Oxygen saturation (medicine)
Oxygen saturation is the fraction of oxygen-saturated hemoglobin relative to total hemoglobin (unsaturated + saturated) in the blood. The human body requires and regulates a very precise and specific balance of oxygen in the blood. Normal blood oxygen levels in humans are considered 95–100 percent. If the level is below 90 percent, it is considered low resulting in hypoxemia. Blood oxygen levels below 80 percent may compromise organ function, such as the brain and heart, and should be promptly addressed. Continued low oxygen levels may lead to respiratory or cardiac arrest. Oxygen therapy may be used to assist in raising blood oxygen levels. Oxygenation occurs when oxygen molecules () enter the tissues of the body. For example, blood is oxygenated in the lungs, where oxygen molecules travel from the air and into the blood. Oxygenation is commonly used to refer to medical oxygen saturation.
Umbellulone
Umbellulone induces rapid production of methemoglobine. Methemoglobine is a globin in the blood which mainly consists of ferric (Fe) haemoglobin instead of the usual ferrous (Fe) haemoglobin. Methemoglobin has a decreased ability to bind oxygen. But in combination with the 3 other ferrous irons on the hemoglobin unit, the oxygen release is also decreased. Red blood cells will be less able to nurture organs with oxygen. Therefore, the probability for a hypoxia increases. Methemoglobin lethality is possible at concentrations higher than 50% of the substance in red blood cells.