1
|
Lech JC, Halma MT, Obajuluwa AO, Baker M, Hamblin MR. Fiat Lux: Light and Pedagogy for the 21st Century. Ann Neurosci 2023; 30:133-142. [PMID: 37706102 PMCID: PMC10496794 DOI: 10.1177/09727531221136646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 09/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The relationship between the quality of the learning environment and student outcomes is receiving more serious attention from educational psychologists, neurologists, ophthalmologists, orthopedists, surgeons, oncologists, architects, ergonomists, nutritionists, and Michelin star chefs. There is a role for ergonomic office and school design to positively impact worker and student productivity, and one design attribute drawing attention is the indoor lit environment. In this review, we expand upon the role that light plays in education, as it has enabled millions of pupils to read at late hours, which were previously too dark. However, still unappreciated is the biological effects of artificial light on circadian rhythm and its subsequent impacts on health and learning outcomes. Summary This review describes the current state of light in the educational environment, its impact, and the effect of certain inexpensive and easy-to-implement adaptations to better support student growth, learning and development. We find that the current lighting environment for pupils is sub-optima based on biological mechanism and may be improved through cost effective interventions. These interventions can achieve greater biological harmonization and improve learner outcomes. Key Message The impact of the lighting environment in educational institutions on pupil biology has received minimal attention thus far. The current lighting environment in schools is not conducive to student health and educational performance. Cost-effective approaches can have an outsized impact on student health and educational attainment. We strongly recommend educational institutions take the lit environment into account when designing educational programs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- James C. Lech
- * These authors share joint first authorship
- Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam (UMC), Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- National Research Foundation, South Africa
- International EMF Project & Optical Radiation, World Health Organization, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Matthew T.J. Halma
- * These authors share joint first authorship
- Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Adejoke O. Obajuluwa
- Biotechnology Unit, Department of Biological Sciences, Afe Babalola University, Olusegun Obasanjo Way, Ado Ekiti, Nigeria
| | - Malcolm Baker
- † Passed away June 16, 2021
- Department of Neurology, 1 Military Hospital, Pretoria, Department of Defence, South Africa Military Health Service Pretoria
- Department of Neurology, University of Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Michael R. Hamblin
- Laser Research Centre, Faculty of Health Science, University of Johannesburg, Doornfontein, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Sinatra ST, Sinatra DS, Sinatra SW, Chevalier G. Grounding - The universal anti-inflammatory remedy. Biomed J 2022; 46:11-16. [PMID: 36528336 PMCID: PMC10105021 DOI: 10.1016/j.bj.2022.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2022] [Revised: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Grounding or earthing could be the anti-inflammatory antidote for modern man. It is one of the greatest kept secrets when it comes to our health and aliveness and only a small part of the scientific community really understands the concept. Once health professionals and others realize that grounding is especially important in preventing inflammatory illness, an incredible effect on public health will be realized. The breath of validation from previous published data and real-life testimonials is a testimony of the earth's dramatic impact on healing the human body. Health information is constantly changing as a result of new research in various approaches to treating a multitude of inflammatory conditions. Sometimes, even with the most relevant published data, it is difficult to choose which advice is most conducive for healing. For example, it has been noted that perhaps one-third of the medical literature could be fraudulent.. Understanding absolute versus relative risk can also be confusing even for health professionals. And when data is reported in relative risk, only a fraction of the real science is revealed. However, one small established fact that conveys universal agreement is the simple correlation that inflammation is the root cause of almost all diseases!
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stephen T Sinatra
- Department of Medicine, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, USA
| | | | | | - Gaetan Chevalier
- Department of Family Medicine and Public Health, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Jamieson IA. Grounding (earthing) as related to electromagnetic hygiene: An integrative review. Biomed J 2022; 46:30-40. [PMID: 36496151 PMCID: PMC10105031 DOI: 10.1016/j.bj.2022.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
There are a growing number of studies investigating how grounding (earthing) the body may benefit biological performance and aid the treatment of non-communicable diseases. Research also indicates how biological grounding initiatives can sometimes be compromised, or inappropriate, and the need to take additional factors into account as potential contributory factors, or confounders, to expected results. It is proposed that expanding electromagnetic hygiene measures beyond biological grounding alone may help reduce spread of communicable diseases, incidence of respiratory conditions, neurodegenerative disease and all-cause mortality. Identifying potential synergies that exist could enable multilevel interventions to further increase the efficacy of measures. It is hoped that this review will help act as a catalyst to inspire and inform multi-disciplinary research within these topic areas, best practices and policies to help drive medical innovation, reduce health burdens, improve bioelectromagnetic-based therapies, and influence the general design of the built environment and next-generation technologies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Isaac A Jamieson
- Design, Business and Technology Management Program, Faculty of Architecture and Planning, Thammasat University, Rangsit Campus, Klong Luang, Pathumthani 12121, Thailand.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Practical applications of grounding to support health. Biomed J 2022; 46:41-47. [PMID: 36481428 PMCID: PMC10105020 DOI: 10.1016/j.bj.2022.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2022] [Revised: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
An ever expanding body of research over the past several decades suggest that directly touching the earth, a practice known as grounding, puts the body into a healing state. The natural universe conducts an energy current known as a direct current (DC). This DC circuit of energy flows through everything on our planet, including plants, animals, human beings, and the surface of our entire globe, creating a global electrical circuit. DC energy is also what the living human body uses to function, as everything from the beating of our heart to the movement of our muscles to our brain's ability to think operates using DC energy. The earth's DC energy flows continuously across the earth's crust, and anything conductive that touches the earth becomes part of this natural circuit. Our human bodies, which are highly conductive, join this global electrical circuit whenever we make direct contact with the earth, a practice known as grounding. Medical studies are revealing that by becoming a part of the global electrical circuit, through grounding, the human body enters a profound healing state. As our understanding of the health benefits of grounding continue to deepen, we can begin to use grounding as an intentional healing tool in clinical medicine. Grounding may play a role in not only improving the body's natural ability to function, but may also play a role in the healing of disease and the prevention of disease development in the first place. Studies so far suggest that becoming a part of the earth's global DC circuit enhances our conductive health, which has far reaching implications to all our organ systems that utilize DC energy and conductivity to work, including but not limited to: our central and peripheral nervous system, our musculoskeletal system, and our cardiovascular system. Further research into the healing properties of grounding will help clinicians tailor suggestions for specific health issues, and will help us understand the role of our body's conductivity in the presence of our global electrical circuit.
Collapse
|
5
|
Oschman JL. Illnesses in technologically advanced societies due to lack of grounding (earthing). Biomed J 2022; 46:17-29. [PMID: 36336303 PMCID: PMC10105023 DOI: 10.1016/j.bj.2022.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2022] [Revised: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The research on grounding or earthing summarized here is providing valuable clues about why chronic and autoimmune diseases are rampant, simple and reliable help for those with these health issues, and promising paths forward. During the period when this research was getting started, approximately 2000 to the present, scientists from around the world were establishing connections between inflammation and virtually all chronic diseases (Table 1) using the c-reactive protein assay developed by Ridker and his colleagues at Harvard Medical School. This article reviews Earthing, a safe therapy that optimizes (balances) each person's unique physiological functions; and that provides relief from the major diseases of the aging population; and that may slow the aging process itself. This statement is made because of the recognition that cumulative damage by reactive oxygen species (ROS), sometimes referred to as free radicals, is one of the most widely studied theories of the cause of aging. Because the continuous semiconducting fabric of the body reaches into every part of the body, including the interiors of all cells and their nuclei, mobile electrons in the grounded or earthed person are thought to be capable of rapidly neutralizing ROS produced by oxidative metabolism taking place in every cell and tissue.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- James L Oschman
- Nature's Own Research Association, PO Box 1935, Dover, NH, USA; The Earthing Institute, 367 S Cahuilla Rd, Palm Springs, CA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Muniz-Pardos B, Zelenkova I, Gonzalez-Aguero A, Knopp M, Boitz T, Graham M, Ruiz D, Casajus JA, Pitsiladis YP. The Impact of Grounding in Running Shoes on Indices of Performance in Elite Competitive Athletes. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19031317. [PMID: 35162340 PMCID: PMC8834746 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19031317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2021] [Revised: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The introduction of carbon fiber plate shoes has triggered a plethora of world records in running, which has encouraged shoe industries to produce novel shoe designs to enhance running performance, including shoes containing conductor elements or “grounding shoes” (GS), which could potentially reduce the energy cost of running. The aim of this study was to examine the physiological and perceptual responses of athletes subjected to grounding shoes during running. Ten elite runners were recruited. Firstly, the athletes performed an incremental running test for VO2max and anaerobic threshold (AT) determination, and were familiarized with the two shoe conditions (traditional training shoe (TTS) and GS, the latter containing a conductor element under the insole). One week apart, athletes performed running economy tests (20 min run at 80% of the AT) on a 400 m dirt track, with shoe conditions randomized. VO2, heart rate, lactate, and perceived fatigue were registered throughout the experiment. No differences in any of the physiological or perceptual variables were identified between shoe conditions, with an equal running economy in both TTS and GS (51.1 ± 4.2 vs. 50.9 ± 5.1 mL kg−1 min−1, respectively). Our results suggest that a grounding stimulus does not improve the energy cost of running, or the physiological/perceptual responses of elite athletes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Borja Muniz-Pardos
- Faculty of Health and Sports Science (FCSD), Department of Physiatry and Nursing, University of Zaragoza, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain; (B.M.-P.); (A.G.-A.)
- GENUD (Growth, Exercise, Nutrition and Development) Research Group, Department of Physiatry and Nursing, University of Zaragoza, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain; (I.Z.); (J.A.C.)
- International Federation of Sports Medicine (FIMS), 1007 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Irina Zelenkova
- GENUD (Growth, Exercise, Nutrition and Development) Research Group, Department of Physiatry and Nursing, University of Zaragoza, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain; (I.Z.); (J.A.C.)
- International Federation of Sports Medicine (FIMS), 1007 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Alex Gonzalez-Aguero
- Faculty of Health and Sports Science (FCSD), Department of Physiatry and Nursing, University of Zaragoza, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain; (B.M.-P.); (A.G.-A.)
- GENUD (Growth, Exercise, Nutrition and Development) Research Group, Department of Physiatry and Nursing, University of Zaragoza, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain; (I.Z.); (J.A.C.)
- International Federation of Sports Medicine (FIMS), 1007 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Melanie Knopp
- adidas Innovation, adidas AG, 91074 Herzogenaurach, Germany; (M.K.); (T.B.); (M.G.); (D.R.)
| | - Toni Boitz
- adidas Innovation, adidas AG, 91074 Herzogenaurach, Germany; (M.K.); (T.B.); (M.G.); (D.R.)
| | - Martin Graham
- adidas Innovation, adidas AG, 91074 Herzogenaurach, Germany; (M.K.); (T.B.); (M.G.); (D.R.)
| | - Daniel Ruiz
- adidas Innovation, adidas AG, 91074 Herzogenaurach, Germany; (M.K.); (T.B.); (M.G.); (D.R.)
| | - Jose A. Casajus
- GENUD (Growth, Exercise, Nutrition and Development) Research Group, Department of Physiatry and Nursing, University of Zaragoza, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain; (I.Z.); (J.A.C.)
- International Federation of Sports Medicine (FIMS), 1007 Lausanne, Switzerland
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Physiatry and Nursing, University of Zaragoza, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Yannis P. Pitsiladis
- International Federation of Sports Medicine (FIMS), 1007 Lausanne, Switzerland
- School of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Brighton, Eastbourne BN20 7SN, UK
- Centre for Exercise Sciences and Sports Medicine, FIMS Collaborating Centre of Sports Medicine, University of Rome “Foro Italico”, 00135 Rome, Italy
- European Federation of Sports Medicine Associations (EFSMA), 1007 Lausanne, Switzerland
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Menigoz W, Latz TT, Ely RA, Kamei C, Melvin G, Sinatra D. Integrative and lifestyle medicine strategies should include Earthing (grounding): Review of research evidence and clinical observations. Explore (NY) 2019; 16:152-160. [PMID: 31831261 DOI: 10.1016/j.explore.2019.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2019] [Revised: 08/28/2019] [Accepted: 10/30/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Earthing (also known as grounding) refers to the discovery that bodily contact with the Earth's natural electric charge stabilizes the physiology at the deepest levels, reduces inflammation, pain, and stress, improves blood flow, energy, and sleep, and generates greater well-being. Such effects are profound, systemic, and foundational, and often develop rapidly. Earthing is as simple as routinely walking barefoot outdoors and/or using inexpensive grounding systems indoors while sleeping or sitting, practices that restore a lost and needed electric connection with the Earth. Some 20 studies to date have reported intriguing evidence of wide and significant physiological improvements when the body is grounded vs. non-grounded. The research, along with numerous anecdotal reports, demonstrates that Earthing clearly deserves inclusion in the clinical practice of preventive, alternative, and lifestyle medicine and has great potential to render these approaches more effective.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wendy Menigoz
- Naprapathic Healing Center, 1230 Larry Power Rd., Bourbonnais, IL 60914, United States.
| | - Tracy T Latz
- Lake Norman Integrative Psychiatry, 116 S Main St, Suite 301, Mooresville, NC 28115, United States.
| | - Robin A Ely
- Center for Integrative Medicine, 12536 Ansin Circle Drive, Potomac, MD, United States.
| | - Cimone Kamei
- Jujube Clinic, 2863 Kalakaua Ave., Diamond Head Suite, Honolulu, HI 96815, United States.
| | - Gregory Melvin
- Total Thermal Imaging Wellness Center, 8341 La Mesa Blvd, La Mesa, CA 91942, United States.
| | - Drew Sinatra
- Clear Center of Health, 125 Throckmorton Ave, Mill Valley, CA 94941, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Müller E, Pröller P, Ferreira-Briza F, Aglas L, Stöggl T. Effectiveness of Grounded Sleeping on Recovery After Intensive Eccentric Muscle Loading. Front Physiol 2019; 10:35. [PMID: 30745882 PMCID: PMC6360250 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2019.00035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2018] [Accepted: 01/11/2019] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose: We set out to investigate the effectiveness of grounded sleeping on the time course of recovery with respect to muscle soreness and athletic performance after intensive eccentric muscle loading. Methods: Twenty-two healthy participants were recruited for this study and randomly assigned to an experimental group (GRD, grounded sleeping, n = 12) or control group (UGD, sham-grounded sleeping, n = 10) to evaluate the effects of 10 days recovery with GRD vs. UGD following a single intensive downhill treadmill intervention in a triple-blinded (participant, tester, and data analyst) manner. To operationalize recovery a test battery was performed at baseline and on days 1, 2, 3, 5, 7, and 10 post-intervention: (1) perception of muscle soreness (VAS), (2) creatine kinase blood levels (CK), (3) maximum voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) for both legs, (4) counter movement jump (CMJ) and drop jump (DJ) performance. Furthermore, in four participants blood was sampled for detailed analysis of complete blood counts and serum-derived inflammation markers. Results: The downhill treadmill running intervention led to distinct changes in all measured parameters related to fatigue. These changes were detectable already 5-min post intervention and were not fully recovered 10 days post intervention. GRD led to less pronounced decrease in performance (CMJ, MVIC) and less increase with respect to CK compared with UGD (all P < 0.05). Detailed blood samples demonstrated that grounded sleeping modulates the recovery process by (a) keeping a constant hemoconcentration, as represented by the number of erythrocytes, and the hemoglobin/hematocrit values; and (b) by the reduction of muscle damage-associated inflammation markers such as, IP-10, MIP-1α, and sP-Selectin. Conclusion: The downhill running protocol is a feasible methodology to produce long term muscle soreness and muscular fatigue. GRD was shown to result in faster recovery and/or less pronounced markers of muscle damage and inflammation. GRD might be seen as a simple methodology to enhance acute and long-term recovery after intensive eccentric exercises.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Erich Müller
- Department of Sport and Exercise Science, University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
- Olympic Training Center Salzburg-Rif, Hallein, Austria
| | - Patrick Pröller
- Department of Sport and Exercise Science, University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | | | - Lorenz Aglas
- Department of Biosciences, University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Thomas Stöggl
- Department of Sport and Exercise Science, University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Neoh SL. Exploratory study on the natural ground electric current that flows through human body as a possible pathway for the therapeutic effects of beach going. Complement Ther Med 2018; 41:161-168. [PMID: 30477833 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2018.09.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2018] [Revised: 09/17/2018] [Accepted: 09/17/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
This paper explores the electrical nature of sandy beach and proposes a pathway for the therapeutic effects of beach going. The electric potential and current generated on the ground across the human body and resistors were measured. The ground was found to have a non-homogenous electric potential which generated a potential difference between any two points on the ground. A power curve, similar to a battery, in the nanowatt range was obtained. This power appeared to be stable across time but varies across ground location. Standing on the beach with dry feet did not allow any current in the micro-ampere range to conduct. But upon moistening the feet, the body electrical resistance was reduced by 94% and the ground potential difference across the two feet was sufficient to drive a micro-ampere range current through the body. This may be one reason for the therapeutic effects of being on the beach.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Seong Lee Neoh
- Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, Kuala Nerus, 21030, Kuala Terengganu, Terengganu, Malaysia.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Sokal P, Harat M, Zieliński P, Kierońska S. Tibial nerve stimulation with a miniature, wireless stimulator in chronic peripheral neuropathic pain. J Pain Res 2017; 10:613-619. [PMID: 28352201 PMCID: PMC5359134 DOI: 10.2147/jpr.s128861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Peripheral neuropathic pain (PNP) and complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) can be effectively treated with peripheral nerve stimulation. In this clinical trial report, effectiveness of novel, miniature, wirelessly controlled microstimulator of tibial nerve in PNP and CRPS was evaluated. In this pilot study the average preoperative visual analog scale (VAS) score in six patients was 7.5, with 1, 3 and 6 months: 2.6 (p=0.03), 1.6 (p=0.03), and 1.3 (p=0.02), respectively. The mean average score in the six patients a week preceding the baseline visit was 7.96, preceding the 1, 3 and 6 month visits: 3.32 (p=0.043), 3.65 (p=0.045), and 2.49 (p=0.002), respectively. The average short-form McGill pain score before surgery was 23.8, and after 1, 3 and 6 months it was 11.0 (p=0.45), 6.3 (p=0.043), and 4.5 (p=0.01), respectively. Applied therapy caused a reduction of pain immediately after its application and clinical improvement was sustained on a similar level in all patients for six months. No complications of the treatment were observed. Intermittent tibial nerve stimulation by using a novel, miniature, wirelessly controlled device can be effective and feasible in PNP and CRPS. It is a safe, minimally invasive, and convenient neuromodulative method.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paweł Sokal
- Department of Neurosurgery, Military Research Hospital, Bydgoszcz
| | - Marek Harat
- Department of Public Health, Ludwik Rydygier Collegium Medicum, Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University, Toruń
| | - Piotr Zieliński
- Department of Sports Medicine, University of Physical Education and Sport, Gdansk, Poland
| | - Sara Kierońska
- Department of Neurosurgery, Military Research Hospital, Bydgoszcz
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Bevington M. Lunar biological effects and the magnetosphere. PATHOPHYSIOLOGY 2015; 22:211-22. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pathophys.2015.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2012] [Revised: 08/12/2015] [Accepted: 08/28/2015] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
|
12
|
Brown R, Chevalier G, Hill M. Grounding after moderate eccentric contractions reduces muscle damage. Open Access J Sports Med 2015; 6:305-17. [PMID: 26443876 PMCID: PMC4590684 DOI: 10.2147/oajsm.s87970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Grounding a human to the earth has resulted in changes in the physiology of the body. A pilot study on grounding and eccentric contractions demonstrated shortened duration of pain, reduced creatine kinase (CK), and differences in blood parameters. This follow-up study was conducted to investigate the effects of grounding after moderate eccentric contractions on pain, CK, and complete blood counts. Thirty-two healthy young men were randomly divided into grounded (n=16) and sham-grounded (n=16) groups. On days 1 through 4, visual analog scale for pain evaluations and blood draws were accomplished. On day 1, the participants performed eccentric contractions of 200 half-knee bends. They were then grounded or sham-grounded to the earth for 4 hours on days 1 and 2. Both groups experienced pain on all posttest days. On day 2, the sham-grounded group experienced significant CK increase (P<0.01) while the CK of the grounded group did not increase significantly; the between-group difference was significant (P=0.04). There was also an increase in the neutrophils of the grounded group on day 3 (P=0.05) compared to the sham-grounded group. There was a significant increase in platelets in the grounded group on days 2 through 4. Grounding produced changes in CK and complete blood counts that were not shared by the sham-grounded group. Grounding significantly reduced the loss of CK from the injured muscles indicating reduced muscle damage. These results warrant further study on the effects of earthing on delayed onset muscle damage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Richard Brown
- Department of Human Physiology, University of Oregon, Eugene, OR, USA
| | - Gaétan Chevalier
- Developmental and Cell Biology Department, University of California at Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Michael Hill
- Garden Way Chiropractic Center and Sports Injury Clinic, Eugene, OR, USA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Oschman JL, Chevalier G, Brown R. The effects of grounding (earthing) on inflammation, the immune response, wound healing, and prevention and treatment of chronic inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. J Inflamm Res 2015; 8:83-96. [PMID: 25848315 PMCID: PMC4378297 DOI: 10.2147/jir.s69656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Multi-disciplinary research has revealed that electrically conductive contact of the human body with the surface of the Earth (grounding or earthing) produces intriguing effects on physiology and health. Such effects relate to inflammation, immune responses, wound healing, and prevention and treatment of chronic inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. The purpose of this report is two-fold: to 1) inform researchers about what appears to be a new perspective to the study of inflammation, and 2) alert researchers that the length of time and degree (resistance to ground) of grounding of experimental animals is an important but usually overlooked factor that can influence outcomes of studies of inflammation, wound healing, and tumorigenesis. Specifically, grounding an organism produces measurable differences in the concentrations of white blood cells, cytokines, and other molecules involved in the inflammatory response. We present several hypotheses to explain observed effects, based on current research results and our understanding of the electronic aspects of cell and tissue physiology, cell biology, biophysics, and biochemistry. An experimental injury to muscles, known as delayed onset muscle soreness, has been used to monitor the immune response under grounded versus ungrounded conditions. Grounding reduces pain and alters the numbers of circulating neutrophils and lymphocytes, and also affects various circulating chemical factors related to inflammation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Gaétan Chevalier
- Developmental and Cell Biology Department, University of California at Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Richard Brown
- Human Physiology Department, University of Oregon, Eugene, OR, USA
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Analysis of the charge exchange between the human body and ground: evaluation of "earthing" from an electrical perspective. J Chiropr Med 2014; 13:239-46. [PMID: 25435837 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcm.2014.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2014] [Revised: 08/21/2014] [Accepted: 09/09/2014] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to investigate "earthing" from an electrical perspective through measurement and analysis of the naturally occurring electron flow between the human body or a control and ground as this relates to the magnitude of the charge exchange, the relationship between the charge exchange and body functions (respiration and heart rate), and the detection of other information that might be contained in the charge exchange. METHODS Sensitive, low-noise instrumentation was designed and fabricated to measure low-level current flow at low frequencies. This instrumentation was used to record current flow between human subjects or a control and ground, and these measurements were performed approximately 40 times under varied circumstances. The results of these measurements were analyzed to determine if information was contained in the current exchange. RESULTS The currents flowing between the human body and ground were small (nanoamperes), and they correlated with subject motion. There did not appear to be any information contained in this exchange except for information about subject motion. CONCLUSIONS This study showed that currents flow between the environment (earth) and a grounded human body; however, these currents are small (nanoamperes) and do not appear to contain information other than information about subject motion.
Collapse
|
15
|
Chevalier G, Sinatra ST, Oschman JL, Delany RM. Earthing (grounding) the human body reduces blood viscosity-a major factor in cardiovascular disease. J Altern Complement Med 2013; 19:102-10. [PMID: 22757749 PMCID: PMC3576907 DOI: 10.1089/acm.2011.0820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Emerging research is revealing that direct physical contact of the human body with the surface of the earth (grounding or earthing) has intriguing effects on human physiology and health, including beneficial effects on various cardiovascular risk factors. This study examined effects of 2 hours of grounding on the electrical charge (zeta potential) on red blood cells (RBCs) and the effects on the extent of RBC clumping. DESIGN/INTERVENTIONS SUBJECTS were grounded with conductive patches on the soles of their feet and palms of their hands. Wires connected the patches to a stainless-steel rod inserted in the earth outdoors. Small fingertip pinprick blood samples were placed on microscope slides and an electric field was applied to them. Electrophoretic mobility of the RBCs was determined by measuring terminal velocities of the cells in video recordings taken through a microscope. RBC aggregation was measured by counting the numbers of clustered cells in each sample. SETTINGS/LOCATION Each subject sat in a comfortable reclining chair in a soundproof experiment room with the lights dimmed or off. SUBJECTS Ten (10) healthy adult subjects were recruited by word-of-mouth. RESULTS Earthing or grounding increased zeta potentials in all samples by an average of 2.70 and significantly reduced RBC aggregation. CONCLUSIONS Grounding increases the surface charge on RBCs and thereby reduces blood viscosity and clumping. Grounding appears to be one of the simplest and yet most profound interventions for helping reduce cardiovascular risk and cardiovascular events.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gaétan Chevalier
- Developmental and Cell Biology Department, University of California at Irvine, Irvine, CA
| | - Stephen T. Sinatra
- Department of Medicine, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
Sokal K, Sokal P. Earthing the human organism influences bioelectrical processes. J Altern Complement Med 2012; 18:229-34. [PMID: 22420736 DOI: 10.1089/acm.2010.0683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This article describes interaction of the Earth's mass-electrolytic conductor on the electrical environment of human organism-aqueous environment and skeleton. In this environment, bioelectrical and bioenergetical processes take place. METHODS AND SUBJECTS Measurements of electric potential on tongue, teeth, nails, and in venous blood in subjects earthed and unearthed were conducted in Faraday's cage with the use of an electrometer placed outside the cage. Measurements were performed in subjects in lying position and in movements of standing up and lying down. RESULTS In the unearthed human organism in the lying position, electric potential measured in examined points is around 0 mV. Contact of the Earth by a copper conductor with a moistened surface of the human body evokes a rapid decrease of electrostatic potential on the body and in venous blood to the value of approximately -200 mV. This effect is immediate and general. Interruption of contact with the Earth causes a rapid return of the potential to its initial values in examined points. Changes in electric potential measured in venous blood and on mucosal membrane of the tongue reflect alterations in electric potential of the aqueous, electrical environment. Up-and-down movement of the insulated human organism causes transient changes in potential in the human electrical environment. During the same movement, values of potential in the electrical environment of an earthed human body remain constant. CONCLUSIONS These results indicate that up-and-down movement and the elimination of potentials in the electrical environment of the human organism by the Earth's mass may play a fundamental role in regulation of bioelectrical and bioenergetical processes. The Earth's electromagnetohydrodynamic potential is responsible for this phenomenon.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Karol Sokal
- Department of Ambulatory Cardiology, Military Clinical Hospital, Bydgoszcz, Poland.
| | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Earthing: health implications of reconnecting the human body to the Earth's surface electrons. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2012; 2012:291541. [PMID: 22291721 PMCID: PMC3265077 DOI: 10.1155/2012/291541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2011] [Accepted: 10/04/2011] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Environmental medicine generally addresses environmental factors with a negative impact on human health. However, emerging scientific research has revealed a surprisingly positive and overlooked environmental factor on health: direct physical contact with the vast supply of electrons on the surface of the Earth. Modern lifestyle separates humans from such contact. The research suggests that this disconnect may be a major contributor to physiological dysfunction and unwellness. Reconnection with the Earth's electrons has been found to promote intriguing physiological changes and subjective reports of well-being. Earthing (or grounding) refers to the discovery of benefits—including better sleep and reduced pain—from walking barefoot outside or sitting, working, or sleeping indoors connected to conductive systems that transfer the Earth's electrons from the ground into the body. This paper reviews the earthing research and the potential of earthing as a simple and easily accessed global modality of significant clinical importance.
Collapse
|
18
|
Mysterud I. Fysisk kontakt med jorden er viktig for helsen. TIDSSKRIFT FOR DEN NORSKE LEGEFORENING 2012; 132:270. [DOI: 10.4045/tidsskr.11.0885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
|
19
|
Sokal K, Sokal P. Earthing the human body influences physiologic processes. J Altern Complement Med 2011; 17:301-8. [PMID: 21469913 DOI: 10.1089/acm.2010.0687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study was designed to answer the question: Does the contact of the human organism with the Earth via a copper conductor affect physiologic processes? Subjects and experiments: Five (5) experiments are presented: experiment 1-effect of earthing on calcium-phosphate homeostasis and serum concentrations of iron (N = 84 participants); experiment 2-effect of earthing on serum concentrations of electrolytes (N = 28); experiment 3-effect of earthing on thyroid function (N = 12); experiment 4-effect of earthing on glucose concentration (N = 12); experiment 5-effect of earthing on immune response to vaccine (N = 32). Subjects were divided into two groups. One (1) group of people was earthed, while the second group remained without contact with the Earth. Blood and urine samples were examined. RESULTS Earthing of an electrically insulated human organism during night rest causes lowering of serum concentrations of iron, ionized calcium, inorganic phosphorus, and reduction of renal excretion of calcium and phosphorus. Earthing during night rest decreases free tri-iodothyronine and increases free thyroxine and thyroid-stimulating hormone. The continuous earthing of the human body decreases blood glucose in patients with diabetes. Earthing decreases sodium, potassium, magnesium, iron, total protein, and albumin concentrations while the levels of transferrin, ferritin, and globulins α1, α2, β, and γ increase. These results are statistically significant. CONCLUSIONS Earthing the human body influences human physiologic processes. This influence is observed during night relaxation and during physical activity. Effect of the earthing on calcium-phosphate homeostasis is the opposite of that which occurs in states of weightlessness. It also increases the activity of catabolic processes. It may be the primary factor regulating endocrine and nervous systems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Karol Sokal
- Department of Ambulatory Cardiology, Military Clinical Hospital, Powstancow Warszawy 5, Bydgoszcz, Poland.
| | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
|
21
|
|