room Air
Let’s do the math:
- Ambient air: ~21% oxygen
- Canned oxygen: 95–98% oxygen
At high altitudes, lower barometric pressure reduces the oxygen levels in the air, which poses risks such as altitude sickness and challenges the body's ability to maintain optimal oxygen levels in the bloodstream.
That jump in concentration can be a game changer during physical exertion, mental strain, or oxygen-depleted environments (like 8,000 ft elevations or stuffy gym basements). In such high-altitude environments, lower oxygen levels necessitate the use of supplemental oxygen to help the body adjust and mitigate the risk of altitude sickness.
It’s not about replacing what your lungs already do. It’s about offering a targeted boost when your system needs it most—especially when your environment or activity level demands more than what ambient air can deliver. Use our Altitude Oxygen Calculator to check our O2 levels.
Key Benefits of Canned Oxygen
- Enhanced Energy Production: Helps cells produce ATP more efficiently under stress.
- Reduced Fatigue: May restore focus and energy quickly during dips.
- Altitude Support: Can ease mild altitude sickness symptoms.
- Faster Recovery: May reduce soreness and speed up recovery after workouts.
- Sharper Focus & Mental Clarity: Supports brain function under pressure.
- Relaxation & Stress Relief: May calm the system, especially with aromatherapy.
- Improved Sleep Quality: Some users feel more relaxed before bed.
- Support During Allergy Season: Helps with respiratory sluggishness during high pollen counts.
- Mood Boosting Effects: May uplift moods, especially when paired with energizing aromas.
- Improve Performance: Aids in enhancing overall abilities during physical activities such as workouts and sports.
- More Relief: Users can experience more relief from symptoms like fatigue and altitude sickness.
Infused Oxygen: Essential Oils for Functional Benefits
Some oxygen brands (like REV/O2) go a step further by infusing their cans with natural, food-grade essential oils:
- Peppermint: Invigorates and refreshes
- Lemon: Helps with recovery and uplifting mood
- Eucalyptus: Supports breathing and relaxation
Each oil adds a subtle aromatic boost that enhances the overall experience depending on your wellness goal.
Real-World Scenarios
- Skiing at 9,000 feet and feeling lightheaded? A few breaths can help.
- Post-HIIT and need a reset? Grab the can.
- Afternoon slump? Breathe instead of brewing another coffee.
- Parents slowing down on a hike? Offer them a can.
- Walking the dog feels tiring? Try a few inhales beforehand.
- Caring for a senior? Keep oxygen on hand for shallow breaths or energy dips.
- Recovering from a mild illness? It may help support stamina post-recovery.
- Living or working at altitude? Canned oxygen can be a portable assist.
- Climbing high elevations like Mount Kilimanjaro? Canned oxygen can provide more oxygen, helping to alleviate mild symptoms of altitude sickness such as headaches or fatigue.
Expanding on Use Cases: When and Where to Use Canned Oxygen
- During flights to reduce jet lag
- At festivals or crowded indoor events
- During allergy season
- For post-COVID recovery (with guidance)
- Before and after presentations or meetings
- During long shifts in high-stress jobs
- During screen fatigue
- As a reset between tasks
- After mask-wearing periods
- Before emotional events or social interactions
- After naps
- After a night of snoring or congestion
- For recreational purposes like sports and travel
- Intended for non medical use and not a substitute for medical-grade oxygen
Air Quality and Oxygen
Poor air quality can significantly impact our health, leading to low oxygen levels (hypoxemia) and exacerbating lung diseases or breathing problems. Air pollution, a common culprit, reduces the oxygen content in the air, making it harder for our bodies to get the oxygen they need. In such scenarios, supplemental oxygen becomes a necessary treatment to ensure adequate oxygen levels in the blood.
Oxygen bars and oxygen tanks offer supplemental oxygen to help increase oxygen levels, but they may not be suitable for everyone, especially those with medical conditions. Recreational oxygen, while beneficial for short-term use, is not a substitute for medical-grade oxygen and should be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider. Canned oxygen, such as REV/O2 oxygen, provides a convenient way to increase oxygen levels, particularly in environments with poor air quality. However, it’s essential to remember that while canned oxygen can offer temporary relief, it is not a replacement for medical-grade oxygen for those with serious health conditions.
Traveling with Canned Oxygen
Traveling, especially to high-altitude areas, can pose challenges for maintaining adequate oxygen levels. Canned oxygen offers a convenient and portable solution for supplemental oxygen needs while on the go. These oxygen canisters can be easily purchased online or in-store and provide a quick way to boost oxygen levels in the blood, helping to alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness and other breathing problems.
When using canned oxygen while traveling, it’s crucial to follow the instructions for use and consult with a healthcare provider, particularly if you have a medical condition. While canned oxygen can help manage altitude sickness and provide relief during travel, it is not a substitute for medical-grade oxygen. Always ensure that you have the appropriate medical guidance and use canned oxygen as a supplementary aid to enhance your travel experience and maintain your well-being.
Athletic Performance and Recovery Deep Dive
Endurance athletes and trainers use oxygen to aid recovery. Studies suggest it may:
- Reduce lactic acid buildup
- Help normalize heart rate post-exercise
- Restore resting oxygen levels faster
Canned oxygen can enhance sports performance by improving oxygen delivery to muscles.
It’s also a great pre-workout motivator. A few peppermint-infused breaths before a session may prime your mindset and muscles. Maintaining high energy levels can aid in faster recovery post-exercise.
Respiratory Support for Older Adults
For seniors doing light activity, supplemental oxygen can help reduce breathlessness and fatigue. It’s a drug-free way to support aerobic function and mobility. Before using canned oxygen, it is advisable to consult healthcare providers to ensure it is appropriate for your health needs.
Many older adults use it before stairs, errands, or travel. More oxygen can help older adults during physical activities, providing additional support when needed. Those at altitude or in wildfire-prone areas also benefit during poor air quality days.
Is It Safe?
Yes—when used as directed. Keep in mind:
- Use in moderation (1–5 breaths at a time)
- Avoid use near flames
- Store in cool, dry places
- Not a substitute for medical-grade oxygen; intended for non medical use
Always read product labels and consult your doctor if you have a chronic condition.
When using an oxygen tank, ensure it is kept away from any source of ignition to prevent dangerous situations.
How to Use Canned Oxygen
- Rotate the trigger lock to the unlocked position
- Hold the can with your finger on the trigger
- Place the mouthpiece around your lips
- Press the trigger and inhale slowly (3–5 seconds), taking a deep breath to maximize the benefits
- Repeat as needed
- Re-lock when finished
Effects are typically felt within 10 seconds to 1 minute.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long does a can last?
A: A 10L can offers around 40–60 breaths depending on depth.
Q: Can I fly with it?
A: Most airlines don’t allow it in carry-ons. Always check with your carrier.
Q: Can kids use it?
A: Only under adult supervision and ideally with a doctor’s approval.
Q: Is it addictive?
A: No. Oxygen is not addictive—but it is habit-improving.
Q: Is canned oxygen FDA-approved?
A: It’s not regulated as a drug, so use responsibly.
Q: How often can I use it?
A: As needed. Most users take 1–5 breaths a few times daily.
Q: Does it help with headaches?
A: Some users find relief during early headache stages—but it’s not a substitute for clinical therapy.
Q: Can it help with jet lag?
A: Yes. It can help reset and reoxygenate after long flights.
Q: Will it help me sleep?
A: It’s not a sleep aid, but some people find it helps them wind down.
Q: What makes REV/O2 different?
A: REV/O2 delivers 98% pure oxygen with natural infusions. Our patented mouthpiece, recyclable can, and focus on purity make us stand out—especially at altitude.
Q: Can more oxygen help with various activities and conditions?
A: Yes, larger canisters hold more oxygen, making them suitable for extended use during activities like hiking, sports, or dealing with altitude sickness.
Q: What is the placebo effect and how does it impact perceived benefits?
A: The placebo effect can make users feel better after using canned oxygen products, but these improvements are often psychological rather than physiological, potentially misleading users about their actual health state.
Wrapping It Up
Canned oxygen is more than a trend. It’s a smart, science-backed way to boost your energy, sharpen your focus, support recovery, and thrive at altitude. Whether you’re training, traveling, or just trying to get through the day with more clarity, a few deep breaths might be all it takes. Additionally, using canned oxygen for recreational purposes can enhance performance and enjoyment in various activities such as sports and travel.
With REV/O2, you can personalize your oxygen experience—peppermint for energy, lemon for recovery, eucalyptus for clarity—and breathe better, wherever you are. The popularity of canned oxygen products, particularly REV/O2 Oxygen, has surged as the market leader (no gimmicky Shark Tank deal needed),.
Take a breath. Feel the difference.
