Infrared heat therapy uses infrared lamps, heaters, and infrared saunas to boost immune function, reduce inflammation, stimulate detoxification and weight loss, promote cardiovascular health and circulation, relieve pain, increase healing of wounds, relieve stress and depression, among other clinical benefits. Hyperthermia, or raising the body’s core temperature through external heat sources, can have a number of benefits. The use of infrared heat specifically has been clinically researched and proven highly efficacious in helping to treat a wide range of health concerns.

Infrared radiant heat is an energy source that heats objects through a specific process known as direct light conversion, also known as radiant heat. This type of energy can travel three or more inches deep into the body from the skin’s surface, thereby nourishing tissue and stimulating beneficial reactions, most notably increased immune activity, heavy metal and toxin removal, increased circulation and reduced inflammation, and the stimulation of collagen growth. This type of heat is what stimulates the hypothalamus, which is a primary endocrine gland involved in immune regulation. The core body temperature raises only a few degrees temporarily, making this form of hyperthermia safe and effective for many people. Infrared lamps and saunas are now believed to have some anti-tumor effects, by slowing the proliferation of cancer cells, while stimulating the activity of certain immune cells to help destroy the cancer.

There is some debate regarding the use of near-infrared heat vs. far-infrared heat. Artificially, near infrared heat comes from an infrared colored heat lamp, and is a wide spectrum heat wave but with a shorter wavelength range as compared to far infrared. Near infrared heat thereby more naturally resembles the suns’ rays (without the negative effects of UV radiation). Near infrared heat is definitely beneficial for focusing on a concentrated area of the body, and some studies suggest that it may penetrate more deeply into the body than far infrared. It is possible to add near infrared lamps to a far infrared sauna to increase the effectiveness. Overall, both types of infrared therapy can provide a multitude of health promoting benefits. However, if you are under the care of a health professional for a serious illness, it is necessary to consult with your care provider to ensure safety and success of treatment.