What is far-infrared (FIR)?
If you like the warmth of the sun, you have to appreciate far-infrared light. The sun puts out electromagnetic energy that ranges from X-rays and gamma rays on one end, to radio waves on the other. Visible light is in the middle, with violet on the X-ray end and red on the radio end. Just beyond visible red is infrared light. The only difference between these forms of energy is the wavelength and frequency. Wave lengths are measured in microns (uj.Infrared light, which we experience as heat, runs from 0.76 – 1.5 ). Below 1.5 ) is near infrared; above 5.6 ) is FIR. Humans radiate close to 9 ) of infrared heat. Since we radiate heat at this wavelength, we absorb it at this wavelength. FIR lamps, and saunas, as therapy devices put out heat in the range-of 2 – 50 u.
How does solar light affect the body?
The body collects energy through the skin and eyes. The nerve ganglia all over our bodies convert the light into electrical impulses. These impulses travel to the brain where they trigger the hypothalamus gland which is part of the endocrine system. The endocrine system governs most autonomic (automatic) bodily functions such as blood pressure, body temperature, breathing, digestion, sexual function, moods, the immune system, the aging process and circadian rhythm. These metabolic effects are very similar to physical training and exercise. Solar light increases the ability of the lungs to absorb more vital oxygen and the blood’s capacity to carry and deliver it. FIR and Oriental Medicine Think of FIR as a type of moxibustion, without the smoke and aroma, but with a whole lot more. There are two basic types of therapy one can use: local treatment, using FIR lamps, and whole body treatments, using saunas. Because of the nature of the wavelengths, this type of heat penetrates much more deeply than other forms of heat. This deep penetration enables a more thorough and extensive stimulation of local circulation. With circulation comes blood and ki, bringing in nutrients and removing toxins.
How FIR ‘releases’ toxins
Since humans are bio-accumulators, numerous toxins that cannot be removed immediately after entry, are stored in our bodies. When toxic gases such as sulphur dioxide, carbon dioxide or toxic substances such as lead, mercury or chlorine meet large water molecules, they are encapsulated by the cluster of water. Where these toxins are accumulated, blood and ki circulation is blocked and cellular energy is impaired. When a 10 ) FIR wave is applied to these large water molecules containing toxins, the water begins to vibrate. This vibration reduces the ion bonds of the atoms which are holding together the molecules of water. As the breakdown of the water molecules occurs, encapsulated gases and other toxic materials are released.
FIR vs. Conventional Saunas
For full-body treatments, the FIR sauna is invaluable. Due to the type of wavelength, heat is absorbed directly by the body preferentially over the surrounding air. Because it relies on convection – heating the air – then conduction – air to skin – to heat the body, a FIR sauna operates at temperatures of 110 to 140 degrees F vs. 180 to 225 degrees F of a hot air sauna. The amount of sweat a FIR sauna can induce is 2 -3 times what a conventional sauna will induce without drying out the sinuses and causing undue stress on the cardiovascular system. The sweat from people using a conventional sauna was found to be 95 to 97% water while the sweat of those using a FIR sauna was 80 to 85% water with the non-water portion principally cholesterol, fat-soluble toxins, toxic heavy metals, sulfuric acid, sodium, ammonia and uric acid. This unusually high concentration of heavy metals and other fat-soluble toxins is not found in the sweat from normal exercise.
More benefits of FIR Sauna
Cardiovascular Conditioning: As the body tries to cool itself, there is a substantial increase in heart rate, cardiac output and metabolic rate. NASA in the early 1980’s concluded that FIR therapy would be an ideal way to stimulate cardiovascular function during long space missions.
Caloric Consumption: “A moderately conditioned person can easily sweat off 500 grams of sweat – the equivalent of running two to three miles. While the wt.~ht. of the water loss can be regained by rehydration with water, the calories will not be. The FDA has approved the use of FIR therapy for treatment of pain relief. Research lists numerous conditions that can be successfully treated, but is not limited to: arthritis; acne; cancer; soft-tissue injury; menstrual pain; eczema; upper respiratory infections; wound healing; Bell’s palsy; neurodermatitis; GI problems; cardiovascular diseases; hypertension; and ear, Lyme disease nose and throat disorders, chronic middle ear inflammation and infection. The success with hyperthermia infrared treatment on tumors is very exciting as well!