Infrared Heating and Health Benefits

The largest source of infrared radiation is the energy produced by the Sun. Solar energy provides vitamins to the human body, positively influencing well-being and metabolic processes. Solar energy reaches the Earth's surface as electromagnetic waves characterized by varying lengths. Based on this, ultraviolet radiation, infrared radiation, and visible light can be distinguished.

From a practical standpoint, heating systems utilizing infrared are installed in apartments and houses in the form of underfloor heating, ceiling, or wall heating. Infrared heating films or heating panels are used here. Each of these solutions allows for achieving high thermal efficiency and significantly contributes to improving the comfort of life and the well-being of household members.

Subranges of Infrared

Infrared (IR) can be divided into three subranges based on different wavelength ranges. They are:

• short infrared waves (NIR) – in the range from 0.8 to 2.5 micrometers (μm);
• medium infrared waves (MIR) – in the range from 2.5 to 25 micrometers (μm);
• long infrared waves (FIR) – in the range from 25 to 100 micrometers (μm).

Infrared and Its Effect on the Human Body

Scientific research on the effects of infrared on the human body is continuously evolving. The benefits of infrared therapy are discussed in the scientific community and indicated as a complement to the treatment and rehabilitation processes of certain ailments. Expanding scientific knowledge allows for introducing therapeutic and rehabilitative solutions worldwide. This is evident in the example of therapeutic cabins, infrared loungers, or infrared saunas. Infrared heating of spaces is recommended for individuals exposed to injuries, especially athletes, and those undergoing rehabilitation due to muscle problems.

Counteracting various ailments, treatment, or rehabilitation using infrared is based on inducing a thermal reaction in biological tissue. Infrared radiation penetrates the cells of subcutaneous tissue to a maximum depth of up to 4 cm. It improves blood and lymph circulation and enhances the absorption of nutrients. It also supports metabolism and aids in the development of the immune system. Among other scientifically studied effects of infrared radiation on the human body, the following can be indicated:

• muscle relaxation and relief from muscle pain;
• improvement of the body's water-electrolyte balance;
• strengthening of blood circulation;
• enhancing the process of biological cell renewal;
• reduction of overall nervous excitability and psychological tension, as well as calming the mood;
• reduction of body fat as a result of accelerated metabolism, thus facilitating weight loss;
• alleviation of back pain and rheumatic ailments.

Infrared Heating Systems in Agriculture

Infrared heating systems are also introduced in agriculture. Both the soil in which plants grow, as well as the walls and ceilings in greenhouses, or the interiors of agricultural buildings where animals are raised, are heated. In the latter case, the floor is most often heated to promote the natural growth of cattle and pigs, as well as to reduce the risk of mold and fungi.

Infrared heating systems can thus induce beneficial health changes in both humans and plants or animals. This supports their development for adaptation in the living and economic environment of humans.

Can Infrared Heating Be Harmful to Health?

No studies have confirmed any negative impact of infrared radiation in the form of home heating on human health. Infrared heating also does not harm smaller beings such as dogs, cats, rabbits, or any other domesticated animals. The infrared waves used in heating systems are therefore completely safe. Moreover, they can only positively affect organisms. Such effects of infrared have already been scientifically proven.

However, this does not mean that all wavelengths are harmless. The so-called near infrared can be harmful to living organisms. It should be emphasized that infrared heating never utilizes it. Only far infrared waves (25 – 1000 μm) find their application in professional heating solutions. This refers to a temperature range between 5ºC and 100ºC, although in the case of warehouses or industrial plants, emitters with a temperature emission level of 350ºC can be used. Such strong infrared heating still uses far waves.

This type of infrared is a barrier that fungi and mold cannot cross. Infrared heating effectively eliminates the problem of microorganism development. Undesirable organisms in residential buildings do not have conditions for growth. Infrared waves are absorbed by the floor, ceiling, and walls, which further hinders the emergence of mold and fungi.

What Can Infrared Heating Help With?

The effects of infrared rays on the human body are very well documented. To such an extent that several areas can be identified where it works excellently as support in treating certain health problems. Infrared heating induces thermal reactions in human tissue, which are responsible, among other things, for sweating. This indirectly influences biostimulation. As a result, infrared heating can help with ailments related to muscle pain, inflammatory conditions, or circulation disorders.

The energy created by the action of infrared radiation does not remain indifferent to the respiratory and cardiovascular systems, as well as the functioning of the kidneys, adrenal glands, and other glands. It reduces muscle tension, calms, alleviates pain, and accelerates metabolism. It is clear that infrared waves have a comprehensive effect on the human body. Among the ailments that may respond to infrared action, the following should be mentioned:

– various skin diseases,

– sciatica,

– rheumatism,

– arthritis,

– stress,

– insomnia and fatigue,

– headaches and migraines,

– high blood pressure,

– colds.

Infrared is also useful for removing toxins from subcutaneous tissue, resulting in cleansed skin. Moreover, infrared heating does not dry out the nasal mucosa. This not only facilitates breathing but also helps maintain the body's natural immunity. However, the above examples do not mean that one can abandon traditional treatment processes. Infrared heating can, however, contribute to improving the effects of therapy. Therefore, it is gaining increasing interest wherever modern solutions in the health of household members are valued.

Infrared Heating and Anions

Anions are negatively charged molecules. Due to their properties, they remove dust and unpleasant odors from the air, and even eliminate bacteria and other microorganisms. Infrared heating is largely responsible for emitting anions into the rooms where it operates. This is another example of how useful infrared is.

It takes on particular significance in new buildings. They lack anions, while computers, ventilation systems, fluorescent lights, and other devices emit positively charged ions. These are harmful to health. As a result of their action, one may feel fatigue and irritability. They also worsen overall well-being. Therefore, infrared heating in new construction projects is slowly becoming standard. It is one of the better and very functional ways to fill rooms with health-beneficial anions.