Chronic degenerative diseases have surpassed the infectious diseases towards the end of 20th century so finding alternative treatments for these diseases is important for a happy and healthy life. Could the answer be right underneath our feet?
Scientific research on earthing, also known as grounding, has garnered increasing interest in recent years due to its potential health benefits. Although earthing and grounding terms are often used interchangeably to describe a therapeutic technique that “grounds” a person to the Earth, they are slightly different. Earthing involves direct physical contact with the Earth’s surface, such as laying, sitting or walking barefoot on grass, soil, sand or another conductive surface. Direct touch with Earth facilitates the transfer of electrons from the Earth into the body and is thought to neutralize free radicals and reduce inflammation, leading to various health improvements.
The healing benefits of earthing come from the direct contact with Earth’s direct current (DC) energy circuit. DC energy is the natural energy of the whole universe that syncs all conductive elements into one flowing circuit, while the alternating current (AC) energy is manmade and used for powering electrical gadgets. DC energy flows through everything (soil, plants, humans, etc.) and is what the body uses to perform all functions, from the muscle movement to the beating of the heart.
Although the research on this phenomena is fairly young in scientific terms, several studies have found the beneficial effects of earthing on human health.
One research study (Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine) found that earthing significantly thinned blood (reduced blood viscosity) which may decrease the risk of cardiovascular disease. Another study (Journal of Inflammation Research) reported that earthing reduced pain levels and inflammation in participants with chronic autoimmune and inflammatory conditions, suggesting its potential as an alternative therapy method.
Additionally, research published in the Journal of Environmental and Public Health found that earthing may increase sleep quality by regulating circadian rhythms and reducing cortisol levels, resulting in better relaxation and restorative rest. Yet other studies have indicated that earthing/grounding could potentially accelerate healing of wounds, boost immune function, improve mood and stress resilience.
While the scientific evidence on earthing’s health benefits continues to grow, further research is needed to fully understand its mechanisms and clinical applications. Just like any other new healing modality (or any other phenomena), earthing has produced many skeptics and critics. For some, it is hard to believe that something so simple can be so beneficial. Others state that more rigorous studies are needed to confirm the benefits and efficacy of earthing, and then determine its protocols and ideal practices. Despite this, many individuals who practice earthing — either by walking barefoot outdoors or using the grounding mats indoors — on a daily basis have reported experiencing beneficial effects.
In conclusion, scientific research on earthing states that direct contact with the Earth’s surface may provide numerous health benefits such as improved blood circulation and quality of sleep, enhanced overall well-being, and reduced inflammation. Although the research on earthing’s potential positive effects on health and overall wellness is still young, it is gaining interest in both alternative health practices and laypeople.
References
Koniver, L. (2023). Practical applications of grounding to support health. Biomedical Journal, 46(1), 41–47. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bj.2022.12.001
Chevalier, G., Sinatra, S. T., Oschman, J. L., Sokal, K., & Sokal, P. (2013). Earthing: Health implications of reconnecting the human body to the Earth’s surface electrons. Journal of Environmental and Public Health, 2012, 291541. doi:10.1155/2012/291541
Chevalier, G., Sinatra, S. T., Oschman, J. L., Sokal, K., & Sokal, P. (2012). Earthing (grounding) the human body reduces blood viscosity—a major factor in cardiovascular disease. The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 19(2), 102-110. doi:10.1089/acm.2010.0687
Chevalier, G., Melvin, B., Barsotti, T., & Sokal, K. (2013). The effects of grounding (earthing) on inflammation, the immune response, wound healing, and prevention and treatment of chronic inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. Journal of Inflammation Research, 6, 83-96. doi:10.2147/JIR.S69656
