Discovery of infrared radiation
Types of heat transfer
Physical Properties
The range of IR waves favorable for humans

The English researcher Herschel W. in 1800, in the process of studying sunlight, found that in the Sun's rays, when they are decomposed into separate spectra using a prism outside the red visible spectrum, the thermometer readings increase. The thermometer placed in this area showed a higher temperature than the calibration thermometer. Later it was found that the properties of these rays are subject to the laws of optics, it turns out that they are of the same nature, with light radiation. Thus, infrared radiation was discovered.

Let's clarify how hot objects give off heat to the objects around them:
heat transfer(heat exchange between bodies in contact or through a separator),
convection(heat transfer by a coolant, liquid or gas from a heat source to colder objects)
thermal radiation(flux of electromagnetic radiation in a specific wavelength range, emitted by a substance based on its internal excess energy).

All objects of the material world around us are sources and at the same time absorbers of thermal radiation.
Thermal radiation, which is based on infrared rays, is a stream of electromagnetic rays that satisfy the laws of optics and are of the same nature as light radiation. The IR beam is located between the red light perceived by a person (0.7 microns) and short-wave radio emission (1 - 2 mm). In addition, the IR region of the spectrum is divided into short-wave (0.7 - 2 microns), medium-wave (from 2 to 5.1 microns), longwave(5.1 - 200 µm). Infrared rays emit all substances liquid and solid, while the wavelength of the emitted wave depends on the temperature of the substance. At higher temperatures, the wavelength emitted by the substance is shorter, but the intensity of the radiation is greater.

In the range of long-wave radiation (from 9 to 11 microns) is the most favorable thermal radiation for humans. Long-wave emitters have a lower radiation surface temperature, they are characterized by dark ones - at a low surface temperature they do not glow (up to 300 ° C). Medium-wave emitters with a higher surface temperature are characterized as gray, with a maximum body temperature they emit short waves, they are called white or light.

Confirmation by Soviet scientists

Physical properties of infrared radiation

For infrared rays, there are a number of differences from the optical properties of visible light. (transparency, reflectance, refractive index) For example, infrared radiation having a wavelength of more than 1 micron, absorbed by water in a layer of 1-2 cm, therefore water in some cases is used as a heat-shielding barrier. The silicon sheet is opaque in the visible region, but transparent in the infrared. A number of metals have reflex qualities which are higher for infrared radiation than for light perceived by a person, in addition, their properties are significantly improved with an increase in the radiation wavelength index. Namely, the reflection index of Al, Au, Ag at a wavelength of about 10 μm approaches 98%. Given these properties of materials, they are used in the manufacture of infrared equipment. Materials that are transparent to infrared rays - as emitters of infrared radiation (quartz, ceramics), materials with a high ability to reflect rays - as reflectors that allow focusing infrared radiation in the right direction (mainly aluminum).

It is also important to know about the absorption and scattering properties of infrared radiation. Infrared rays travel through the air almost unhindered. Namely, the molecules of nitrogen and oxygen by themselves do not absorb infrared rays, but only slightly scatter, reducing the intensity. Water vapor, ozone, carbon dioxide, and other impurities in the air absorb infrared radiation: water vapor - in almost the entire infrared region of the spectrum, carbon dioxide - in the middle part of the infrared region. The presence in the air of small particles - dust, smoke, small drops of liquids leads to a weakening of the strength of infrared radiation as a result of its scattering on these particles.

Infrared radiation is a natural type of radiation. Every person is exposed to it daily. A huge part of the energy of the Sun comes to our planet in the form of infrared rays. However, in the modern world there are many devices that use infrared radiation. It can affect the human body in various ways. It largely depends on the type and purpose of using these same devices.

What it is

Infrared radiation, or IR rays, is a type of electromagnetic radiation that occupies the spectral region from red visible light (which is characterized by a wavelength of 0.74 microns) to short-wave radio radiation (with a wavelength of 1-2 mm). This is a fairly large region of the spectrum, so it is further subdivided into three regions:

• near (0.74 - 2.5 microns);
• medium (2.5 - 50 microns);
• far (50-2000 microns).

Discovery history

In 1800, a scientist from England, W. Herschel, made the observation that in the invisible part of the solar spectrum (outside the red light), the temperature of the thermometer rises. Subsequently, the subordination of infrared radiation to the laws of optics was proved and a conclusion was made about its relationship with visible light.

Thanks to the work of the Soviet physicist A. A. Glagoleva-Arkadyeva, who received radio waves with λ = 80 μm (IR range) in 1923, the existence of a continuous transition from visible radiation to IR radiation and radio waves was experimentally proven. Thus, a conclusion was made about their common electromagnetic nature.

Almost everything in nature is capable of emitting wavelengths corresponding to the infrared spectrum, which means that the human body is no exception. We all know that everything around is made up of atoms and ions, even humans. And these excited particles are capable of emitting. They can pass into an excited state under the influence of various factors, for example, electrical discharges or when heated. So, in the emission spectrum of the flame of a gas stove there is a band with λ=2.7 µm from water molecules and with λ=4.2 µm from carbon dioxide.

IR waves in everyday life, science and industry

Using certain devices at home and at work, we rarely ask ourselves about the effect of infrared radiation on the human body. Meanwhile, infrared heaters are quite popular today. Their fundamental difference from oil radiators and convectors is the ability to heat not the air itself directly, but all objects in the room. That is, furniture, floors and walls are heated first, and then they give off their heat to the atmosphere. At the same time, infrared radiation also has an effect on organisms - a person and his pets.

IR rays are also widely used in data transmission and remote control. Many mobile phones have infrared ports for exchanging files between them. And all remotes from air conditioners, music centers, TVs, some controlled children's toys also use electromagnetic rays in the infrared range.

The use of infrared rays in the army and astronautics

The most important infrared rays are for the aerospace and military industries. On the basis of photocathodes that are sensitive to infrared radiation (up to 1.3 microns), are created (various binoculars, sights, etc.). They allow, while simultaneously irradiating objects with infrared radiation, to aim or observe in absolute darkness.

Thanks to the highly sensitive receivers of infrared rays created, the production of homing missiles became possible. Sensors in their head react to the IR radiation of the target, which is usually warmer than the environment, and guide the missile to the target. The detection of heated parts of ships, aircraft, tanks with the help of heat direction finders is based on the same principle.

IR locators and rangefinders can detect various objects in complete darkness and measure the distance to them. Special devices - which emit in the infrared region, are used for space and long-range terrestrial communications.

Infrared radiation in scientific activity

One of the most common is the study of emission and absorption spectra in the IR region. It is used in the study of the features of the electron shells of atoms, to determine the structures of various molecules, and in addition, in the qualitative and quantitative analysis of mixtures of various substances.

Due to differences in the coefficients of scattering, transmission and reflection of bodies in visible and IR rays, photographs taken under different conditions are somewhat different. Infrared images often show more detail. Such images are widely used in astronomy.

Studying the effect of infrared rays on the body

The first scientific data on the effect of infrared radiation on the human body date back to the 1960s. The author of the research is the Japanese doctor Tadashi Ishikawa. In the course of his experiments, he was able to establish that infrared rays tend to penetrate deep into the human body. At the same time, thermoregulation processes occur, similar to the reaction to being in a sauna. However, sweating begins at a lower ambient temperature (it is about 50 ° C), and the heating of the internal organs occurs much deeper.

During such heating, blood circulation is increased, the vessels of the respiratory organs, subcutaneous tissue and skin expand. However, prolonged exposure to infrared radiation on a person can cause heat stroke, and strong infrared radiation leads to burns of varying degrees.

IR protection

There is a small list of measures aimed at reducing the risk of exposure to infrared radiation on the human body:

1. Decreased radiation intensity. It is achieved through the selection of the appropriate technological equipment, the timely replacement of the obsolete, as well as its rational layout.
2. Removal of workers from the source of radiation. If the production line allows, remote control of it should be preferred.
3. Installation of protective screens on the source or workplace. Such fences can be arranged in two ways to reduce the effect of infrared radiation on the human body. In the first case, they must reflect electromagnetic waves, and in the second case, they must delay them and convert the radiation energy into thermal energy, followed by its removal. Due to the fact that protective screens should not deprive specialists of the opportunity to monitor the processes taking place in the production, they can be made transparent or translucent. For this, silicate or quartz glasses, as well as metal meshes and chains, are chosen as materials.
4. Thermal insulation or cooling of hot surfaces. The main purpose of thermal insulation is to reduce the risk of burns to workers.
5. Personal protective equipment(various overalls, glasses with built-in light filters, shields).
6. Preventive actions. If in the course of the above actions the level of exposure to infrared radiation on the body remains high enough, then an appropriate mode of work and rest should be selected.

Benefits for the human body

Infrared radiation affecting the human body leads to an improvement in blood circulation due to vasodilation, better saturation of organs and tissues with oxygen. In addition, an increase in body temperature has an analgesic effect due to the effect of rays on the nerve endings in the skin.

It has been noticed that surgical operations performed under the influence of infrared radiation have a number of advantages:

• somewhat easier to tolerate pain after surgery;
• faster cell regeneration;
• The influence of infrared radiation on a person makes it possible to avoid cooling of internal organs in the case of an operation on open cavities, which reduces the risk of shock.

In patients with burns, infrared radiation creates the possibility of removing necrosis, as well as performing autoplasty at an earlier stage. In addition, the duration of fever is reduced, anemia and hypoproteinemia are less pronounced, and the frequency of complications is reduced.

It has been proven that IR radiation can weaken the effect of some pesticides by increasing nonspecific immunity. Many of us know about the treatment of rhinitis and some other manifestations of the common cold with blue IR lamps.

Harm to humans

It is worth noting that the harm from infrared radiation for the human body can also be very significant. The most obvious and common cases are skin burns and dermatitis. They can occur either with too long exposure to weak waves of the infrared spectrum, or during intense irradiation. If we talk about medical procedures, then rarely, but still, heat strokes, asthenia and exacerbation of pain occur with improper treatment.

Eye burns are one of the modern problems. The most dangerous for them are IR rays with wavelengths in the range of 0.76-1.5 microns. Under their influence, the lens and aqueous humor are heated, which can lead to various disorders. One of the most common side effects is photophobia. This should be remembered by children playing with laser pointers, and welders who neglect personal protective equipment.

IR rays in medicine

Treatment with infrared radiation is local and general. In the first case, a local action is carried out on a certain part of the body, and in the second, the entire body is exposed to the action of the rays. The course of treatment depends on the disease and can range from 5 to 20 sessions of 15-30 minutes. When carrying out procedures, a prerequisite is the use of protective equipment. To maintain eye health, special cardboard pads or glasses are used.

After the first procedure, redness with indistinct boundaries appears on the surface of the skin, passing in about an hour.

The action of IR emitters

With the availability of many medical devices, people purchase them for individual use. However, it must be remembered that such devices must meet special requirements and be used in compliance with safety regulations. But most importantly, it is important to understand that, like any medical device, infrared wave emitters cannot be used for a number of diseases.

The effect of infrared radiation on the human body

Wavelength, µm	Useful action
9.5 µm	Immunocorrective action in immunodeficiency states caused by starvation, carbon tetrachloride poisoning, the use of immunosuppressants. It leads to the restoration of normal parameters of the cellular link of immunity.
16.25 µm	Antioxidant action. It is carried out due to the formation of free radicals from superoxides and hydroperoxides, and their recombination.
8.2 and 6.4 µm	Antibacterial action and normalization of the intestinal microflora due to the influence on the synthesis of prostaglandin hormones, leading to an immunomodulating effect.
22.5 µm	It leads to the transfer of many insoluble compounds, such as blood clots and atherosclerotic plaques, into a soluble state, allowing them to be removed from the body.

Therefore, a qualified specialist, an experienced doctor should select a course of therapy. Depending on the length of the emitted infrared waves, the devices can be used for different purposes.

Infrared (IR) radiation or IR waves is part of the energy emitted by any object whose temperature exceeds -27.3 degrees Celsius, that is, any object on Earth. A person cannot see this radiation, but always perceives it as ordinary heat. Therefore, IR radiation is also called thermal radiation or thermal waves.
The most famous natural sources of heat waves are the Sun, the most powerful source, and Man himself. The most common artificial sources of heat waves are all kinds of electric and ceramic heaters, electric stoves, ovens, radiators, stoves, etc.

Infrared rays were discovered in 1800 by the English physicist William Herschel. It has been proven that infrared radiation obeys the laws of optics and is therefore of the same nature as visible light. In 1923, the Soviet physicist Arkadyeva received radio waves with a wavelength of approximately 80 microns, that is, corresponding to the infrared wavelength range. Thus, it was experimentally proved that there is a continuous transition from visible radiation to infrared radiation and radio waves and, therefore, all of them are of an electromagnetic nature, and the boundaries between adjacent sections of the spectrum are very arbitrary, and in some cases adjacent sections "cross" each other.

The most important characteristics of heat waves in terms of physiological effects on humans are the wavelength (frequency) or wavelength range and the intensity of the radiation. The wavelength of any radiation is measured in micrometers (1 micrometer or micron is one millionth of a meter). Radiation intensity is measured as the energy flux density in watts (W) per square meter. m of the surface area radiating, or on which the energy flux falls. If the visible region occupies the region from 0.4 to 0.75 μm, then the IR region occupies the wavelength region from 0.76 to 100 μm. That is, it is more than 100 times wider than the visible light region. I must say that 80% of the radiation energy of the Sun consists of infrared rays. Due to its wide range, the IR region is divided into three parts - the near IR region (0.75 - 1.5 μm), the mid-IR region (1.5 - 5.6 μm) and the long-wave IR region (approximately 4 - 100 μm).

Infrared rays are absolutely safe for the human body, unlike x-rays, ultraviolet or microwaves (these are completely different areas of the electromagnetic spectrum). For example, sunbathing in the IR cabin is not allowed. Dark skin is a protective reaction of the body to the extremely harmful effects of ultraviolet rays, which kill all living things and can cause skin cancer. The infrared radiation from our cabins, on the contrary, is completely harmless and, moreover, it is the only antidote (antidote) against the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation.

Infrared waves are absolutely harmless to humans, unless the intensity of infrared radiation is too high - no more than 100 watts per square meter. m. Sit close to the fire and you will feel the burn, move away and the same fire will warm you pleasantly.

Each range of infrared waves has its own penetrating abilities through the atmosphere (air) and through human skin. Infrared waves in the far-infrared range pass through the air with little or no heating. And they can also penetrate deeply directly into the human body.

In the infrared spectrum there is a region with wavelengths of approximately 6 to 15 microns (the so-called long-wavelength part of the infrared range), which has a truly unique beneficial effect on the human body. This part of the infrared radiation corresponds to the radiation of the human body itself with a maximum at a wavelength of 9.8 microns. Therefore, our body perceives any external radiation with such wavelengths as “its own”.

By influencing the human body in the long-wavelength part of the infrared range, one can obtain a phenomenon called "resonant absorption", in which external energy will be actively absorbed by the body. As a result of this impact, the potential energy of the body cell increases, and unbound water leaves it, the activity of specific cellular structures increases, the level of immunoglobulins increases, the activity of enzymes and estrogens increases, and other biochemical reactions occur. This applies to all types of body cells and blood. It is with these waves that future mothers irradiate the fetus from its conception to birth.

Modern research in the field of biotechnology has shown that it is these long thermal (IR) waves that are of exceptional importance in the development of all life forms on Earth. For this reason they are also called biogenetic rays or rays of life. Sea turtles lay their eggs on sandy beaches and bury them in the sand. Under the influence of long-wave thermal radiation, which is part of the sun's rays (namely, only it reaches the eggs), after a while, small turtles appear. Chickens and many other birds incubate their eggs, using their body heat in the process of incubation until the birth of their offspring. In fact, they use the long-wave infrared radiation of their body to mature the egg, thus giving life to offspring. In this simple process of reproduction, the eggs of sea turtles, chickens, and other birds develop largely through exposure to long-wave infrared radiation. This effect causes protein and yolk to form into bones, blood cells, the nervous system, etc. This is why the effect of long-wave infrared radiation is so huge for the existence of life on Earth.

Our body, as mentioned above, itself emits long infrared waves, but it also needs a constant supply of long-wave heat. If this radiation begins to decrease or there is no constant supply of it to the human body, then the body is attacked by various diseases, the person quickly ages against the background of a general deterioration in well-being. Since the constant absorption of long-wave heat contributes to a surge of strength and health of our body, a person intuitively looks for its sources, first of all, from Mother Nature and finds it by sunbathing, sitting by the fire, lying on an old Russian stove, etc. And if there is no opportunity or time to do this, then visits to the infrared cabin will come to the rescue.

In parallel with Dr. Ishikawa, studies of the properties of infrared cabins were carried out by scientific and medical laboratories in Japan, Korea, China and the USA. As a result of joint efforts, an effective therapeutic effect has been reliably confirmed in the following areas:

Body detoxification

Many of the diseases faced by modern society originate from an unfavorable environment. Diseases virtually unknown 20 years ago, such as chronic fatigue syndrome, now exist in epidemic proportions and continue to grow every year. Children are the most likely victims of environmental change.

Many people wonder: why do they feel exhausted, why does their head seem “in a fog”, why do they constantly live in pain? The concentration of accumulated toxic substances in the body may be the primary factor in the poor health of millions of people. Heavy metals, pesticides, fuel combustion products and other chemical elements can be found in significant amounts in the body of virtually every person on our planet.

Recent studies have shown that heating the body in infrared saunas stimulates cells to excrete toxic substances from the body through sweat and urine, including lead and mercury. Thus, infrared saunas can be considered as one of the elements (along with the diet) of the program of deep cleansing of the body.

Cleansing the body of toxins is a prerequisite for preventing various diseases and health disorders. Along with healthy eating, fasting and various diets, the infrared system offers a wide range of proven options that go beyond conventional medicine. Regular sessions in the infrared cabin are effective, in addition, easy to use and do not require large financial costs.

The greatest toxic danger is represented by fats and cholesterol that enter the body with food. The composition of sweat released during a session in an infrared cabin includes water, fats, cholesterol and heavy metals. The sweat of people using an infrared cabin has been studied and compared to that produced in a conventional sauna. The following results are obtained:

Released substance	Regular sauna/bath	IR sauna
Other substances

After examining sweat released during a session in an infrared cabin, the following components of other substances were established: lead 84 mg, cadmium 6.2 mg, nickel 1.2 mg, copper 0.11 mg, sodium 0.84 g (Green hospital 1983 ).

After comparing the amount of sweat produced and the ability to remove harmful substances in a conventional sauna and an infrared cabin, it was found that during a session in an infrared cabin, twice as much sweat and three times as much other substances are released, which means that the ability of an infrared cabin to remove harmful substances six times the capacity of a conventional sauna. According to nutritionists, toxic substances that the body is not able to remove through certain organs accumulate in adipose tissue. Dr. Ishikawa (Japan) claims that a temperature of at least 450C is required for the breakdown of adipose tissue. The thermal effect of infrared radiation energy makes it possible to obtain this temperature in adipose tissue without excessive stress on the cardiovascular system, so the concentration of toxic substances released is much higher (compared to a conventional sauna).

Therefore, regular sessions of infrared radiation are the best way to remove harmful substances from the body. This refers not only to toxic substances that enter the body with food, but also alcohol and nicotine. Infrared sauna, used along with drugs that remove harmful substances, in the presence of problems associated with the use of alcohol and nicotine, makes it possible to independently create a body cleansing program that does not require large expenses and minimally affects the patient's normal rhythm of work or other activities.

With disorders of the cardiovascular activity

Regular intake of infrared treatments helps to reduce the level of cholesterol in the blood, and this, in turn, significantly reduces the risk of heart disease (heart attack, coronary artery disease, etc.), and also reduces high blood pressure. As an additional effect, it can be noted that in the process of vasodilation, the muscles responsible for this process are trained, as a result, the walls of the vessels become more mobile and elastic. Reduces the negative effects of varicose veins.

kidney disease

Powerful sweating frees the body from toxins and waste, reducing the burden on the kidneys. This helps to reduce problems associated with their malfunction, such as swollen ankles, etc.

Circulatory disorders

Heating the body with infrared waves dilates the blood vessels, stimulating the improvement of blood circulation, especially in the peripheral areas and capillaries. Regular sessions turn out to be an effective means of eliminating such diseases as, for example, insufficient blood circulation in the extremities ("cold feet" characteristic of the elderly).

Muscles and joints

Infrared waves have a proven positive effect on muscles and joints, eliminating problems such as cramps, arthritic pain, especially in the shoulders and upper shoulder girdle, muscle pain, menstrual pain, rheumatism, sciatica and pain in various organs. Infrared heat helps fight stiff limbs. When heated in an infrared cabin, the mobility of the fingers increases by 20%. Similar is the reaction of other stiff joints and connective tissue.

Colds

Taking procedures in infrared cabins increases the body's resistance to infections and inhibits the process of virus reproduction. Therefore, regular sessions not only avoid colds, but can also help fight these diseases as soon as they start, reducing recovery time. In addition, diseases are cured much more effectively for which heating of the body is traditionally used - bronchitis, pneumonia, runny nose, etc.

Ear, throat, nose

Infrared radiation can be used as a therapeutic tool for chronic inflammation of the middle ear and throat, to combat nosebleeds.

Overweight problems

The use of an infrared cabin leads to an increase in energy consumption, including perspiration, which burns calories (from 900 to 2400 per session). Experience shows that in 30 minutes spent in the cabin, a person loses from 0.3 to 1.2 kg of weight. Therefore, regular cab use can help balance the weight.

Cellulite

Cellulite is made up of water, fat and waste products produced by the body's natural processes. Cellulite is deposited in layers under the skin, leading to noticeable cosmetic problems. Deep penetration of infrared heat helps break down cellulite and then expel as sweat.

Skin burns

Infrared radiation has been proven to reduce the pain of skin burns and may help speed up the process of new skin formation.

Disorders of the nervous system

Sessions in the infrared cabin have a calming effect on the nervous system, eliminating insomnia, stress, nervousness, nervous tics.

The immune system

During a session in the IR cabin, the content of hemoglobin in the blood increases, as well as erythrocytes, which supply oxygen to the organs. The work of the immune system is stabilized, the overall resistance of the body to the adverse effects of the external environment increases, the metabolism stabilizes, anemia decreases, and the work of body cells improves. Infrared waves compensate for the adverse effects of ultraviolet rays and are the only antidote for sunburn.

Injury and postoperative period

The human body is a self-healing system. The process of recovery after mechanical damage consists of 2 stages: the delivery of "building materials" to the place of "repair" of damaged areas and the process of "repair" itself. Due to the acceleration of metabolic metabolism, the time of both stages is significantly reduced, which leads to accelerated healing of wounds, bruises, injuries, fractures, resorption of hematomas. The rehabilitation period after surgical operations (except for cases of implantation of artificial materials) and injuries is significantly reduced.

Digestive disorders

Eliminates a number of digestive disorders, reduces flatulence, cholecystitis, stimulates the work of the large intestine.

Pain reduction

With a decrease in muscle tension, sciatica pains decrease; heat helps fight this circulus virtuosus. Heat reduces pain both in the nerve roots and in nearby tissues. In dental studies, this phenomenon is referred to as an anesthetic. Heat stimulates a decrease in the production of endorphins.

List of problems and diseases that can be eliminated by regular use of penetrating infrared radiation:

High / low blood pressure	Sleep disorders	Overweight problems
Circulatory disorders	Rheumatism and arthritis	Skin burns
Cardiovascular diseases	Inflammation of the joints	convulsions
kidney failure	Cellulite	back pain
Cleansing the body of toxins and toxins		stomach pain
Chronic muscle pain	Bronchitis	Digestive disorders
Improvement of the body		Diseases of the ear, throat, nose
Colds	Pneumonia	Skin diseases
Weakness and exhaustion of the body		lumbar pain

Far infrared radiation normalizes the metabolic process and eliminates the cause of the disease, and not just its symptoms. Work on the study of the application of penetrating far infrared radiation continues throughout the world.

A number of scientific laboratories (Dr. Masao Nakamura "O&P Medical Clinic", Dr. Mikkel Aland "Infrared Therapy Researches", etc.) report the effects obtained during the studies, which have not yet received statistical confirmation:

memory improvement

activation of brain cells

destruction of certain types of hepatitis virus

Neutralization of the harmful effects of electromagnetic fields

cure for dystrophy

reduction of hemorrhoids

increase in the amount of insulin produced in diabetic patients

Neutralization of the consequences of radioactive exposure

Significant improvement and reduction of pain in acute and chronic arthritis

softening, and in some cases resorption of colloidal scars

treatment of liver cirrhosis

Infrared heat has recently been used in cancer therapy. This still new method is in the experimental stage. American scientists are of the opinion that, if applied correctly, this method over time can become a promising adjunct in the treatment of cancer and in reducing pain. In the practice of treating various cancers, hyperthermia therapy is treated as an effective method of treating cancer. Due to deep penetration, a similar hyperthermic effect is also characteristic of infrared radiation systems. The method of deep penetration of infrared waves can be compared with the body's response to a feverish state. Thanks to this reaction, the body acquires the ability to fight bacteria and viruses, slow down the rate of their reproduction and at the same time increase the number of white blood cells that fight infectious diseases. As far back as 2000 years ago, the doctor Paemendides said: "Give me the opportunity to cause a fever, and I will cure any disease." An interesting fact: marathon runners practically do not get cancer, because running 30-40 km daily in training, athletes sweat profusely and thereby systematically effectively get rid of heavy metal salts and other carcinogens, preventing them from accumulating in the body. The same effect can be achieved by taking daily procedures in the infrared cabin.

cosmetic effects

Activation of blood circulation in the skin under the influence of penetrating infrared radiation leads to the expansion and cleansing of the skin pores. Dead cells are removed, the skin becomes smooth, firm and elastic. As a result of profuse sweating, even those pores that have not functioned for many years open up.

The skin is cleaned, necessary for cosmetic procedures. A number of skin diseases are eliminated: acne, pimples, nettle rash, dandruff. The complexion improves, wrinkles are smoothed, the skin looks younger. Scars and scars on the skin, even colloid ones, soften, and in some cases dissolve. Reduces the level of unpleasant odors emitted by the skin. Eczema and, according to unconfirmed reports, skin ulcers are healed.

Cellulite is made up of water, fat and waste products produced by the body's natural processes. Cellulite is deposited in layers under the skin, leading to noticeable cosmetic problems. Deep penetration of infrared heat helps break down cellulite and then expel as sweat. The infrared cabin is a great addition to any anti-cellulite program.

Remarkable progress in the weight loss program. The very process of sweating requires a significant amount of energy from the human body. According to calculations, a half-hour session allows you to "burn" from 900 to 2400 calories, which is comparable to a nakm run. Therefore, regular cab use can help balance the weight. Direct heating of the muscles in the infrared cabin allows you to do without warming ointments during the massage.

Psychological action

Along with the therapeutic effect of infrared energy on the human body, it is necessary to especially note the psychological effect. Usually, when describing infrared saunas, little attention is paid to this factor, however, it plays an important role in the prevention of diseases.

A visit to a Russian bath or a Finnish sauna is stressful for the body and the nervous system as a whole. The need to be in a hot atmosphere and high humidity causes a sharp and strong excitation of the human nervous system. The human body is forced to mobilize significant resources to compensate for the influence of the external environment, therefore, after taking procedures in traditional baths or saunas, we feel a breakdown.

The complete opposite in this regard is the infrared sauna, the mild atmosphere of which has a positive effect on the psychological state of a person, relieves tension, creates a feeling of relaxation and comfort of the body. A visit to the infrared sauna gives pleasant sensations and a sense of pleasure, which ultimately also has a preventive and therapeutic effect.

For athletes - amateurs and professionals

Due to their unique effect on the human body, infrared cabins are indispensable for training both amateur athletes and professionals:

1. Due to the direct penetration of infrared rays into the body and increased peripheral circulation, there is an abundant blood flow to the muscles or "warming up" of the muscles, which allows you to start training or competitions without the preliminary expenditure of muscle energy.

2. A sharp expansion of blood and lymphatic vessels leads to a physical "squeezing out" of subcutaneous cellulite deposits, which allows martial arts experts to reduce weight on the eve of the competition much more efficiently than in a steam bath and without causing harm to health. In addition, the very process of sweating requires a significant amount of energy from the human body. According to calculations, a half-hour session allows you to "burn" from 900 to 2400 calories, which is comparable to a nakm run.

Calories a person burns in 30 minutes of exercise
Kind of sport................................................ ...... Kcal
Marathon running .............................................593
Swimming................................................. ........300
Jogging................................................ .....300
Tennis................................................. ............265
Cycling ...............................................225
Golf................................................. .............150
Walking................................................. ...........150
Bowling................................................. ..........120
______________________________________________
Visiting the infrared sauna ..........................................

3. A session in the infrared cabin allows for a short time in large quantities to remove lactic acid accumulated during training from the muscles. The effect of "overtraining" and "clogging" of muscles quickly disappears. Muscles become elastic, saturated with oxygen and nutrients, ideally prepared for competitions.

4. A sharp increase in blood flow in the vessels helps to accelerate the metabolic exchange in the body, which leads to an increase in muscle mass, as a result of training, in a shorter period. This allows bodybuilders to more effectively and easily shape the muscular corset of their body.

5. Procedures in the infrared cabin, contributing to an increase in the volume of essential substances entering the tissues, can accelerate the healing of injuries, bruises, fractures, sprains, and resorption of hematomas.

6. Helps prevent colds when exercising outdoors in bad weather.

7. Actively removes toxins from the body without the use of medicines.

8. Allows you to shorten the rehabilitation period after the competition.

9. Allows you to shift the focus of health training from medication to physiotherapy.

10. Effectively relieves pain from injuries, eliminates spasmodic muscle contractions (convulsions).

11. An abundant supply of oxygen to tissues gives the same effect as "blood doping", but is achieved naturally and is not prohibited for use.

For businessmen

Business people are very busy people. As a rule, their working day is scheduled by the minute, and it is difficult to carve out even half an hour to take care of their health ...

But carving out this time is simply necessary, otherwise you can doom yourself to the fate of working only for medicines. Health is, perhaps, the only thing that belongs only to us, and that which depends only on us. A wise and prudent person will always find an opportunity to revise his schedule and allocate time for wellness classes, which includes visiting the infrared sauna. Moreover, the sauna is not only always modern, but also constantly evolving. You need to take care of your health regularly, because regularity is important in everything. Spontaneity brings only short-term successes.

The human body has a limit - it simply can not stand it anymore. So, for example, in a meal - it is better to eat a little, but several times, than to overeat for dinner. The principle of regularity is the greatest principle. And now you have the opportunity to visit the sauna as often and regularly as you take a shower, because the infrared sauna will not take you much time, and it is absolutely safe for frequent visits. Wellness activities should be part of a person's life, like brushing your teeth or showering in the morning.

Health activities are the same measure of success and determination, as well as achievements in business or sports, because this is the same work. After all, the human body, like any mechanism, produces energy only during operation. According to experts, any person should take cardio exercises at least 3 times a week, that is, train their cardiovascular system. The tasks that many put at the forefront, for example, losing weight, are actually particular. But the heart and everything connected with it should always be in excellent shape.

Infrared sauna is the best way to help you at the same time, and stabilize the weight and strengthen the cardiovascular system. Modern society is characterized by the presence of many goals that people strive to achieve in a short time. Therefore, today it is especially popular to combine two or more different events in time.

So, for example, many people have breakfast while reading newspapers, have lunch while listening to music, and have dinner without looking up from the TV screen, and this has imperceptibly become a daily routine. These phenomena are observed more and more often. Because time is money, we don't have the luxury of relaxing by doing nothing, but we also don't have the right to take a break while doing business. Therefore, it is desirable that all possible means for rest, relaxation and at the same time strengthening the body and spirit are at our fingertips, namely: shower, music, refreshing drinks, as well as heat - a small infrared sauna.

Let's say you only have 30 minutes left. until the next negotiations, and you are already "survived like a lemon." How to quickly restore strength and bring yourself to working condition? Very simple. Plug in the infrared sauna you purchased, set the timer for 20 minutes, and while the cabin is heating up, pour yourself a glass of juice, turn on your favorite music quietly, take a shower and go into the finished sauna. Being in the infrared sauna for 10-15 minutes, try not to think about business. Just listen to music, drink juice, inhale the smell of natural wood. The infrared sauna will do the rest:
- it will relax your tense muscles - it will invigorate your body;
- normalizes pressure;
- will remove slags;
- heals the skin;
- strengthens the cardiovascular system;
- relieves accumulated stress - invigorates the spirit.

You have 10 more minutes left. Take a warm shower, drink a glass of tonic. You will feel how you will have a "second wind". After the IR sauna, there is no feeling of heaviness in the body, on the contrary, you will feel uplifted and cheerful. Everything! You are ready to negotiate.

Another variant. Let's say you don't even have 30 minutes. free time before meeting with partners. Businessmen, as a rule, due to the eternal lack of time, combine business with pleasure, inviting business partners to the sauna. Business people can get not only pleasure from visiting the sauna, but also benefit - to hold business negotiations here, to conclude an important contract. Connoisseurs say that in a relaxed atmosphere it is much easier to find mutual understanding.

“Imagine, we are sitting in front of each other in the same sheets, without gold bracelets, cell phones and talking on an equal footing. How many times in the sauna I managed to bring down the price and persuade the client to my side,” businessman Vladimir reveals the secret of his success.

"In the sauna, anger dissipates," says Finnish folk wisdom. Every person dreams that any stressful day does not touch his strong nerves. It has been confirmed that the sauna has a positive effect on the autonomous nervous system, which is not regulated by our will. It has also been convincingly proven that the sauna procedure improves sleep: the deep sleep phase comes on faster and lasts longer, providing a good rest, and the light sleep phase is shortened. This is a very important aspect, because sleep is the main means of restoring physical and mental health. A person spends more than a third of his life in sleep. At the same time, approximately 1/3 of humanity suffers from insomnia or sleep disorders that interfere with rest. In these cases, the sauna acts as a natural sleep aid. Take an infrared sauna at night.

For women

The infrared sauna process is of particular importance for women. During menstruation, an infrared sauna can relieve cramping pains by relaxing and removing excess water caused by soda retention. For the same reasons, infrared sauna has a beneficial effect on healthy pregnant women. Although, in cases of toxicosis or complicated pregnancy, it is necessary to consult a doctor before taking the procedure. Warming up after childbirth eases muscle pain, cleanses the body, and gives the new mother the much-needed privacy. The infrared sauna should be kept at a low temperature until the woman recovers from childbirth.

Theoretically, it is believed that menstruation is more than just the destruction of the uterine lining; it is a cleansing cycle of the whole organism. After a woman's reproductive cycle is over, the body needs to find other ways to cleanse itself of accumulated toxins. And while this adaptation of the body lasts, unpleasant symptoms of menopause will be felt. Visiting the infrared sauna, as the main way to eliminate toxins, reduces some of the painful symptoms.

Since 2001, and to this day, the specialist continues to treat his patients with IR sauna - candidate of medical sciences, doctor of the highest category, head. Department of Rehabilitation of the Kislovodsk Medical and Sports Dispensary (VFD) Anatoly Viktorovich Chmyrev. He manages patients with cardiovascular diseases and frequent comorbidities - overweight, diseases of the musculoskeletal system (osteochondrosis, arthrosis), metabolic disorders, hypercholesterolemia, gout, diseases of the kidneys, bronchi.

Having once experienced the influence of an IR sauna on himself, and having received excellent results, he became a fan (in the best sense of the word) of this wonderful invention for many years.

Doctors of the Center for Prostatology of the Russian Academy of Natural Sciences recommended that their patients use the infrared cabin for preventive and therapeutic purposes. All patients who underwent the procedures noted a general improvement in well-being, a weakening of colds, or a faster recovery. People with cardiovascular diseases noted the normalization of blood pressure levels, patients with digestive system disorders - a decrease in flatulence and an improvement in bowel function.

Patients who actively visit the gym noticed a decrease or disappearance of pain in the joints and muscles, faster healing of abrasions, bruises, and sprains. Direct heating of the muscles in the infrared sauna allows you to do without warming ointments during the massage.

Doctors of the "Center" noted that in patients with urological diseases, the number of daytime and nighttime urination decreased. Patients with a variety of urological pathologies felt an improvement in their condition. Most men noted an increase in spontaneous erections, an improvement in potency.

A good effect of the procedures in the infrared sauna was also noticed during the recovery period, especially after surgical interventions. Both doctors and patients noted faster wound healing and a shorter rehabilitation period. In some cases, there was a traceless healing of wounds and scars, the disappearance of small scars, softening and reduction of old scars on the skin.

Many women observed in the "Prostatology Center" noted that after sessions in the infrared sauna, their complexion improved significantly, the skin on the body became smoother and more elastic. Patients with cellulite paid particular attention to these changes. In some cases, acne, pimples, dandruff disappeared, eczema healed. Several patients noted a noticeable weight loss after 2-3 sessions.

All patients of the Prostatology Center who participated in the study noted the absence of unpleasant sensations that sometimes occur when visiting a regular sauna or bath. Physiological and hygienic assessment of the infrared sauna was carried out at the Research Institute of Occupational Medicine of the Russian Academy of Medical Sciences.
The parameters of thermal irradiation were measured at six points, the total number of measurements was "54". Thermal exposure at each point was measured three times. For measurements, a portable RAT-1P energy irradiance radiometer was used. The air temperature was monitored with an Asseman psychometer in the center of the cockpit. The temperature of the inner surfaces of the fences (walls) was measured with an MT-57 microthermometer. The assessment of the thermal state of a person was carried out with the participation of two subjects (a man and a woman) who were in the IR cabin in a sitting position for 25 minutes.

In accordance with the Methodological recommendations of the Ministry of Health of the USSR No. 000-90, in the dynamics of the experiment, the temperature of the body and skin was measured in 11 parts of the body (forehead, chest, back, abdomen, lower back, shoulder, hand, thigh-top, thigh-bottom, lower leg, foot), frequency heart rate (HR). Warmth and moisture sensations were recorded on the appropriate scales (heat sensations: 4 points - comfort, 5 - slightly warm, 6 - warm, 7 - hot; moisture sensations: 1 point - skin is dry, 2 - skin is slightly moist, 3 - visible sweating, 4 - profuse sweating). Before and after staying in the cabin, blood pressure (BP) and moisture loss were measured.

According to the results of skin and body temperature measurements, the weighted average skin temperature, average body temperature and heat accumulation in the body were calculated. According to international standards, the temperature of the internal surfaces of the IR cabin is safe with prolonged (10 minutes or more) contact with the body surface. The results of assessing the thermal state of a person showed that during a 25-minute session, the skin temperature rose to 38.7-39.1°C, body temperature to 37.6°C. Moisture sensations were estimated at 3.45-3.68, which indicates profuse sweating in most areas of the body surface, which begins from the 15th minute (men) and from the 20th minute (women), regardless of the mode. Thermal sensations were assessed as 5 and 6 points (warm and very warm), blood pressure slightly decreased by up to 10 mm/Hg. Art.

According to the data obtained and the results of their analysis, an infrared sauna can be recommended for thermal procedures. Based on their observations, the doctors of the Center for Prostatology of the Russian Academy of Natural Sciences came to the conclusion that the use of an infrared cabin is a good and safe addition to modern health and tonic procedures.

For many years, the Japanese doctor Ishikawa has been conducting experiments aimed at studying the characteristics of penetrating infrared radiation and developing recommendations for its proper use. The result of many years of research was the creation of infrared cabins, in which emitters, located optimally in relation to the human body, can achieve the greatest effect.

Heating elements for infrared saunas were specially patented in 1965 by Dr. Tadashi Ishikawa of the Fuji Medical Center. s R&D department. And only after 14 years of rigorous research, this technology was transferred for public use. In 1981, infrared emitters came to the American market as a patented product for warming newborns, including debilitated and premature babies. Infrared cabins came to the Russian market in the 90s.

In America, Europe and Southeast Asia, this wonderful wellness equipment has already become the de facto standard for wellness and sports centers along with the sauna and swimming pool. In addition, they are widely used in medical institutions for a variety of purposes - from warming up muscles before manual therapy to correcting the immune system. Beauty salons also actively use miracle cabins as an excellent tool for complete skin cleansing or as an effective addition to any anti-cellulite program. Visitors to the gyms, having thoroughly sweated in the infrared cabin after exercise, significantly reduce the level of lactic acid accumulated in the muscles. But infrared cabins are most widely used in medical institutions. First of all, doctors are attracted by the ability to quickly and effectively cleanse the body without the use of drugs. Today, due to the low price (no more expensive than a regular sauna), infrared cabins are installed in apartments and private houses. And from everywhere come only laudatory reviews.

About 70,000 infrared cabins have already been sold in Japan. About 300 martial arts schools in Japan and China use them to train their fighters. Several football teams in the German Bundesliga (Schalke 04, for example) use infrared cabins for warming up before matches and post-match rehabilitation of athletes. The organizers of the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta installed 86 infrared cabins in the Olympic Village for the preparation and rehabilitation of athletes.
In Europe alone, 30,000 infrared cabins are sold per year. But we must not forget that a wood-heated sauna (Russian bath), as a tradition, was, is and will be. Infrared sauna is a new, improved and effective invention, the use of which will not only help your health, but also save your money and your time.

Again, according to statistics, 80 percent of buyers of infrared cabins already have either a sauna or a Russian bath. In our opinion, the reason here is that the goals of the procedures are, of course, largely similar, but there are also significant differences.

Soaring in a bath or sauna is, first of all, a process, a kind of special pastime, which takes a lot of this time. The first is the preparation process. It takes about 1 hour to warm up a sauna or kindle a bath. Preparation of the infrared cabin - 5-10 minutes.

The process of soaring with exits and entries into the steam room, drinking the liquid to which you are accustomed (be it tea or beer) takes at least three hours. That is, this activity is almost half a day. Therefore, people who love a sauna or bath visit it no more than once a week. Not to mention the fact that often for one session one person is simply lazy or has no time to heat a sauna for himself, and even more so a bath. In the infrared cabin, one run for 20-40 minutes is enough.

You can use the infrared cabin installed in a country house or just in an apartment every day.

One of our colleagues who sells cabins says that the most grateful buyers of infrared cabins are farmers who, of course, have baths and saunas. But they are so tired, and during the hot season they have so little time to rest, that they do not have the strength for a long kindling and soaring. For them, quickly relaxing in the cockpit is just a salvation.

We know that our people, who are wrapped up in the city, work and business, will soon appreciate this advantage of infrared cabins. Muscles "stuffed" with stress relax, and a person experiences peace and bliss. Stress will no longer fill up your medical history. That is, the main goal of infrared cabins is to gain health and mental relaxation in the shortest possible time.

Another difference is functionality. Heat transfer in the sauna is due to air heated up to 100-120º. It warms the body through the skin to a depth of 3-5 mm. The infrared cabin differs from the traditional bath and sauna in that it uses the method of direct heating of the human body with special emitters.

In conventional saunas, a stove (wood-burning or electric) first heats the stones, then the stones heat up the air, and only after that the human body is heated. Air has a low heat capacity, therefore, in order to effectively heat the human body, it is necessary to heat it up strongly, as is done in Finnish saunas, or to add steam, as is done in Russian steam baths or Turkish baths.

Another significant drawback of traditional baths is that the air in their steam rooms is almost motionless. As it is used, it is quickly saturated with a large amount (up to 4-5%) of carbon dioxide and sweat fumes. Therefore, in the process of work, after a short time, the effect of closeness is formed in such steam baths, since the concentration of carbon dioxide rises at a time compared to its content in the air of the recreation rooms.

An increase in air temperature has its drawbacks: the possibility of getting thermal burns of the skin and upper respiratory tract increases, and there is a risk of getting skin diseases. An increase in air humidity also has its negative sides - the partial pressure of oxygen in the air decreases and, as a result, the risk of exacerbation of cardiovascular diseases increases.

Absolute contraindications for taking a bath or a Finnish sauna are tumors (benign or malignant) or suspicion of their presence, active forms of tuberculosis, bleeding, circulatory failure.

In the infrared sauna, special emitters are used that operate in the invisible range of the infrared spectrum. Since their impact on transparent objects is minimal, the air in the cabin does not heat up much (to verify this, touch the glass of the window through which the sun shines on a bright sunny day - it always remains cool). They are located around the human body for the most efficient heating. Thus, up to 90% of the energy generated by the emitters goes directly to the human body, and only 10% is used to heat the air. This explains the low temperature in the infrared sauna. In addition, such heaters do not burn oxygen in the sauna.

Briefly, all the differences between saunas and infrared cabins are presented in the table:

	IR cabin	Sauna
Heat transfer	long infrared waves	hot air
Temperature during procedures
Warming up the body	to a depth of 4 cm	to a depth of several mm
Amount of sweat	2-3 times more than in a sauna	2 - 3 times less than in the IR cabin
Composition of sweat	80% water 20% dry residue (fats, cholesterol, toxins, slags)	95% water 5% dry residue (fats, cholesterol, toxins, slags)
Warm-up time
Time of acceptance of procedures	20-40 minutes
Email power	1-3 kW (for comparison - an electric kettle - 2.2 kW)	4-9 kW (for the same volume)
Email voltage		typically 380 V
Time of healing action	prolonged	short period
Age restrictions
Health restrictions
The cost of email energy	minor	significant
Cost for the same size and performance	approximately equal to

In addition to the undoubted health benefits, infrared cabins have a number of important technical advantages:

Large internal volume relative to external size due to thin walls

・Minimum site requirements

· No approvals from the fire and utility services are required

Due to the very mild climate, the procedures in the infrared cabin can be taken by people with poor health, the elderly, children and anyone who is contraindicated in a traditional sauna

· High indicators of quality and reliability of a design. Infrared cabins are durable, compact and can be installed in an apartment, country house, cottage, office, health center, sports club, hospital, clinic, etc.

Infrared cabins can be used to provide additional paid services in fitness clubs, swimming pools, sports centers, etc.

There is a question whether it is possible to equip an already finished sauna with infrared emitters.

The answer is only theoretical. You can equip the sauna with infrared emitters, but the healing effect of such procedures will be minimal. In general, the specifics of the operation of a conventional sauna and an infrared cabin make these devices incompatible. At least those emitters that are currently used to build infrared cabins cannot work in a conventional sauna, if only because their electrical wiring is not made in a moisture-proof version and some elements of infrared heaters are not adapted to high temperatures. In addition, for the best effect of infrared rays, it is very important to correctly position the emitters relative to the user's body, violation of this rule can nullify their benefits. That is why all IR booths are made in roughly fixed sizes based on scientific research. Therefore, we do not recommend integrating IR emitters into ready-made saunas. At the same time, due to their compactness (from 90x90 cm) and ease of connection (220V, ordinary socket), these cabins can be installed in the same area as saunas and become their perfect complement.

Contraindications 1. If you are taking any prescribed medication, consult your doctor or pharmacist about possible changes in drug exposure due to any interaction with heat rays. 2. Please note that during the procedure there is an increase in the internal temperature of a person, which may have an undesirable effect for people suffering from metabolic diseases, multiple sclerosis and some skin diseases. 3. If you have recent (severe) joint injuries, do not heat them for the first 48 hours after the injury or until the symptoms of fever and swelling have subsided. If you have a joint or joints that are chronically hot or swollen, those joints may not respond well to intense heat of any kind. Strong heating is contraindicated in all cases where there are any infections, whether dental, in the joints or in any other tissues. 4. If you are or think you are pregnant, stop using your sauna, especially during the first part of your pregnancy. Finnish women bathe in saunas, which do not warm up the body as much as infrared radiation, only 6-12 minutes and leave them at the moment when discomfort is felt. Such a low level of intensity of the use of thermal procedures does not lead to fetal malformations. Compared to the sauna, the effect of infrared heat radiation is 2-3 times more intense and penetrates deeper into the body. Therefore, it is reasonable to reduce this exposure to 2-6 minutes with the lowest possible risk. In the last stages of pregnancy, moderate sweating helps the expectant mother to cope with the increased load on the kidneys. However, be extremely careful if there are any problems related to pregnancy. Check with your doctor. 5. Metal prostheses, rods, artificial joints or any other surgical implants usually reflect infrared rays and therefore are not heated by heat rays. However, you can consult with your surgeon about how to use infrared heat radiation. Of course, the use of infrared should be discontinued if you experience pain near any implants. Silicone absorbs infrared energy. Implanted silicone or silicone nose or ear prostheses can be heated with infrared rays. Since silicone melts at 200 C (392 F), there is no harm in using infrared light. 6. Warming up the lower back in women during the menstrual period can temporarily increase the amount of discharge. If you know this can happen, you can either allow yourself to experiment with a short exposure, or simply avoid using infrared radiation at this time of the cycle. 7. People suffering from hemophilia or those who are prone to hemorrhage (bleeding) should avoid both the use of infrared radiation and any thermal procedures that can cause vasodilation, which in turn can increase the likelihood of bleeding. In our practice, how much we experienced it ourselves, from the inquiries of our clients and colleagues, we did not hear a single complaint and did not feel anything unpleasant. What do you think could be safer if infrared emitters came to the American market in 1981 as a patented means for warming newborns, including debilitated and premature babies? It should be noted that there are ten times more contraindications for visiting saunas and baths.

Every day a person is under the influence of infrared radiation and its natural source is the sun. Incandescent elements and various electric heaters are classified as unnatural derivatives.. This radiation is used in heating systems, infrared lamps, heating devices, TV remote controls, and medical equipment. Therefore, it is always necessary to know what are the benefits and harms of infrared radiation for humans.

Infrared radiation: what is it

In 1800, an English physicist discovered infrared heat by decomposing sunlight into a spectrum using a prism.. William Herschel applied a thermometer to each color until he noticed an increase in temperature from purple to red. Thus, the area of ​​sensation of heat was opened, but it is not visible to the human eye. Radiation is distinguished by two main parameters: frequency (intensity) and beam length. At the same time, the wavelength is divided into three types: near (from 0.75 to 1.5 microns), medium (from 1.5 to 5.6 microns), far (from 5.6 to 100 microns).

It is long-wave energy that has positive properties, corresponding to the natural radiation of the human body with the largest wavelength of 9.6 microns. Therefore, the body perceives each external influence as "native". The best example of infrared radiation is the heat of the Sun. Such a beam has the difference that it heats the object, not the space around it. Infrared radiation is a heat dissipation option.

The benefits of infrared radiation

Devices that use long-wave thermal radiation affect the human body in two different ways. The first method has a strengthening property, increasing protective functions and preventing early aging. This type allows you to cope with various diseases, increasing the body's natural defense against ailments. It is a form of health care treatment that is suitable for use at home and in health care settings.

The second type of influence of infrared rays is the direct treatment of diseases and general ailments. On a daily basis, a person is faced with health-related disorders. Therefore, long emitters have a therapeutic property. In many medical institutions in America, Canada, Japan, the CIS countries and Europe, such radiation is used. Waves are able to penetrate deeply into the body, warming up the internal organs and the skeletal system. These effects help to improve blood circulation and accelerate the flow of fluids in the body.

Increased blood circulation has a beneficial effect on human metabolism, tissues are saturated with oxygen, and the muscular system receives nutrition.. Many diseases can be eliminated by regular exposure to radiation that penetrates deep into the human body. This wavelength will relieve such ailments as:

• high or low blood pressure;
• pain in the back;
• overweight, obesity;
• diseases of the cardiovascular system;
• depression, stress;
• disorders of the digestive tract;
• arthritis, rheumatism, neuralgia;
• arthrosis, inflammation of the joints, cramps;
• malaise, weakness, exhaustion;
• bronchitis, asthma, pneumonia;
• sleep disorder, insomnia;
• muscle and lumbar pain;
• problems with blood supply, blood circulation;
• otorhinolaryngological diseases without purulent deposits;
• skin ailments, burns, cellulite;
• kidney failure;
• colds and viral illnesses;
• decrease in the protective function of the body;
• intoxication;
• cystitis and prostatitis of an aggravated form;
• cholecystitis without stone formation, gastroduodenitis.

The positive effect of radiation is based on the fact that when the wave hits the skin, it acts on the endings of the nerves and there is a feeling of warmth. Over 90% of the radiation is destroyed by the moisture in the top layer of the skin, it causes nothing more than an increase in body temperature. The spectrum of action, the length of which is 9.6 microns, is absolutely safe for humans.

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Radiation stimulates blood circulation, normalizing blood pressure and metabolic processes. When the brain tissues are supplied with oxygen, the risk of dizziness is reduced and memory is improved. The infrared beam is able to remove salts of heavy metals, cholesterol and toxins. During therapy, the patient's immunity increases, the hormonal background normalizes and the water-salt balance is restored. Waves reduce the effect of various toxic chemicals, have anti-inflammatory properties, and inhibit the formation of fungi, including molds.

Application of infrared radiation

Infrared energy is used in different areas, positively affecting a person:

1. Thermography. With the help of infrared radiation, the temperature of objects located at a distance is determined. Thermal waves are mainly used in the military and industrial sectors. Heated objects with such a device can be seen without lighting.
2. Heating. Infrared rays contribute to an increase in temperature, having a beneficial effect on human health. In addition to useful infrared saunas, they are used for welding, annealing plastic objects, curing surfaces in the industrial and medical fields.
3. Tracking. This way of using thermal energy is passive guidance of missiles. These flying elements have a mechanism called a "thermal seeker" inside. Cars, planes and other vehicles, as well as people, radiate heat to help rockets find the right direction to fly.
4. Meteorology. Radiation helps satellites determine the distance at which clouds are located, determines their temperature and type. Warm clouds are shown in gray and cold clouds in white. The data is studied without interference both day and night. The terrestrial hot plane will be indicated in gray or black.
5. Astronomy. Astronomers are equipped with unique devices - infrared telescopes, which allow them to observe various objects in the sky. Thanks to them, scientists are able to find protostars before they begin to emit light visible to the human eye. Such a telescope will easily detect cold objects, but planets cannot be seen in the viewed infrared spectrum due to the drowning light from the stars. The device is also used to observe the nuclei of galaxies, which are covered by gas and dust.
6. Art. Reflectograms, which work on the basis of infrared radiation, help specialists in this field to examine in more detail the lower layers of an object or an artist's sketches. This method allows you to compare the drawings of the drawing and its visible part to determine the authenticity of the painting, and whether it was under restoration. Previously, the device was adapted for studying old documents in writing and making ink.

These are only the main methods of using thermal energy in science, but new equipment based on it appears every year.

Harm of infrared radiation

Infrared light brings not only a positive effect on the human body, it is worth remembering the harm that it can cause if used incorrectly and be dangerous to others. It is the IR ranges with a short wavelength that negatively affect. The bad effect of infrared radiation on the human body manifests itself in the form of inflammation of the lower layers of the skin, dilated capillaries and blistering.

The use of infrared rays must be immediately abandoned in case of such diseases and symptoms:

• diseases of the circulatory system, bleeding;
• chronic or acute form of purulent processes;
• pregnancy and lactation;
• malignant tumors;
• pulmonary and heart failure;
• acute inflammation;
• epilepsy;
• with prolonged exposure to infrared radiation, the risk of developing photophobia, cataracts and other eye diseases increases.

Strong exposure to infrared radiation leads to reddening of the skin and burns. Workers in the metallurgy industry sometimes develop heat stroke and dermatitis. The shorter the user's distance to the heating element, the less time he should spend near the device. Overheating of the brain tissue by one degree and heat stroke is accompanied by symptoms such as nausea, dizziness, tachycardia, darkening in the eyes. With an increase in temperature of two or more degrees, there is a risk of developing meningitis.

If heatstroke occurs under the influence of infrared radiation, immediately place the victim in a cool room and remove all clothing that constricts or restricts movement. Bandages soaked in cold water or ice packs are applied to the chest, neck, groin, forehead, spine, and armpits.

In the absence of an ice bag, any fabric or piece of clothing can be used for this purpose. Compresses are made only with very cold water, periodically wetting the dressings in it.

If possible, a person completely wraps himself in a cold sheet. Additionally, you can blow the patient with a stream of cold air using a fan. Drinking plenty of cold water will help alleviate the condition of the victim. In severe cases of exposure, you need to call an ambulance and give artificial respiration.

How to avoid the harmful effects of IR waves

To protect yourself from the negative effects of heat waves, you must adhere to some rules:

1. If the work is directly related to high-temperature heaters, then use of protective clothing to protect the body and eyes is required.
2. Household heaters with exposed heating elements are used with extreme caution. You can not be close to them and it is better to reduce the time of their influence to a minimum.
3. The room should be equipped with devices that have the least impact on a person and his health.
4. Don't stay in the sun for a long time. If this cannot be changed, then you need to constantly wear a hat and clothes that cover open areas of the body. This is especially true for children, who can not always determine the increase in body temperature.

Subject to these rules, a person will be able to protect himself from the unpleasant consequences of excessive thermal influence. Infrared rays can bring both harm and benefit in certain applications.

Treatment Methods

Infrared color therapy is divided into two types: local and general. In the first type, there is a local effect on a particular area, and with general treatment, the waves treat the entire human body. The procedure is carried out twice a day for 15-30 minutes. The course of treatment is from 5 to 20 sessions. Be sure to wear protective equipment when exposed to radiation. For the eyes, cardboard linings or special glasses are used. After the procedure, redness with blurred borders appears on the skin, which disappears after an hour after exposure to the rays. Infrared radiation is highly valued in medicine.

High radiation intensity can be harmful to health, so you need to follow all contraindications.

Thermal energy daily accompanies a person in everyday life. Infrared radiation brings not only benefits, but also harm. Therefore, it is required to treat infrared light with care. Devices that emit these waves must be used in accordance with safety regulations. Many do not know whether thermal exposure is harmful, but with the correct use of devices, one can improve a person’s health and get rid of certain diseases.

Infrared wavelength

A lot of unreliable (and sometimes frankly false) information is being circulated on the Internet regarding the penetration of infrared radiation into the human body. Usually such information is disseminated by sellers of cabins with carbon (film) heaters, inventing various pseudo-scientific terms: "resonance absorption", "Rays of Life", etc. To clarify this issue, we present a description of the interaction of infrared radiation with living tissues based on scientific literature that is accepted throughout the world.

Interaction of IR radiation with living tissues

The infrared region of the spectrum, according to the international classification, is divided into near IR-A (from 0.76 to 1.5 microns), medium IR-B (1.5 - 3 microns) and far IR-C (over 3 microns).

From the point of view of human physiology, near infrared rays in the region and in the proportions in which we usually receive them from the Sun through the atmosphere are not only useful, but also necessary. Near infrared rays (up to 1.5 microns) are absorbed in the depth of the skin, while infrared rays with a longer wavelength are absorbed already on their surface.

Indeed, the skin is transparent to infrared radiation with a wavelength of up to 1.5 microns. Then it becomes relatively opaque and is characterized by a rather complex absorption spectrum. The skin should be considered as a complex consisting of the epidermis, the transparency of which may vary depending on the condition, of pigments, intercellular tissues, subcutaneous fat, etc. Possessing great hygroscopicity and being rich in blood vessels, the skin complex is a physiological screen, the transparency of which for infrared rays depends on the wavelength. It should be considered that for infrared rays with a wavelength of more than 5 microns, the skin is completely opaque.

Given the physiological characteristics of a person, therapists divide the infrared range into 3 categories:

wavelength more than 5 microns - radiation absorbed on the surface of the skin;

wavelength 1.5 ÷ 5 microns - radiation absorbed by the epidermis and the connective tissue layer of the skin;

wavelength 0.76 ÷ 1.5 microns - radiation penetrating deep into the skin;

When it is necessary to act on the surface of the skin, mucous membrane, vascular system, the long-wave range is used. To influence in depth, for example, on the lymphatic system or muscle tissue, infrared radiation with a wavelength of 0.76-1.5 microns is used. The energy absorbed by the skin turns into heat. The tolerable temperature of the skin is 43.8°C for the short-wave radiation range, and reaches 45.5°C for the long-wave radiation range, which indicates the different effect of these two radiation areas.

The human body, like any heated body, emits infrared radiation. Any biological object (in particular, a person) is a complex system of various molecules that have their own emission spectra, so the total radiation of a person will differ significantly from the radiation of a completely black body at the same temperature. This radiation occurs in the range between 2 and 14 µm, with a maximum at 6 µm.

Important! For effective and volumetric heating of the human body, it is necessary to irradiate it with infrared radiation with a long wavelength in the range of 0.76 - 3 microns, only in this case the maximum penetration of infrared radiation will be observed. Infrared waves with a wavelength of more than 5 microns do not penetrate the human body, but are absorbed by the upper layers of the skin.

For real biological objects Kirchhoff's law not fulfilled, i.e. absorption spectra and emission spectra are different. The following graphs show the absorption spectra for water and tissue of human organs, depending on the wavelength. Note that the tissue of the human body consists of 98% water and this fact explains the similarity of absorption characteristics.

We specifically provide several graphs from various primary sources in order to exclude any speculation about the absorption of IR radiation. As seen of these graphs, the greatest penetration is observed in the range from 0.7 to 3 μm, and this range is called the "therapeutic transparency window". Only radiation from this range can penetrate to a depth of 4 cm. At other wavelengths, infrared radiation is absorbed by the upper layers of the skin and cannot penetrate deep into the human body.

Schedule	A source
	"LOW REACTIVE-LEVEL LASER THERAPY PRACTICAL APPLICATION" T.Ohshiro (1988),
	International Labor Organization, Encyclopedia of Occupational Health and Safety, 2nd ed., 1988
	"Biophysical foundations of physiotherapy", G.N. Ponomarenko, I.I. Turkovsky, Moscow, "Medicine", 2006, pp. 17-18., textbook for universities