Light therapy has probably been around ever since the first caveman noticed he felt warmer, a bit happier and generally less stiff and sore when the days grew longer and the sun shone brighter. After all, the sun is the perfect generator of light which is one of the life-giving essentials for our planet. Throughout history, ill people have been encouraged to seek direct sunlight, and consequently fresh air, for their curative powers, often not understanding why, but noticing that being outside with the sun’s rays on the body provided healing benefits.

For the past century scientists have been unraveling the many complexities of light. We now know that there is a visible spectrum of light (only about 10% of the solar spectrum) and an invisible spectrum and both have profound effects on our bodies, the bodies of our pets and all living creatures. In the 1970’s a German scientist, Fritz Popp, discovered that cells communicate using light, with healthy cells sending more than 100,000 light pulses per second in conjunction with electro-magnetism, thus producing energy. We have also learned that what determines visibility or invisibility is the length of the light’s wavelength. For example, red light (visible) has a range of 600 – 680 nanometers wavelength while the invisible infra-red light’s wavelength is much longer, in the 680 – 1100 nanometers range. What is important for you to know is that longer wave lengths penetrate deeper into the body. Red light penetrates several millimeters and infra-red light reaches a depth of around 50 mm (2 inches). However, current research is showing that because of the way infra-red light moves, it reaches far deeper into the tissues, organs and bones than was previously thought.  Variables such as skin color and condition, clothing, hair and light intensity can affect these depths.

Photobiomodulation is the term applied to using red and infra-red lights as healing techniques for human beings and our pets. Healthy cell responses are found in these two light ranges, and according to many studies, healing aging or distressed cells can be achieved using this method. At the cellular level, scientists have seen that red and infra-red light enhances the “engine” of cells, the mitochondria, improving its’ functioning and ultimately the condition of the whole body.

When our bodies or our pet’s bodies are functioning better, we can expect to see some of the benefits noted below:

Red light therapy (the less deep wavelengths) is generally used for the following benefits –

1. Healing of skin issues, hot spots, acne, sunspots
2. Reduction of wrinkles
3. Increases production of melatonin
4. Improves eye health
5. Elevates mood and reduces anxiety
6. Increases surface blood circulation

Infra-red light therapy (deeper wavelengths) is therapeutically used for the following conditions –

1. Enhances blood flow, circulation, heart issues
2. Speeds tissue rejuvenation
3. Reduces deep internal inflammation
4. Reduces nerve pain
5. Improves joint, muscular functions
6. Stimulates collagen production
7. Promotes brain health
8. May help regulate glucose levels

While the science behind red and infra-red light therapy is burgeoning and fascinating, it is also very complex and truly in its infancy. One of the highly respected researchers in this field, Dr. Glen Jeffery, said in a recent speech that the three best ways to achieve the benefits from red and infra-red light are to expose yourself to sunlight, use an appropriate red light device and use incandescent light bulbs. Naturally, sunlight is the best if you also protect yourself from the harmful effects of UV rays. Red light devices come in a wide variety of styles and prices, and users should carefully follow manufacturer’s instructions. Incandescent bulbs are healthy for our pets and us, but unfortunately, are not considered environmentally friendly.

For further information on this exciting, emerging wellness topic, you may want to listen to some of the outstanding experts in this field, such as Dr. Glen Jeffery, Dr. Paul Anderson, Dr. Martin Moore-Ede and Dr. Roger Seheult, to name a few.  If you are considering using red and infra-red light as therapy for you or your pet, please do your research and choose your options carefully to support the ongoing health of yourself and your pets.