Health Benefits of Longwave Infrared Heating
Longwave infrared radiant heat is a form of naturally occurring energy that heats objects by direct light conversion (DLC). DLC warms only the object and does not raise the temperature of the surrounding free air. All life requires longwave infrared heat from the sun. longwave infrared heat is not ultraviolet radiation, but a narrow band of energy within the 5.6 to 15 micron level. This type of energy travels only 2-3” deep into the body to increase circulation and nourish damaged tissue. The sun is the primary source of radiant energy, but not all of this energy is beneficial. Sunlight also contains harmful solar radiation. Although life needs energy from the sun, too much sunlight damages the skin. longwave infrared heat provides all the healthy benefits of natural sunlight without any of the dangerous effects of solar radiation.
Infrared heaters warm the body in the same manner as natural sunlight. longwave infrared heat therapy uses the wavelength of the visible and non-visible light spectrum of sunlight that heats the body normally. For years, the healthcare industry recommended infrared heat lamps as a source of longwave infrared heat, but the lamps were cumbersome, extremely hot and difficult to maintain at a constant temperature. The development of ceramic infrared heaters created a new and convenient source of longwave infrared heat therapy.
For example, in modern sauna cabins, longwave infrared emitters, identical to those used in the Pubsun IR heaters, provide a series of health benefits which can be categorised under the following headings: pain relief, weight control, detoxification, induces fever, reduces stress, benefits to skin.
Infrared & Health: The relationship
When longwave infrared rays penetrate the skin, they come into contact with proteins, collagen, fats and water molecules. By stimulating micro-vibrations longwave infrared causes a thermal reaction, which elevates tissue temperatures. The human body then reacts by dilating all the blood vessels regardless of size. Tissues are revitalized because of the improved (micro & macro) circulation.
Longwave Infrared can actually increase the regenerative ability of the body tissue. It also reduces abnormalities in the nervous system and helps the autonomous system function at an optimum level. Scientists continue to study infrared wavelengths of light, and improve their understanding of its therapeutic effects on our bodies. longwave infrared is rapidly gaining worldwide recognition and acclaim as a complimentary medical and alternative therapy treatment.
Circulation promotes good health
An important principle of traditional Chinese medicine is that good blood circulation promotes good health. Conversely, an obstructed blood flow will increase the likelihood of disease and pain. Other ancient Asian therapies such as the Japanese “Palm Therapy” and China’s “Qi Gong Therapy” are also based on the premise that the human body itself is capable of radiating longwave infrared rays. Infrared therapy has proven to be effective because its “hot rays” exhibit analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-spasmodic capabilities.
Did you know?
Increasing the absorption of solar energy accelerates the burning up of fats, sugars, and toxins. Experimental animals receiving full-spectrum light from the sun will weigh less than animals fed an identical diet, but were not exposed to full spectrum sunlight. A lack of a balanced spectrum of light can cause loss of muscle tone and strength. Windows, windscreens, eye-glasses, smog, and suntan lotions all filter out parts of the light spectrum.
When light enters our eyes, millions of cells convert the light into electrical impulses, which travel along the optic nerve to our brain. These impulses then trigger our hypothalamus gland and the endocrine system. Most automatic bodily functions such as breathing, digestion, blood pressure and body temperature are governed by the endocrine system. It also influences our immune system, moods, sexual function, and even how we age.
Albert Szent-Gyorgi, the Nobel Prize winner and the discoverer of vitamin C, believed the sun’s energy has profound effects on us. His research revealed that light can literally alter our basic biological functions. Several other studies have also provided significant evidence that sunlight produces a metabolic effect in the body that is akin to the benefits derived from physical exercise.
One of the earliest longwave infrared health products developed was a sauna which used radiant energy instead of hot air. In 1965, Dr. Tadashi Ishikawa received the patent on the zirconia ceramic infrared heaters used in these heat cabins. These thermal systems were used exclusively by medical practitioners in Japan until 1979 when they were released for public use. The best modern saunas / heat cabins now use ceramic longwave emitters instead of steam and short or medium wave tubular bars. Infrared panels that produce lower heat levels were also developed for use in hospitals to warm newborn babies.
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