The science behind grounding/earthing
Studies have shown that grounding or earthing can alleviate inflammation, improve heart rate variability (HRV), blood viscosity, cortisol dynamics, sleep, and autonomic nervous system (ANS) balance and reduces the effects of stress as well as boost academic performance at school. In short, when walking barefoot outside, negatively charged particles in the earth neutralise positive particles in your body, which can have a negative effect on your health. Read the scientific research supporting the claims for grounding and earthing at the bottom of this blog.

Grounding or earthing has many health benefits, such as reducing inflammation and stress

The benefits of grounding/earthing

Earthing, or grounding, involves making direct physical contact with the Earth’s surface to absorb negatively charged electrons, which are plentiful in the Earth’s surface. These free electrons help neutralise positively charged free radicals in the body, contributing to an internal balance similar to what one might experience in nature. The body, when grounded, remains at zero volts, matching the Earth’s electrical potential.

A report in the Journal of Environmental and Public Health highlights the significance of Earthing: “It is an established, though not widely appreciated fact that the Earth’s surface possesses a limitless and continuously renewed supply of free or mobile electrons. The Earth’s negative charge can create a stable internal bioelectrical environment for the normal functioning of all body systems, which may be important for setting the biological clock, regulating circadian rhythms, and balancing cortisol levels” (Oschman et al., 2010, p. 2).

In recent years, the concept of Earthing has gained scientific attention. As of now, there are over 41 published studies documenting the health benefits of Earthing through the use of indoor grounding products such as electrode patches and grounding bedding, all of which are connected to the Earth’s surface. These studies consistently indicate improved sleep, reduced pain, lower stress levels, and better immune function as outcomes associated with Earthing.

Studies suggest that earthing or grounding can help with a host of health issues (watch the video about the scientific research about earthing) and these are: 
• Blood markers of inflammation decrease (Patients hooked up to imaging studies show decreased inflammation all throughout the body, especially in areas where there was heightened inflammation)
• Blood sugar levels stabilise
• Metabolism speeds up naturally
• Pain decreases
• Improves mood
• Reduce stress and balance your autonomic nervous system
• Stress decreases and boosts feelings of calmness
• Hormones stabilise, and normalise the secretion of the stress hormone cortisol
• Speed up wound healing
• Sleep improvement and feelings of restfulness upon waking
• Raise your heart rate variability, HRV (your heart’s ability to respond to stimuli)
• Increase the structure of the water in your cells
• Reduce the severity of the inflammatory response after intense workouts and reduce muscle stiffness and soreness
• Thin your blood (see the warning below if you’re on thinning blood medication)
• Improved circulation
• Earthing or grounding helps with electro-smog and dirty electricity
• Boosts your antioxidants (when you walk barefoot, free electrons are transferred from the earth into your body, and this grounding effect is one of the most potent antioxidants).
• Electro-smog reduction. Another benefit to grounding is the reduction of the unwanted voltage induced on your body from electro-smog in your environments, such as that from power stations, wi-fi networks and other electromagnetic fields and dirty electricity.
• Kids behaving and performing better at school. Teachers have been reporting that children learn better when they’re grounded. The Finnish education system is one of the best in the world and one rule for the kids in classrooms is NO SHOES to ground them. One school in the UK applied this principle and noticed a huge improvement in students’ performance. Following the example set in Scandinavia, a decades-long study involving 25 schools around the world found that children were more engaged in a ‘shoeless’ classrooms and behaved better and obtain better grades than peers with footwear as well as bullying in schools was also markedly reduced. Professor Stephen Heppell, the led researcher with the Centre for Excellence in Media Practice at Bournemouth University, said: “Children are much more willing to sit on the floor and relax if they have no shoes on.”

There is scientific support for the above claims of grounding (over 41 studies – read below). Research suggests that obesity, dementia, cancer and viral infections, as well as other chronic conditions, have one thing in common: inflammation.

Grounding alleviates inflammation and pain

Inflammation has been recognised as the key component of most if not all, common chronic diseases. According to Graham Rook, emeritus professor of medical microbiology at University College London, inflammation has three jobs to do: kill off any infection, clear up the mess and help to repair the damage. Inflammatory chemicals can also get into the brain, where they can activate resident immune cells called microglia, which produce more inflammatory substances as a result. ‘That leads to increasing levels of toxic molecules within the brain, while levels of other chemicals, such as serotonin (important for regulating mood), decrease,’ says Golam Khandaker, a psychiatrist at Cambridge University. ‘This is very relevant for something like depression, where the problem is feeling low in mood and not being able to think straight.’ That is probably why a daily aspirin can be reduced the risk of depression by 40% in elderly men with a history of the condition.

Inflammation thrives when your blood is thick and you have a lot of free radical stress and a lot of changes in your body. Grounding effectively alleviates inflammation because it thins your blood and infuses you with negatively charged ions.

Warning About Grounding

WARNING: are you on thinning blood medication?

If you’re on thinning blood medication, consult your doctor before grounding (see below Is grounding / earthing safe?)

Grounding helps thin your blood by improving its zeta potential, improving the energy between your red blood cells. Research has demonstrated it takes about 80 minutes for the free electrons from the earth to reach your bloodstream and transform your blood.

As always, consult your doctor if you have any underlying health conditions or using certain medication (blood thinners), use medical devices such as pacemakers, or are pregnant before starting grounding practices, including the use of grounding mats. Improper installation or use of grounding mats – especially in environments with high electromagnetic fields or faulty electrical systems – can increase the risk of electric shock, amplify electromagnetic exposure, or cause other adverse effects. Always ensure your grounding equipment is certified, check outlets for proper grounding, and monitor your body’s response to grounding practices.

Grounding/earthing and sleep improvement and stress reduction

How does grounding/earthing work?

In short, negatively charged electrons in the Earth neutralize free radicals in your body as well as calm down the sympathetic nervous system (responsible for stress). According to the article by Dr Mercola about earthing works because “Your immune system functions optimally when your body has an adequate supply of electrons, which are easily and naturally obtained by barefoot contact with the Earth. Research indicates that electrons from the Earth have antioxidant effects that can protect your body from inflammation and its many well-documented health consequences. For most of our evolutionary history, humans have had continuous contact with the Earth.” Rubber and plastic-soled shoes work as electrical insulators and, therefore, will block the beneficial and unlimited flow of electrons from the earth to your body and neutralise any static electrical charge flowing through you. In scientific literature, the term Electron Transfer Technology (ETT), is used as another term for ‘earthing’ or ‘grounding’ – coupling the human body with the earth’s frequencies. You can think of the Earth as a kind of battery that balances your energies.

The Human Body’s Connection to the Earth
The human body relies on a continuous supply of negatively charged electrons to neutralise and prevent the accumulation of positively charged free radicals. Without regular contact with a source of electrons, cells struggle to maintain the necessary balance, leading to an excessive build-up of positive charge. This imbalance can result in the harmful accumulation of free radicals, triggering oxidative stress and inflammation.

This balance is crucial because prolonged oxidative stress is known to cause DNA damage, inflammation, and heighten the risk of various diseases, including heart disease, neurological disorders, autoimmune conditions, and cancer. Moreover, research suggests that oxidative stress plays a significant role in the ageing process.

Therefore, maintaining a balance between positive and negative charges is essential for preventing oxidative stress and minimising free radical damage.

The Earth’s Electrons: A Natural Antioxidant
Fortunately, the Earth is continuously charged with electrons, primarily through the countless lightning strikes occurring around the world every hour. This process makes the Earth a rich and abundant source of electrons, regarded as one of nature’s most potent antioxidants. Every time we make physical contact with the Earth’s surface, we become grounded, allowing us to absorb these free electrons through our skin. These electrons spread throughout our tissues, neutralising the positively charged free radicals in the body. In essence, when we are grounded to the Earth, our body cannot carry a charge.

However, when we become disconnected from the Earth and fail to make regular contact with its surface, we miss out on this vital source of electrons and antioxidants. This can result in an unnatural build-up of positive charge within the body, contributing to oxidative stress and its associated health risks.

Grounding reduces the induced electric field
Grounding has been found to have a significant impact on reducing the voltage induced on the body by the surrounding electrical environment, a crucial factor in our modern world. A 2012 review highlighted this effect, stating:
“Applewhite, an electrical engineer and expert in the design of electrostatic discharge systems in the electronic industry, was both subject and author of the study.4 Measurements were taken while ungrounded and then grounded using a conductive patch and conductive bed pad … Each method (patch and sheet) immediately reduced the common alternating current (AC) 60 Hz ambient voltage induced on the body by a highly significant factor of about 70 on average. The study showed that when the body is grounded, its electrical potential becomes equalized with the Earth’s electrical potential … This, in turn, prevents the 60 Hz mode from producing an AC electric potential at the surface of the body and from producing perturbations of the electric charges of the molecules inside the body. The study confirms the ‘umbrella’ effect of earthing the body explained by Nobel Prize winner Richard Feynman in his lectures on electromagnetism. Feynman said that when the body potential is the same as the Earth’s electric potential (and thus grounded), it becomes an extension of the Earth’s gigantic electric system. The Earth’s potential thus becomes the ‘working agent that cancels, reduces, or pushes away electric fields from the body.'”

Protection Against Electromagnetic Fields (EMFs)
The World Health Organisation (WHO) explains that electromagnetic fields (EMFs) affect the human body because of its bioelectrical systems, which regulate the heart, brain, and other vital organs. Prolonged exposure to EMFs can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, sleep disturbances, pain, depression, and even cellular damage.

EMFs are pervasive in our environment, originating from power lines, mobile phones, radio and TV broadcasts, wireless networks, Bluetooth devices, household wiring, and numerous electrical appliances. One way EMFs affect the body is by inducing voltage, which can be measured using a simple multimeter test. It is believed that increased voltage disrupts the body’s delicate electrical communications, which are essential for many physiological functions.

Grounding the body allows it to immediately equalise with the Earth’s electrical potential. This process creates a ‘Faraday cage’ effect, making the skin effectively repel electromagnetic fields, similar to how a mirror reflects light. When grounded, the body becomes impermeable to EMFs, preventing them from penetrating the body. This can be observed in a multimeter test, where the voltage in the body drops to nearly zero when grounded.

Grounding not only shields the body’s sensitive bioelectric systems and communication pathways, but also prevents the build-up of positive charge. Excess positive charge can contribute to oxidative stress, a key indicator of inflammation, which can lead to various health issues.

There is strong scientific support for grounding (over 41 published studies – read below)

Watch this comprehensive video about grounding (and it’s benefits and the scientific evidence behind it)

Watch  The Earthing Movie: The Remarkable Science of Grounding (full documentary below – or a short version https://vimeo.com/205264910/3eed01480b)

Grounding During Sleep
Grounding while sleeping provides the body with several hours of exposure to free electrons, a time when the body undergoes its most significant healing and regeneration processes.

The benefits of earthing are believed to largely stem from the continuous supply of free electrons absorbed from the Earth’s surface. These negatively charged electrons act as one of the most abundant natural antioxidants available. A recent paper by Oschman (published by The National Centre for Biotechnology Information) explains this phenomenon:

“It is well established, though not widely known, that the surface of the Earth possesses a limitless and continuously renewed supply of free or mobile electrons due to a global atmospheric electron circuit. Wearing shoes with insulating soles and sleeping in beds that are disconnected from the Earth’s electrical ground have isolated most people from the Earth’s electrical rhythms and free electrons. The most reasonable explanation for the benefits of earthing is that a direct connection with the Earth allows both diurnal electrical rhythms and free electrons to flow from the Earth to the body. It is suggested that the Earth’s electrical rhythms help regulate biological clocks that control sleep and activity, while the free electrons neutralise positively charged free radicals, which are a key factor in chronic inflammation. Current biomedical research links chronic inflammation to almost every modern chronic illness. This research provides a basis for earthing technologies, such as grounded bed sheets, that restore the body’s natural electrical connection to the Earth, even when going barefoot outdoors is not practical. These free electrons are proposed to act as natural antioxidants, helping to resolve chronic inflammation.”

Cortisol, a hormone that regulates the body’s circadian rhythm, is one of the primary regulators of the sleep-wake cycle. A recent study on the effects of grounding during sleep found that participants who slept grounded were almost entirely synchronised with the Earth’s natural day-night cycle, while those who were disconnected from the Earth showed significant disruption to this rhythm.

Sleeping indoors isolates us from the Earth, disconnecting us from its natural electric current. Furthermore, the higher we are from the ground, the greater the electrical charge carried by the body. For every meter above ground level, approximately 300 volts of charge build up in the body. This means that sleeping in a second-storey bedroom can result in an average charge of 1,000 volts. Such a charge can lead to the accumulation of free radicals, oxidative stress, inflammation, and accelerated ageing. One study even found that individuals living in multi-storey homes had a 40% higher risk of stroke, with elevated body voltage identified as a contributing factor.

A short version of DOWN TO EARTH | The Earthing Movie 15 min Short Film

Is grounding / earthing safe?

For thousands of years, humans have had continuous contact with the Earth – shoes are a fairly new invention. There are no known major contradictions to natural grounding when walking barefoot on grass or beach.

WARNING: So far, I’ve found only one contradiction to grounding and that is if people are on thinning blood medication (such as Coumadin, as it may thin the blood too much) they need to be careful and consult their doctor.

As always, consult your doctor if you have any underlying health conditions or using certain medication (blood thinners), use medical devices such as pacemakers, or are pregnant before starting grounding practices, including the use of grounding mats. Improper installation or use of grounding mats – especially in environments with high electromagnetic fields or faulty electrical systems – can increase the risk of electric shock, amplify electromagnetic exposure, or cause other adverse effects. Always ensure your grounding equipment is certified, check outlets for proper grounding, and monitor your body’s response to grounding practices.

Grounding via electrical earth in your electrical system
If you’re going to set up the earthing via your electrical cables – check for dirty electricity and other factors (electrical wiring, metal spring mattresses, metal beds, etc) which can affect the grounding and if you can get the clean earthing effect. Also, in Northern America, electrical earthing is different from the European one and needs to be checked with a mains earth present tester. To be on the safe side, I do recommend checking if the grounding effect is for you with something called body voltage check. Also, be mindful of how you feel when grounded via electrical earth in the electrical system. Grounding directly to the ground outside your home or workplace is ideal, but it still requires checking a specialised earth ground tester as well so you know if it really works. I personally don’t use any grounding mats – and don’t recommend a DIY approach to it. I do ground myself every day by having a 20-minute bath (in the morning and evening) and I’ve checked with the body voltage measurement that I am fully grounded in my bath. Also, people are different and can react differently to artificial grounding via earthing mats/sheets, etc (some couples sleeping in the same bed might have completely opposite reactions to artificial grounding via electrical cables for all kinds of reasons). Ideally,  you need to calibrate it onsite with body voltage measurements then you know for sure if it’s working and it’s for you. But if you feel it’s not making you sleep better – listen to your body – and stop using the electrical grounding mode.

Having a bath has a grounding and earthing effect

How and where to practice grounding
When it comes to grounding, connecting any part of your skin to the Earth offers benefits. However, there is a specific area that holds great potential: the centre of the ball of your foot, known as Kidney 1 (K1) in acupuncture. Kidney 1 is an acupuncture point that has a conductive connection to all the acupuncture meridians in your body. Exercising barefoot outdoors is an excellent way to incorporate grounding into your daily routine. It not only allows you to connect with the Earth but also accelerates tissue repair and alleviates muscle pain associated with intense physical activity.

The ideal locations for walking barefoot are beaches near or in the water. Saltwater is an excellent conductor, and it enhances the grounding effect. Additionally, our bodies possess some conductivity due to the presence of charged ions (electrolytes) dissolved in water. Consequently, our blood and other body fluids act as good conductors.

A close second option is a grassy area, especially if it is covered with dew or bare soil. Ceramic tiles (I do recommend these for homes and workplaces) and unsealed concrete are also good conductors, allowing electrons to pass through. However, painted concrete restricts the flow of electrons. Materials like asphalt, wood, rubber, and plastic are insulators that prevent the transfer of electrons and are unsuitable for barefoot grounding.

While any amount of grounding is beneficial, research indicates that it takes approximately 80 minutes for the Earth’s free electrons to reach your bloodstream and bring about the most significant advantages. Therefore, it is ideal to aim for 80 to 120 minutes of grounding each day to reap the benefits of this practice fully. But any time, even a short grounding session, will have some benefit.

There are five basic ways to earth yourself to benefit from it

Surfaces that allow for good grounding include sand, grass, bare dirt, untreated concrete, brick and ceramic tiles. The best results you get when the earth or surface is wet for the best conductivity. Leather-soled shoes also allow you to ground while walking, whereas rubber-soled shoes disconnect you from the earth and block beneficial electron transfer. Dr Laura Koniver, a physician and author of the recently released The Earth Prescription (2020), recommends grounding for around 30 minutes a day but other researchers (Chevalier, et al 2012) suggest about 80 minutes to get the full effect.

1) Walk barefoot whenever you can (not very practical), but even touching a tree for a few minutes can make a difference. (If you can do your exercises outdoor on the grass – grounding helps too. I’ve had my Pilates personal training done in a park, and I felt a significant difference). Unfortunately, modern rubber shoe soles insulate us from the health benefit of earthing. Leather shoe soles are much better at conducting earth’s frequencies.

Touching metal water sockets or metal radiators will have a grounding effect since they’re usually grounded. Also, washing dishes will have a grounding effect because you’ll be in contact with water and sink, which is most likely grounded. I like washing dishes – it’s my meditation/mindfulness practice.

If you have a garden, you could make a labyrinth to walk around. Labyrinths can have healing, meditative properties, so combining walking barefoot in a labyrinth is a double whammy.

Another option, which I do under the right conditions is to walk barefoot on snow – only for a minute or so. Over the years, I’ve built up my tolerance to it, but I only do it on fluffy snow and when it’s not too cold and for a very short time.

2) Earth your bed or your desk (requires some knowledge and testing equipment – a body voltage meter can determine how much electricity is induced when lying in bed or sitting in a chair and how much the electric charge is reduced by grounding. Also, checking the ground/earth wire in the electrical socket is essential for it to work well. Checking dirty electricity is important, too, since it can affect the grounding process. Read above if grounding/earthing is safe.

3) Have regular, 10-20min baths in the evening (my favourite). People who are electrosensitive discovered that they had fewer symptoms when they were having baths because they were naturally earthed. Please note that if your bath is plastic and the pipes are plastic, the grounding effect might be non-existent. Add some Epsom salts or magnesium (magnesium is depleted from our bodies when we get stressed) to your bath. Also, touching a radiator or a metal water tap will most likely have a grounding effect since most radiators and water taps are earthed.

4) Get Helios3 – geopathic stress harmoniser (very easy to install – just plug it into the socket or use a USB version for your computer/car/travels) which adds Schumann resonance/waves – which is the heartbeat of the Earth to your environment and boost the ambient earthing effect. Read more about electrosensitivity

5) Ceramic tiles. If you’re building or redecorating your home or workplace – consider ceramic tiles, which, when grounded properly will provide a natural grounding surface so you can enjoy earthing at your home or workplace. I highly recommend it. I’ve tested many houses which have tiles and the earthing effect was sometimes stronger than in their gardens.

Improved facial circulation (right image) after 20 minutes of grounding, as documented by a Speckle Contrast Laser Imager (dark blue=lowest circulation; dark red=highest circulation). Image Source: Scientific Research Publishing

Blood samples before and after grounding

Indoor grounding techniques
In the past, walking barefoot and sleeping on the ground were common practices. However, modern living has distanced us from direct contact with the Earth. This disconnection can lead to an accumulation of electric charge in our bodies, which can have negative consequences. The farther we are from the ground, the higher our charge. This has been accurately calculated: for every meter (3.28 feet) above the ground, our bodies accumulate 300 volts of charge. If we find ourselves in an elevated indoor environment, such as a second-story bedroom, the average charge can reach 1,000 volts, potentially increasing the risk of health problems. Research from 2009 even discovered a 40% higher risk of stroke among individuals residing in multistory homes.

Fortunately, there are ways to ground ourselves while indoors or at higher elevations:
1. Grounding pad or sheet: Use a grounding pad or sheet to connect your mattress to the ground while you sleep. This method ensures a direct connection between your body and the Earth.
2. Grounding mat: Keep your bare feet on a grounding mat while working. Grounding mats are effective if you have access to a grounded electrical outlet, especially beneficial in high-rise buildings. A grounded outlet can be identified by its three-prong design, including a ground port at the bottom. Make sure your skin directly contacts the mat without any clothing barrier.
3. Grounded yoga mat: Practice indoor yoga on a grounded yoga mat. Research indicates that performing yoga on a grounded mat indoors can help reduce blood viscosity and exercise-induced inflammation, providing similar benefits to walking barefoot outside.
4. Faucet contact: While shaving or brushing your teeth, touch the faucet with one hand while using the other. This contact with a conductive element can help discharge accumulated charge.
5. Airplane grounding: When flying, remove your shoes and rest your feet (bare or with socks) on the steel struts of the chair in front of you. This physical connection with the metal structure can help ground you during the flight.
6. Ceramic tiles: if you have any ceramic tiles anywhere in your home/workplace, you’re most likely to be grounded automatically there when walking barefoot (but do check with the body voltage kit, just to be sure). Also, some types of other flooring material can have a grounding effect (obviously, this needs to be checked with the body voltage kit again), but wood and carpets most likely won’t ground you.

By implementing these grounding techniques, you can maintain a balanced electrical state even while indoors or at higher elevations, promoting well-being and potentially reducing health risks.

Ceramic tiles offer automatic grounding/earthing

Earthing as a way of boosting your earth luck and feng shui luck

Classical feng shui suggests that there are three types of luck: heaven luck, human luck and earth luck, which is governed by feng shui. By being grounded or earthed, our bodies become conduits for life force or chi and we’re more able to materialise and physicalise our dreams and goals. Read more about What is Luck? Top Feng Shui Tips to Boost Luck in any Area of your Life – and using Scientific Principles

Watch this short video about grounding/earthing and the research behind it and how much earthing one needs to do a day to experience health benefits

Also, watch The Earthing Movie

History of grounding/earthing

Clint Ober, author of Earthing: The Most Important Health Discovery Ever? investigated the effect of wearing non-conductive synthetic-soled shoes on our connection to the earth’s negative charge. He was also aware of dumbing down our senses when wearing shoes. The soles of our feet have more than 200,000 receptors. This sensory information is used by our bodies to soften or stiffen our joints and alter our posture as a pro­tection mechanism against injury and to maximise the efficiency of our ­movement.

SUMMARY

Grounding/earthing has an antioxidant effect that helps alleviate inflammation in your body. When your body is grounded, you absorb large amounts of negative electrons in your body. Unhealthy lifestyle choices (sugar, smoking, electromagnetic smog, stress, high cholesterol, high uric acid levels) can make your blood hypercoagulable, i.e. thick and slow-moving, which increases the risk of having a blood clot or stroke. Earthing helps thin blood by improving its zeta potential – blood cells get a more negative charge, which in turn helps them repel each other to keep blood thin and less likely to clot. This process can significantly reduce the risk of stroke. Research suggests (Chevalier, et al 2012) that it takes about 80 minutes, or 40 minutes over two grounding periods, for the free electrons from the earth to reach your bloodstream and transform blood. So if you can ground yourself for about 1.5 to two hours to get the full effect. Walking barefoot is one way, but there are other ways too (see above), such as having a (long) bath, tiled flooring, etc.

Research on earthing/grounding

There are at least 41 published studies specifically investigating the effects of grounding (earthing) on human physiology, health, and related outcomes. This number is based on a comprehensive list compiled by the Earthing Institute, which tracks both clinical and experimental research in this field.

Grounding health benefits have been known for more than 100 years (of course, early humans didn’t have shoes, so that was a default way of walking), firstly popularised by German back-to-nature movements in the 19th century. In the 20s, in America, doctors recommended sleeping while ‘grounded’, because they believed that charges in the air were stopping people from sleeping well. So they suggested that patients with insomnia should lie on the ground or use copper wires attached to grounded pipes to ‘connect’ to the earth’s negatively charged particles.

The NHS and mental health charity Mind recommends grounding techniques, such as walks, to help people deal with flashbacks, nightmares or PTSD — with barefoot being optional.  “Walking outside (barefoot, if you want to) is one of a range of strategies we recommend to ground yourself.” said mental health nurse Jo Hemming. “Studies show grounding supports a reduction in anxiety and increases well-being and resilience. Practise and repetition is key, though, because it’s not an overnight cure.”

There is scientific support for grounding (41 studies), such as this 2011 study published in the Journal of Alternative Complementary Medicine (Alternative Complementary Medicine 2011 Apr; 17(4): 301–308.), which states:

“Earthing of an electrically insulated human organism during night rest causes lowering of serum concentrations of iron, ionized calcium, inorganic phosphorus, and reduction of renal excretion of calcium and phosphorus.

Earthing during night rest decreases free tri-iodothyronine and increases free thyroxine and thyroid-stimulating hormone. The continuous earthing of the human body decreases blood glucose in patients with diabetes.

Earthing decreases sodium, potassium, magnesium, iron, total protein, and albumin concentrations while the levels of transferrin, ferritin, and globulins α1, α2, β, and γ increase. These results are statistically significant …

Earthing the human body during relaxation and during physical activity is responsible for the increasing glucose utilization by the cells in NIDDM. Lack of contact with the Earth may cause opposite effects and may be the reason for several disorders (diabetes, obesity, and hypertension).

Our experiments have shown that contact of the human body with moistened surface of the Earth via a copper conductor can influence calcium–phosphate homeostasis. The effect of earthing of the human body in a recumbent position on calcium–phosphate homeostasis is opposite to that which occurs in states of weightlessness.”

Electrical Grounding Improves Vagal Tone in Preterm Infants

List of Grounding / Earthing Studies

Below is a list of the main studies on grounding/earthing, as compiled from the Earthing Institute and other scientific sources:

1. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study on the improvement of sleep quality with Earthing mat (2025)

2. Earthing Method as a Lifestyle Medicine to Accelerate the Healing of Chronic Diabetic Wounds (2024)

3. Prevention and Treatment of COVID-19 Infection by Earthing (2023)

4. The Effect of Earthing Mat on Stress-Induced Anxiety-like Behavior and Neuroendocrine Changes in the Rat (2023)

5. Grounding – The Universal Anti-Inflammatory Remedy (2022)

6. The Effects of Grounding on Meditation Quality: Preliminary Study Report – A Case Series (2022)

7. Prevention and Treatment of COVID-19 Infection by Earthing (2022)

8. Grounding the Body Improves Sleep Quality in Patients with Mild Alzheimer’s Disease: A Pilot Study (2022)

9. Effectiveness of EEG Signal Based on Body Earthing Application (2022)

10. How Localized Grounding, Combined with Conductive Skincare, Improves the Outcomes of the Traditional Skincare? (2021)

11. A double-blind randomized trial to assess the efficacy of Jing Advanced Clinical Massage and Earthing as interventions in the treatment of chronic low back pain (2021)

12. The Effects of Grounding on Meditation Quality: A Preliminary Study Report (2019)

13. Effectiveness of Grounded Sleeping on Recovery after Intensive Eccentric Muscle Loading (2019)

14. The Effects of Grounding (Earthing) on Bodyworkers’ Pain and Overall Quality of Life: A Randomized Controlled Trial (2019)

15. Grounding Patients With Hypertension Improves Blood Pressure: A Case History Series Study (2018)

16. Effects of Grounding (Earthing) on Massage Therapists (2018)

17. Classification of EEG Signal for Body Earthing Application (2018)

18. Electrical Grounding Improves Vagal Tone in Preterm Infants (2017)

19. Prevention and Treatment of Influenza, Influenza-Like Illness, and Common Cold by Herbal, Complementary, and Natural Therapies (2017)

20. Effects of Grounding on Body Voltage and Current in the Presence of Electromagnetic Fields (2016)

21. Health Effects of Alkaline Diet and Water, Reduction of Digestive-tract Bacterial Load, and Earthing (2016)

22. Grounding After Moderate Eccentric Contractions Reduces Muscle Damage (2015)

23. One-Hour Contact with the Earth’s Surface (Grounding) Improves Inflammation and Blood Flow—A Randomized, Double-Blind, Pilot Study (2015)

24. The Effect of Grounding the Human Body on Mood (2015)

25. Grounding the Human Body during Yoga Exercise with a Grounded Yoga Mat Reduces Blood Viscosity (2015)

26. An Experimental Study on Immediate Effect of Direct Barefoot Contact with Earth on Prehypertension (2015)

27. Grounding the Human Body Improves Facial Blood Flow Regulation (2014)

28. Differences in Blood Urea and Creatinine Concentrations in Earthed and Unearthed Subjects during Cycling Exercise and Recovery (2013)

29. Earthing (Grounding) the Human Body Reduces Blood Viscosity—a Major Factor in Cardiovascular Disease (2013)

30. Earthing the Human Organism Influences Bioelectrical Processes (2012)

31. Emotional Stress, Heart Rate Variability, Grounding, and Improved Autonomic Tone: Clinical Applications (2011)

32. Earthing the Human Body Influences Physiologic Processes (2011)

33. Pilot Study on the Effect of Grounding on Delayed-Onset Muscle Soreness (2010)

34. Earthing effects in Lewis Rats (2010)

35. Changes in Pulse Rate, Respiratory Rate, Blood Oxygenation, Perfusion Index, Skin Conductance, and Their Variability Induced During and After Grounding Human Subjects for 40 Minutes (2010)

36. The Effect Of Earthing On Human Physiology, Part 2 (2007)

37. The Effect Of Earthing On Human Physiology, Part 1 (2006)

38. The Effectiveness of a Conductive Patch and a Conductive Bed Pad in Reducing Induced Human Body Voltage Via the Application of Earth Ground (2005)

39. The Biologic Effects of Grounding the Human Body During Sleep as Measured by Cortisol Levels and Subjective Reporting of Sleep, Pain, and Stress (2004)

40. Thermography Case Histories (2004-2005)

41. Initial Grounding Experimentation by Clint Ober (2000)

Additional Notes

• Most studies are small, pilot, or case series, and many are published in journals with varying levels of peer review.

• The field is still considered under-researched, and more large-scale, independent studies are needed to confirm findings.

References

• https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4378297/

• https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9855809/

• https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10105031/

• https://earthinginstitute.net/research/

Grounding after moderate eccentric contractions reduces muscle damage. Brown R, Chevalier G, Hill M. Open Access J Sports Med. 2015 Sep 21;6:305-17. doi: 10.2147/OAJSM.S87970.

The effects of grounding (earthing) on inflammation, the immune response, wound healing, and prevention and treatment of chronic inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. Oschman JL, Chevalier G, Brown R. J Inflamm Res. 2015 Mar 24;8:83-96. doi: 10.2147/JIR.S69656.

The effect of grounding the human body on mood. Chevalier G. Psychol Rep. 2015 Apr;116(2):534-42. doi: 10.2466/06.PR0.116k21w5.

Earthing (grounding) the human body reduces blood viscosity-a major factor in cardiovascular disease. Chevalier G, Sinatra ST, Oschman JL, Delany RM. J Altern Complement Med. 2013 Feb;19(2):102-10. doi: 10.1089/acm.2011.0820.

Earthing: health implications of reconnecting the human body to the Earth’s surface electrons. Chevalier G, Sinatra ST, Oschman JL, Sokal K, Sokal P.J Environ Public Health. 2012;2012:291541. doi: 10.1155/2012/291541. Review.

The biologic effects of grounding the human body during sleep as measured by cortisol levels and subjective reporting of sleep, pain, and stress. Ghaly M, Teplitz D. J Altern Complement Med. 2004 Oct;10(5):767-76.

Medical Thermography CASE STUDIES, Dr. William Amalu, President, International Academy of Clinical Thermography, Clinical Earthing Application in 20 Case Studies. Researcher: William Amalu, DC, DABCT, FIACT

Earthing the Human Body Influences Physiologic Processes, Karol Sokal, MD, PhD¹ and Pawel Sokal, MD, PhD,  Journal of Alternative Complementary Medicine 2011 Apr; 17(4): 301–308.

Electrical Grounding Improves Vagal Tone in Preterm Infants. by Passi R¹, Doheny KK, Gordin Y, Hinssen H, Palmer C, Neonatology. 2017;112(2):187-192. doi: 10.1159/000475744. Epub 2017 Jun 10.

Electric Nutrition: The Surprising Health and Healing Benefits of Biological Grounding (Earthing). Sinatra ST, Oschman JL, Chevalier G, Sinatra D.

The neuromodulative role of earthing Paweł Sokal, Karol Sokal

A review of all the Earthing research conducted to date can be found here at the online website of the Journal of Environmental Health and Policy at http://www.hindawi.com/journals/jeph/2012/291541/

Effectiveness of Grounded Sleeping on Recovery After Intensive Eccentric Muscle Loading 

Grounding Patients With Hypertension Improves Blood Pressure: A Case History Series Study 

The effects of grounding (earthing) on bodyworkers’ pain and overall quality of life: A randomized controlled trial 

Effects of Grounding (Earthing) on Massage Therapists: An Exploratory Study 

Electric Nutrition: The Surprising Health and Healing Benefits of Biological Grounding (Earthing).

Electrical Grounding Improves Vagal Tone in Preterm Infants. 

Effects of Grounding on Body Voltage and Current in the Presence of Electromagnetic Fields. 

Grounding after moderate eccentric contractions reduces muscle damage. 

One-Hour Contact with the Earth’s Surface (Grounding) Improves Inflammation and Blood Flow—A Randomized, Double-Blind, Pilot Study 

The effects of grounding (earthing) on inflammation, the immune response, wound healing, and prevention and treatment of chronic inflammatory and autoimmune diseases 

The effect of grounding the human body on mood. 

Grounding the Human Body during Yoga Exercise with a Grounded Yoga Mat Reduces Blood Viscosity 

Earthing: Health Implications of Reconnecting the Human Body to the Earth’s Surface Electrons 

Emotional Stress, Heart Rate Variability, Grounding, and Improved Autonomic Tone: Clinical Applications 

For further reading, case studies, research and personal reports, visit www.earthinginstitute.net as well a resource book ‘Earthing’ by Clinton Ober

11:35, August 8, 1969, The Beatles crossed the Abbey Read to be captured for their famous LP cover. Paul McCartney started the trend of grounding or earthing by walking barefoot.

Grounding earthing routine of Paul McCartney of the Beatles

Other celebrities that embraced grounding are Gwyneth Paltrow and Oliva Colman, who accepted an award barefoot at a London ceremony.

Warning About Grounding

As always, consult your doctor if you have any underlying health conditions or using certain medication (blood thinners), use medical devices such as pacemakers, or are pregnant before starting grounding practices, including the use of grounding mats. Improper installation or use of grounding mats – especially in environments with high electromagnetic fields or faulty electrical systems – can increase the risk of electric shock, amplify electromagnetic exposure, or cause other adverse effects. Always ensure your grounding equipment is certified, check outlets for proper grounding, and monitor your body’s response to grounding practices.

The post Grounding or Earthing to Protect from Electro-smog and Boost Health (Reduce Inflammation and Stress) appeared first on Feng Shui London UK • The Capital Feng Shui Consultant.

What is a chaga mushroom?

Chaga mushroom (Inonotus obliquus) is a fungi that grows on birch trees and is the most potent antioxidant on this planet. It tops the other famous antioxidants such as green tea, moringa tree and many more.

12 facts about chaga and benefits of chaga

Click here to see the 12 facts about chaga as a large image

Beneficial health properties of chaga mushrooms

Chaga is a primary adaptogen, cancer fighter, immune system modulator, anti-tumor agent, gastrointestinal tonifier, longevity tonic and genoprotective agent (DNA-shielding).
Chaga’s purifying, detoxifying and healing properties have been known in Russia for centuries. People in Siberia still brew and drink chaga instead of black tea or coffee. Russian scientists have noticed that in areas where people regularly drink chaga tea, the rate of cancerous diseases among local folk have been much lower than in other regions and illnesses connected with stomach are almost unknown there. Many people in Siberia who drink chaga daily, usually live very long and healthy lives, some even over 100 years.

Chaga mushrooms contain: polysaccharides, alkalines, phyto-nutrients, organic acids and many important minerals and micro-elements such as calcium, zinc, magnesium, chromium and others. Various substances found in chaga possess powerful anticancer and anti-tumor properties. Many anticancer properties are now being attributed to beta glucans and melanin. Chaga has a high level of melanin that protects DNA and fights radiation by activating the pineal gland.

According to the Russian Medical Academy, chaga mushrooms:

• have a positive effect against lung and liver cancer
• calm the nervous system
• are proven to positively affect various stomach diseases and ulcers
• stimulate the immune system
• help to reduce blood sugar and fight diabetes

In Russia, chaga was approved for public use against cancer by the Medical Academy of Science in Moscow in 1955. Therefore Russian scientists are very confident about the healing properties of chaga, because numerous studies and clinical trials have been conducted in this country since then.

There is a vast amount of research on the beneficial health properties of chaga mushrooms: (*Further research and references are below)

• Highly valued throughout Asia and Europe as both a health super food, tonic, brain booster and a potent medicine
• Improves health, preserves youth and increases longevity and boosts ‘chi’ (life energy)
• Using chaga mushrooms can help to get rid of stones and sand in kidneys (nephrolith)
• As a result of more than 1600 research studies over the past 40 years – including anti-cancer and anti-tumor research – immune deficiencies, diabetes, HIV, hormonal imbalance in vivo and in vitro studies have been improved
• Siberian chaga mushrooms studies include research into: breast, lung, stomach, melanoma, rectal, liver  and pulmonary cancers, diabetes, ulcers, TB, cardiovascular-related, leukemia, and HIV (see the extensive chaga research below)
• Supportive clinical results: 85% and 78% reduction on lung and breast carcinoma, respectively; 89.9% erythrocytes in bone marrow. Research shows that beta glucans found in chaga can ward off tumors, cardiovascular, immune deficiencies, viral, bacterial, and parasitic diseases

In short, chaga mushrooms are one of the most potent superfoods, tonics and natural medicines available.

Interest in chaga in the West began when Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn’s 1967 book Cancer Ward introduced his readers to chaga’s use as a traditional Slavic anti-cancer remedy. Another traditional remedy (related to birch trees) for all kinds of health problems (including caner) is birch sap juice which has similar health benefits such as detoxing and antioxidant properties.

Chaga mushrooms and antioxidants comparison table

Chaga mushrooms have the highest ORAC score (Oxygen Radical Absorbent Capacity) for antioxidants ever recorded in any natural food!
Chaga mushrooms extract has 1,104 ORAC units per gram. Compared with other foods rich in antioxidants, such as acai, pomegranates and blueberries, chaga mushrooms much higher in antioxidants, with more capacity to wipe out free radicals. Chaga is the most powerful, concentrated antioxidants known on this planet (my second favourite antioxidant tea comes from the moringa tree and then organic green tea). Antioxidants improve health and slow ageing because, as the National Cancer Institute explains: “Antioxidants protect cells from damage caused by unstable molecules known as free radicals.”

Top antioxidant foods (according to researchers at the Human Nutrition Research Center on Ageing at Tufts University):
Fruits: 1. Prunes  2. Raisins  3. Blueberries  4. Blackberries  5. Strawberries  6. Raspberries  7. Plums  8. Oranges 9. Red grapes  10. Cherries
Vegetables: 1. Kale  2. Spinach  3. Brussels sprouts  4. Alfalfa sprouts  5. Broccoli flowers  6. Beetroot  7. Red bell peppers      8. Onions  9. Corn (but best to avoid since all corn is genetically modified now) 10. Eggplant

How to use chaga mushrooms

1) Drink tea made of chaga mushrooms. This is my favourite way. It’s very easy. Get chaga mushroom online or better still try to find it locally (although this might be easier said than done!) Boil a small piece of chaga in a large amount of water for 30 minutes and then drink the tea. If it’s too strong, dilute it with some boiled water. You can reuse it for at least a month! Just add some more water next day and this time boil it for 1-2 minutes and then drink the tea. Keep reusing it until the tea is very weak – i.e. the colour is almost white. If the chaga tea is not too strong it has a very nice taste. I use glass cookware and keep the chaga on my stove all the time, drinking it two to three times a day or whenever I need it. (It’s a great anti-hangover remedy because it’s highly alkaline and detoxing). If you’re not using it continuously, then dry whatever is left over in an oven (NOT microwave oven!) and you can keep it for a long time (otherwise, if you leave it in the open air for a couple of days it will become mouldy!). NOTE: Rinse your mouth after drinking chaga tea – especially when it becomes very dark – because it might colour your teeth if you’re drinking it daily.

2) Chaga mushrooms drops. You can get chaga mushroom in liquid form / drops online – just add it to water.

3) Chaga mushroom tablets. The chaga mushroom tablets are an easy way to take chaga.

4) Chaga mushroom powder is another way to take chaga. Just boil the powder and drink it or pour it into your unadulterated bath water.

But I believe the best way to get the most benefit from chaga mushrooms is to drink the tea.

Other products from birch trees
To completely embrace the birch tree healing properties, I use only xylitol – a healthy sugar alternative made of birch tree and I drink birch juice/sap.

Precautions for use of chaga
There is little evidence of contraindications for using chaga, but one should be aware of taking chaga in conjunction with immune suppressing medicines, the effects of which chaga may negate (e.g. cyclosporin containing products, used after a transplant). Additionally, consuming chaga mushroom in combination with blood-thinning medications may magnify their effects. Chaga may also interact with diabetes medications, which may cause blood sugar levels to fall too low. The long-term use of chaga in people with damaged nervous system may result in hyperexcitability. Chaga is not recommended for use in the case of several intestinal diseases such as chronic colitis or dysentery. Chaga  may magnify the effects of anticoagulant medications such as warfarin and aspirin. Chaga is contraindicated for patients who are using penicillin or glucose given intravenously. It is always best to consult your doctor first, especially if you have some chronic diseases, or are pregnent or using specific medication (especially anticoagulant and hypoglycemic drugs).

How chaga mushrooms look like and where to find them

Chaga mushrooms are quite rare and not easy to find. The grow on birch trees (sometimes chaga is called birch mushroom) and usually like wet terrain, near rivers or streams. Chaga mushrooms like cold weather and are more present in northern parts of countries (Scandinavia, Russia, Poland, Canada, etc). If you want to see the range of images of chaga mushrooms just google ‘chaga mushroom’ and click on Images. The chaga specimen below, I found in Poland. I was lucky because it was winter and there were no leaves on the trees so I could spot it easily.

My first chaga mushroom – harvested on 3 February 2014 in Poland

Chaga mushroom broken in half to reveal how it looks inside

Jan Cisek and his first chaga mushroom found in Poland

Chaga mushrooms are quite rare and difficult to find so I was over the moon when I spotted my first chaga mushroom by the road in Poland (I’ve been looking for chaga for over a year now). It was growing very high on the birch tree, 4 meters above the ground, but I’ve managed to knocked it down with a very long piece of wood.

Where to buy chaga online

Oliveleaf has a selection of chaga mushroom products that are very easy to use.

Chaga mushroom products

*Chaga mushrooms research and references (a selection)

Some of the research and reference on chaga mushrooms’ healing properties are listed below

Farmakol Toksikol. 1958 Sep-Oct;21(5):89-90. Russian. No abstract available. PMID: 13609697 [PubMed – OLDMEDLINE]

Anonymous. 2004. Cytotoxic effect of Inonotus obliquus composition in HCT-15 human colon and AGS gastric cancer cells. Journal of the Korean Society of Food Science and Nutrition. 33:633-640.

Alves, R. E., et al. 2002. Camu camu (Myrciaria dubia Mc Vaugh): a rich natural source of vitamin C. Proc. Interamer. Soc. Trop. Hort. 46:11-13.

Ajith, T. A. and K. K. Janardhanan. 2007. Indian medicinal mushrooms as a source of antioxidant and antitumor agents. J. Clin. Biochem. Nutr. 40:157.

Babitskaya, V. G,, Scherba, V. V., Ikonnikova, N.V., Bisko, N.A., and N.Y. Mitropoiskaya. 2002. Melanin complex from medicinal mushroom Inonotus obliquus (Pers:Fr.) Pilat (Chaga) (Aphyllophoromycetidae). Int. J. Med. Mushrooms. 4:139-45.

Babitskaya, V. G,, Scherba, V. V., Ikonnikova, N.V., Bisko, N.A., and N.Y. Mitropoiskaya. 2002. Melanin complex from medicinal mushroom Inonotus obliquus (Pers:Fr.) Pilat (Chaga) (Aphyllophoromycetidae). Int. J. Med. Mushrooms. 4:139-45.

Bobek, P., Ozdin, L., and I. Kajaba. 1997. Dose-dependent hypocholesterolemic effect of oyster mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus) in rats. Physiol Res. 47:327-329.

Bobek, P. and S. Galbavy. 1999. Hypocholesteremic and antiatherogenic effect of oyster mushroom (Pleurotus osteratus) in rabbits. Nahrung. 43:339-342.

Burczyk, J., Gawron, A. Slotwinska, M., Smietana, B., and K. Terminiska. 1996. Antimitotic activity of aqueous extracts of Inonotus obliquus. Boll. Chim. Farm. 135:306.

Chang, S. T. 1999. Global impact edible and medicinal mushrooms on human welfare in the 21st century: non-green evolution. Int. J. Med. Mushr. 1:1-7.

Chen, C., Zheng, W., Gao, X., Xiang, X., Sun, D., Wei, J., and C. Chu. 2007. Aqueous extract of Inonotus obliquus (Fr.) pilat (Hymenochaetaceae) significantly inhibits the growth of sarcoma 180 by inducing apoptosis. American Journal of Pharmacology and Toxicology. 2:10-17.

Chihara, G., Maeda, Y., Sasaki, T. and F. Fukuoaka. 1969. Inhibition of mouse sarcoma 180 by polysaccharides from Letin us eodes (Berk.) Nature. 222:687.

Chorvathova, V., et al. 1993. Effect of oyster fungus on glycemia and cholesterolaemia in rats with insluin-dependent diabetes. Physiol. Res. 42:175-179.

Cui, Yo, Kim, D. S., and K. C. Park. 2005. Antioxidant effects of Inonotus Oblique. J. Ethnopharmacol. 96:79-85.

de Sa, M. S., et al. 2009. Antimalarial activity of betulinic acid and derivatives in vitro against Plasmodium falciprum and in vivo in P. Berghel-infected mice. Parisitol. Res. Jul;105:275-279.

Fulda, S, et al. 1997. Betulinic acid triggers CD95 (APO-1/Fas)- and p53-independent apoptosis via activation of capases in neuroectodermal tumors. Cancer Research. 57:4956.

Fulda, S. 2008. Betulinic acid for cancer treatment and prevention. Int. J. Mol. Sci. 9:1096-1107.

Fulda, S., Jeremias, I., Pietsch, T. and K. M. Debatin. Betulinic acid: a new chemotherapeutic agent in the treatment of neuroectodermal tumors. Klin Padiatr. 211:319-322.

Gu, Y. and S. Gowsala. 2006. Cytotoxic effect of oyster mushroom Pleurotus ostreatus on human androgen-independent prostate cancer PC-3 cells. J. Med. Food. 9:196-204.

Ham, S. S., et al. 2003. Antimutagenic and cytotoxic effects of ethanol extract from the Inonotus obliquus. J. Korean Soc. Food Sci. Nutr. 32:1088-94.

Hawksworth, D. L. 2001. Mushrooms: the extent of the unexplored potential. Int. J. Med. Mushr. 2:1-9.

Hossain, S., et al. 2003. Dietary mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus) ameliorates atherogenic lipid in hypercholesterolaemic rats. Clin. Exp. Pharmacol. Physiol. 30:470-475.

Hyun, K. W., Jeong, S. C., Lee, D. H., Park, J. S., and J. S. Lee. 1996. Isolation and characterization of a novel platelet aggregation inhibitory peptide from the medicinal mushroom, Inonotus obliquus. Boll. Chim. Farm. 135:306-309.

In-Kyoung, L., Young-Sook, K., Yoon-Woo, J., Jin-Young, J., and Y. Bong-Suk. 2007. New antioxidant polyphenols from the medicinal mushroom Inonotus obliquus. Bioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry Letters. 17:6678-6681.

Jeremias, I., et al. 2004. Cell death induction by betulinic acid, ceramide, and TRAIL in primary glioblastoma multiforme cells. Acta Neurochirurgica. 146:721-729.

Kahlos, K., Kangas, L., and R. Hiltunen. 1987. Antitumor activity of some compounds and fractions from an n-hexane extract of Inonotus obliquus in vitro. Acta Pharm. Fennica. 96:33-40.

Kharazmi, A. 2008. Laboratory and preclinical studies on the anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties of rosehip powder—identification and characterization of the active component GOPO. Osteoarhritis and Cartilage. 16:55-57.

Kim, B. K., Shin, G.G., Jeong, B.S., and J.Y. Cha. 2001. Cholesterol lowering effect of mushrooms powder in hyperlipidemic rats. J. Korean Soc. Food Sci. Nutr. 30:510-515.

Kim, Y. O., et al. 2005. Immuno-stimulatory effect of the endopolysaccharide produced by submerged culture of Inonotus obliquus. Life Sci. 77:2438-56.

Kim,Y. O., et al. 2006.Anti-cancer effect and structural characterisation of endo-polysaccharide from cultivated mycelia of Inonotus obliquus. Life Sci. 79:72-80.

Koyama, T., Yeunhwa, G., and T. Akira. 2008. Fungal medicine, Fuscoporia obliqua, as a traditional herbal medicine, in vivo testing and medicinal effects. Asian Biomedicine. 2:459-469.

Kraus-Zaki, J. 1957. (In Polish) ACTH jako czynnik hydrolizujacy kwasy dezoksyrybonukleinowe w zastosowaniu do bada cytoenzymatycznych. Haematologica. 1:48-50.

Krauss-Zaki, J. 1962. Correspondence: Digestion of Cell Nucleus by Enzymes. Blood Journal. 19:527.

Lindequist, U., Niedermeyer, T. H. J., and W-D Julich. 2005. The pharmacological potential of mushrooms. Institute of Pharmacy, Greifswald, Germany.

Lull, C., Wichers, H. J., and H. F. J. Savelkoul. 2005. Antiinflammatory and immunomodulating properties of fungal metabolites (In) Mediators of Inflammation. Hindawi Publishing Corp.

McCord, J. M. and I. Fridovich. 1988. Superoxide dismutase: the first twenty years (1968-1988). Free Radic. Biol. Med. 5(5-6):363-369.

Mizuno, T., et al. 1999. Antitumor and hypoglycemic activities of polysaccharides from Sclerotia and mycelia of Inonotus obliquus. Int. J. Med. Mushrooms. 1:306.

Mizuno, T. 1999. The extraction and development of antitumor-active polysaccharides from medicinal mushrooms in Japan (review). Int. J. Med. Mushr. 1:9-30.

Mothana, R. A. A., Awadh, N. A. A., Jansen, R.,Wegner, U., Mentel, R., and U. Lindequist. 2003. Antiviral lanostanoid triterpenes from the fungus Ganoderma pfeifferi BRES Fitoteraia. 74:483-485.

Mullauer, F. B., Kessler, J. H., and J. P.Medema. Betulin is a potent antitumor agent that is enhanced by cholesterol. 2009. (by) Laboratory for Experimental Oncology and Radiology, PLoS One; 4(4)

Muller, F. L., et al. 2006. Absence of CuZn superoxide dismutase leads to elevated oxidative stress and acceleration of age-dependent skeletal muscle atrophy. Free Radic. Biol. Med. 40:1993-2004.

Najafzadeh, M., et al. 2007. Chaga mushroom extract inhibits oxidative DNA damage in lymphocytes of patients. Biofactors. 31:191-200.

Nakagawa-Goto, K., Taniguchi, M., Tokuda, H., and K. H. Lee. 2008. Cancer preventive agents 9. Betulinic acid derivatives as potent cancer chemopreventive agents. Bioorg. Med. Chem. Lett. 1;19:3378-3381.

Nasar-Abbas, S. M. and A. Kadir Haikman. 2004. Antimicrobial effect of water extract of sumac (Rhus coriaria L.) on the growth of some food borne bacteria, including pathogens. J. Food Micro. 10:1016.

Nicolson, G. L., et al. 2000. Diagnosis and integrative treatment of intercelluar bacterial infections in chronic fatigue and fibromyalgia syndromes, GulfWar Illness, and rheumatoid arthritis and other chronic illnesses. Clin. Prac. Alt. Med. 1:92.

Nicolson, G. L. 2002. Co-infections in fibromyalgia syndrome, chronic fatigue syndrome, and other chronic illnesses. National Fibromyalgia Partnership—Fibromyalgia Frontiers. 10:5-9; 27-28.

Papas, A. M. (ed). 1999. Anitoxidant Status, Diet, Nutrition, and Health. Boca Raton: CRC Press. Park,Y. M., et al. 2005. In vivo and in vitro anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive effects of the methanol extract of Inonotus obliquus. J. Ethnopharmacol. 101:120-128.

Park,Y. M., et al. 2007. In vivo and in vitro anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive effects of the methanol extract of Inonotus obliquus. J. Med. Food. 10:80-90.

Rein, E., Kharazmi, A., and K. Winther. 2004. A herbal remedy, Hyben Vital (stand. Powder of Rosa canina fruits) reduces pain and improves general welbeing in patients with osteoarthritis- a double-blind, placebo controlled randomized trial. Phytomedicine. 11:383.

Rzymowska, J. 1996. The effect of aqueous extracts from Inonotus obliquus on the mitotic index and enzyme activities. Boll Chim. Farm. 135:306-309.

Sarkar, F. H. andY. Li. 2006. Using chemoprevention agents to enhance the efficacy of cancer therapy. Cancer Res. 66:3347.

Sawada, N., et al. 2004. Betulinic acid augments the inhibitory effects of vincristine on growth and lung metastasis of B16F10 melanoma cells in mice. British Cancer Journal. 90:1672.

Scott, Cyril. 1944. Health, Diet, and Common Sense. London: the Homeopathic Publishing Co.

Shin, Y., Tamai, Y., and M. Terazawa. 2000. Chemical constituents of Inonotus obliquus sclerotium. Eurasian Journal of Forest Research. 1:43-50.

Shivrina, A.N. 1967. Chemical characteristics of compounds extracted from Inonotus obliquus. Chem. Abstr. 66:17271-17279.

Sudhakar, C., Sabitha, P., Shashi, K. R. and S. Safe. 2007. Betulinic acid inhibits prostate cancer growth through inhibition of specificity protein transcription factors. Cancer Research. 67:2816.

Sung, B., et al. 2008. Identification of a novel blocker of lkappaBalpha kinase activation that enhances apoptosis and inhibits proliferation and invasion by suppressing nuclear factor-kappaB. Mol. Cancer Ther. 7:19-201.

Takada, Y. and B. B. Aggarawal. 2003. Betulinic acid suppresses carcinogen-induced NF-kB activation through inhibition of lkappaB alpha kinase and p65 phosphorylation: abrogation of cyclooxygenase-2 and matrix metalloprotease-9. Journal of Immunology. 171:3278.

Wang, H., Gao, J., and T. B. Ng. 2000. A new lectin with highly potent antihepatoma and antisarcoma activities from the oyster mushroom Pleurotus ostreatus. Biochem. Biophys. Res. Commun. 275:810-816.

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Winther, K., Apel, K. and G. Thamsborg. 2005. A powder made from seeds and shells of a rose-hip subspecies (Rosa canina) reduces symptoms of knew and hip osteoarhritis: A randomized, double-blind placebo controlled trial. Scand J. Rheumatol. 34:302.

Yesilada, E., et al. 1997. Inhibitory effects of Turkish folk remedies on inflammatory cytokin: interleukin-1 alpha, interleukin-1 beta, and tumor necrosis factor alpha. J. Ethnopharmacol. 58:59-73.

Ying-Mee, T., Yu, Rong, and J. M. Pezzuto. 2003. Betulinic acid induced programmed cell death in human melanoma cells involves mitogen-activated protein kinase activation. Clinical Cancer Research. 9:2866.

Joo, J.I., Kim, D.H., Yun, J.W. 2010. “Extract of Chaga mushroom (Inonotus obliquus) stimulates 3T3-L1 adipocyte differentiation.” Phytother Res. 24 (11):1592-9. doi: 10.1002/ptr.3180.

Ko, S.K., Jin, M., Pyo, M.Y. 2011. “Inonotus obliquus extracts suppress antigen-specific IgE production through the modulation of Th1/Th2 cytokines in ovalbumin-sensitized mice.” J Ethnopharmacol. 137 (3):1077-82. E-pub July 28, 2011.

Najafzadeh, M., Reynolds, P.D., Baumgartner, A., Jerwood, D., Anderson, D. 2007 “Chaga mushroom extract inhibits oxidative DNA damage in lymphocytes of patients with inflammatory bowel disease.” Mol Cells. 31 (2):165-73. E-pub Dec. 22, 2010.

Park, Y.K., Lee, H.B., Jeona, E-J., Jungb, H.S., Kang, M.H. 2004. “Chaga mushroom extract inhibits oxidative DNA damage in human lymphocytes as assessed by comet assay” BioFactors 21:109-112.

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Лукина Н.В. Заметки о системе питания хантов // Западная Сибирь в эпо­ху средневековья, Изд-во Томского ун-та, Томск, 1984, с. 168-179.

Sekiba F. An account of Ainu medicine. In: A collection of materials on the Ainu history. Private publication (in Japanese), 1895.

Hutchens, Alma R., (1973) Indian Herbology (sic) of North America. Merco, Windsor, Ont., Canada

П.А. Якимов, М.Ф. Ступак, Чага и ее лечебное применение при раке IV стадии, Медгиз, Ленинград, 1959. с. 50-54.

Watanabe O, Abe T, Kawakami M, Kakimoto M (2005) Antioxidation by water-soluble lignin-like substance from a northern terrain basidiomycetes, Fuscoporia obliqua. Bull Hokkaido Food Processing Res Center. 6 : 13-6.

Kahlos, K. and Hiltunen, R. 1983. ‘Identification of some lanostane type triterpenes from Inonotus Obliquus’. Acta. Pharm. Fenn., 92, 220

Kahlos, K. and Hiltunen, R. 1985. ‘Sterols and triterpenes in Inonotus Obliquus’. Acta. Agron., 34, 82

Kahlos, K. and Hiltunen, R. 1986. ‘Anti-tumor tests of Inotodiol from the fungus Inonotus Obliquus’. Acta. Pharm. Fenn., 95, 173-7

Yong Cui, et.al;(2005) Antioxidant effect of Inonotus obliquus. Journal of Ethnopharmacology 96, p.79–85

ZHENG Wei-Fa, et.al.; (2008) Phenolic compounds from Inonotus obliquus and their immune-stimulating effects. Mycosystema 27(4): 574-581

ZHENG Wei-Fa, et.al.; (2007) Sterol composition in field-grown and cultured mycelia of Inonotus obliquus. Acta Pharmaceutica Sinica 42(7); 750-756

Sharikova, L.A. et.al.; (2010) Standardisation of Chaga tincture and Befungin. Pharmaceutical Chemistry Journal, Vol. 44(3) p. 35-37

David Pilz (2004) Chaga and Other Fungal Resources – Assessment of Sustainable Commercial Harvesting in Khabarovsk and Primorsky Krais, Russia. PilzWald Forestry Applications of Mycology (assessment report)

JACEK PIĘTKA and ANDRZEJ GRZYWACZ; (2006) Attempts at active protection of Inonotus obliquus by inoculating birches with its mycelium. ACTA MYCOLOGICA Vol. 41 (2): 305-312

Disclaimer
The information contained in this post is intended for informational and educational purposes only. Any statements made on this post have not been evaluated by the FDA and any information or products discussed are not intended to diagnose, cure, treat or prevent any disease or illness. Please consult a healthcare practitioner before making changes to your diet or taking supplements that may interfere with medications.

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Electromagnetic Radiation and Health Conference: Evidence, Diagnosis and Management
Scientific conference on electrosensitivity and the health effects of electromagnetic radiation

FRIDAY 7 MARCH 2014
Venue: Hallam Conference Centre, Hallam St, London W1W 6JJ
Price: £150
Find out more or register on our website www.bsem.org.uk

Organiser: Rachel Nicoll

Diagnosis and Management of Electromagnetic Hypersensitivity (EHS): Rapid Overview for a mixed audience by Dr Erica Mallery-Blythe

0900: Registration
0930: Dr Damien Downing: Welcome from the BSEM President Rachel Nicoll Introduction to the day
Professor Denis Henshaw: EM radiation and Health
Alasdair Philips: EM radiation – what does it all mean for the layman?
Michael Bevington: EM radiation: the legal and political scene
1045: Coffee
1115: Rachel Nicoll: EM radiation and animal studies
Alasdair Philips: EM radiation and human studies – why the results differ from animal studies
Professor Denis Henshaw: EM radiation, childhood leukaemia and melatonin (own research)
Professor Martin Pall: EMFs, intracellular calcium imbalance and the NO cycle
1250: Lunch
1350: Michael Bevington: Electrosensitivity: Symptoms and impact
Dr Erica Mallery-Blythe: Electrosensitivity: Clinical diagnosis and management and own research
Dr John Kelsey (Saferwave): Review of RF protection approaches, devices and testing
Alasdair Philips (EMFields): Reducing Exposure – EMF detection and remediation
1530: Tea
1600: Dr John McLaren Howard: Biochemistry of electrosensitivity
Dr Jean Monro: Nutritional solutions
Dr John Kelsey: Earthing
Dr John McLaren Howard: Earthing case study
1730 Finish

ELECTROMAGNETIC RADIATION AND HEALTH: EVIDENCE, DIAGNOSIS AND MANAGEMENT 

CONFERENCE SPEAKERS 

Professor Denis L Henshaw
Following a research career spanning 38 years, Denis Henshaw is Emeritus Professor of Human Radiation Effects at the University of Bristol. In retirement he is Honorary Scientific Director at Children with Cancer UK. Denis’s early research was in Astrophysics, but he branched out to pioneer new techniques for measuring natural alpha-radioactivity in the environment. Over a 24-year period, under Medical Research Council Programme Grant support, he led a team studying natural alpha-radioactive particles in the human body, including their transplacental transfer to the foetus. He predicted a link between the natural radioactive gas radon and leukaemia, publishing in The Lancet in 1990 a series of associations between domestic radon exposure and incidence of childhood leukaemia. This led to work by others revealing genomic instability of cells irradiated with alpha-particles. In the mid-1990s he and his team made extensive measurements of alpha-radioactivity in the Chernobyl exclusion zone resulting from the accident at Reactor IV on 26th April 1986.
In the mid-1990s, Denis and his colleagues developed the hypothesis that corona ions emitted from high-voltage overhead powerlines, could mediate adverse health effects, beyond the range of the direct electric and magnetic fields. The hypothesis predates four subsequent epidemiological findings, three in children and one in adults, of increased risk of leukaemia up to 600 metres from powerlines. Complementing this research, Denis has been a leader in the study of underlying mechanisms by which exposure to magnetic fields from the electricity supply may increase the risk of a number of cancer and non-cancer illnesses, notably via melatonin disruption.
Denis has published over 250 scientific papers. He has contributed to Parliamentary select committee and other reports by Official bodies in the UK and overseas, and the World Health Organisation, including membership of the UK Stakeholder Advisory Group for EMF (SAGE).

Professor Martin L Pall
Martin Pall is Professor Emeritus of Biochemistry and Basic Medical Sciences at Washington State University. He received his BA degree at Johns Hopkins Univ. and PhD at Caltech. Professor Pall is the author of 90 publications including a 16 chapter book (‘Explaining Unexplained Illnesses’). He received the Jonathan Forman award in Oct. 2013, the highest honour given by the American Academy of Environmental Medicine (AAEM), this being the seventh international honour Pall has received for his work in environmental medicine since 2004. He is a founding faculty member in the Environmental Medicine program in Italy. Prof. Pall is widely known for his work on the NO/ONOO- cycle, a generic mechanism for chronic disease, and is also widely known for his work on how various stressors, including diverse chemicals, initiate cases of such chronic diseases. Pall has published 15 scientific papers since he “retired” from the University five years ago and has given approximately 50 invited talks in nine countries during that time period. Pall’s recent (Aug. 2013) paper on EMF activation of voltage-gated calcium channels is already widely recognized as a seminal paper in the field, and he has already given three professional talks on this topic and submitted two additional papers as well.

Dr Erica Mallery-Blythe
Dr. Mallery-Blythe led emergency trauma teams in hospitals throughout the UK and abroad for over a decade. She had a strong educational role also within Emergency Medicine, and not only instructed doctors of all levels and specialties advanced trauma techniques on ATLS courses, but also educated potential new instructors by teaching on the instructor courses. Around 5 years ago, she was lured away from the trauma room by her observation of emerging radiation induced illness. She began reading existing literature on the subject, specifically regarding biological effects of non-thermal levels of non-ionising radiation. She has now worked with eminent scientists both in the UK and abroad on the subject, and currently fills the following positions: 1. Trustee for the Radiation Research Trust 2. Medical Advisor for Electrosensitivity – UK (ES-UK) 3. Board Member of Child Protection Technology Foundation (CPTF) – US-based group 4. Director of Health for Óver-Achievers In the course of her work for these organisations she constructs and executes research projects, supports individuals with electrohypersensitivity (EHS) and their families, liaises with doctors of all specialties to facilitate optimal care and deal with challenging cases, and improves education and awareness with both medical and public lectures both regarding EHS and effects on the general population. She is currently establishing a UK doctors group for medical professionals who wish to stay current on the issue, offer improved patient care in this rapidly evolving area, and facilitate a more progressive approach here in the UK. If you wish to know more about the group, please do get in touch with her at the end of the lectures and she will describe it further and explain the membership process.

Alasdair Philips DAgrE, BSc(Eng), MIAgrE, MIEEE
Alasdair is a professional engineer (agricultural and electronics), scientific researcher and project manager. He was a Founder Member of the UK Department of Health’s ELF EMF (SAGE) consultation process, a former member of Sir William Stewart’s HPA EMF Discussion Group and a former member of an EC (Brussels) Expert Group on public advice regarding EMF and Health. He has given professional advice to local authorities and presented Expert Evidence to the High Court & Public Inquiries. In 1998, Coghill, Busby and Philips took a case to court on the need for Warning Labels on mobile phones, resulting in the setting up of the Independent Expert Group on Mobile Phones. He also instigated and co-ordinated the CHILDREN with LEUKAEMIA International Scientific Conference on the causes and prevention of childhood leukaemia and was closely involved in organising the Childhood Cancer 2012 conference, London. www.childhoodcancer2012.org.uk
Alasdair has made many appearances on UK radio (R4, R5, and BBC World Service) and TV (BBC1, ITV, CH4, CH5, CNN and Sky News) and is a Member of Scientists for Global Responsibility (On Steering Committee 1992-96). He is the author of ‘Living with Electricity’ and ‘Killing Fields in the Home?’ and co-author of the Powerwatch Handbook (Piatkus Books, 2006). He is also a co-author on the paper Coghill RW, Steward J, Philips A. ‘Extra low frequency electric and magnetic fields in the bedplace of children diagnosed with leukaemia: a case-control study’. Eur J Cancer Prev. 1996 Jun;5(3):153-8. Alasdair has also founded, and is currently a director of, Powerwatch (www.powerwatch.org.uk), an organisation which promotes policies for a safer environment with respect to radiation.

Dr John McLaren Howard
Dr McLaren Howard developed his education and skills while working in the Analytical Research laboratories of Laporte Chemicals and as a Scientific Officer at a UK Government Research Association at Welwyn in Hertfordshire, where he developed new analytical methods. His first papers were on high voltage electrophoresis for the measurement of trace elements and on the formation of calcium sulphato-aluminate crystals. In 1965 John took up the post of Clinical Biochemist at the London Clinic. During 19 years in that hospital he introduced a trace element assessment service and undertook ongoing cooperative work with colleagues in the USA, including work with Dr F W Sunderman Jr on serum nickel as a marker of myocardial infarction. John’s lectures and examination success led to the award of a Doctor of Science degree in 1979. John continued his part time studies at Birkbeck College, University of London under the direction of Prof Peter Sadler, taking the Inorganic Biochemistry in Medicine course.
In 1984, John and Dr Stephen Davies set up Biolab Medical Unit where John became Laboratory Director, a post he held until his retirement in May 2007. During those years John published over 20 papers, contributed to at least seven books and broadcast on a number of subjects related to nutrition in medicine. Following a series of lectures to the college, John became an invited Fellow of the American College of Nutrition. He is also a founder member of and continues to be active in the Inorganic Biochemistry Discussion Group of the Royal Society of Chemistry. Following his retirement from Biolab, John continued his detailed work on ATP and mitochondrial function through his own laboratory (Acumen), based a few miles from his home in Devon, UK. He continues to explore and develop techniques using recent developments in fluorescent microscopy to allow one to ‘see’ clinically important biochemical reactions at the molecular level.

Michael Bevington MA (Oxon.), MEd (O.U.)
Michael Bevington took a degree in Classics at Exeter College, Oxford University, where he was awarded an Open Exhibition. He then passed a PGCE with distinction at King’s College, London, and has since taken an MEd at the Open University. Since 1986 he has been Head of Classics at Stowe School, Buckingham. He is also a team leader for a national examination board, a tutor for Buckingham University, and has published several books and articles, especially on 18th century architecture and garden iconography.
His interest in the biological effects of low-level electromagnetic exposure began in September 2006, when he was sensitised to EM radiation after a WiFi router was installed in his classroom. His case showing harm from WiFi was one of the first to feature in the national press, appearing in the Times and Times Educational Supplement in November and December 2006. This was followed by radio and TV appearances, especially after the BBC Panorama programme on the dangers of WiFi in April 2007. In 2007 he became a trustee of the charity ElectroSensitivity UK (ES-UK) and since 2008 has been its chair. In 2010 he published the first edition of Electromagnetic Sensitivity and Electromagnetic Hyper-Sensitivity: A Summary, revised and enlarged in 2013 to 112 pages with over 1800 scientific references, to help provide key information on the condition for doctors and health officials. He is contributing in a small way to a forthcoming book on Bioelectromagnetic Medicine. He has also edited the quarterly ES-UK Newsletter since 2007.

Dr Jean Monro
Dr Jean Monro has a background in hospital general medicine and worked at the National Hospital for Nervous Diseases, London, researching migraine and multiple sclerosis. She established the Breakspear Hospital for Allergy and Environmental Medicine in 1988 and is currently Medical Director of the Breakspear Medical Group. She was a Consultant at Fachkrankenhaus Nordfriesland, Germany, from 1991 to 2009. She has published widely and regularly speaks at conferences worldwide.
Dr Monro’s primary area of interest is environmental medicine. She started her career as a hospital doctor with an interest in paediatrics and neurology, and moved on to general medicine, subsequently developing a special interest in allergies and environmental medicine.

Dr John Kelsey PhD, ND
John is half smart and keen to use his scientific background that seeks solid substantiation. 25 years of designing toxic waste water plants that had to work reinforced the premise that results are the real basis for success. Scientific explanations are useful, revealing, often demanded, but not always a necessity. Acupuncture is a primary example, where results are visible and scientifically unexplained. At age 50 John changed direction and retrained progressively in Chi Kung healing, meditation practices, basic nutrition, person centred counselling and traditional naturopathy. This provided a balance to the scientific perspective. Having a technological bent, John became involved in biofeedback devices, including user manual, training and certification systems. Devices have formed the basis for ongoing research, in conjunction with a cutting edge clinic in Norway. The EIS/EsTeck offers a rapid and reproducible functional assessment, assessing therapeutic interventions and disturbances. It is the initial assessment approach used for assessing the effect of EMFs and shows a demonstrable effect within 10 minutes. Other approaches (GSR, simple EEG, HRV, BIA, thermography and biofield) are being assessed for which EMF aspects are primary in creating an issue and elaborating mechanisms. Of particular interest is the links between biofield, meridians and organs, especially in the purported benefit of phone protective devices. We would like to indulge a program that can demonstrate EMF effects that can be used in schools, such as plants and the ant tests in Sweden, with the view that this will initiate a viral spread of problem awareness.
Our research indulgence is limited by the need to earn a living! John brought (indoor) Earthing® into Europe, at the strong insistence of Dr James Oschman. This shows significant effects on many peoples’ sleep, pain and inflammation. It is supported by good studies. John is the MD of SaferWave, set up to market a product designed to reduce the effects of phone signals on health by addressing the cause at its roots. John will be presenting the science behind both earthing and phone protection.

Rachel Nicoll
Rachel came to medicine late in life as a result of her own health problems. She is currently studying for a PhD and works as a researcher on, mainly, cardiovascular disease but also has a strong interest in environmental and nutritional medicine. She has written over 20 papers and lectured on aspects of nutritional and environmental medicine and biochemistry.

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Birch water from birth trees

Birch water – a traditional drink
Birch water/sap can be drunk as a tonic and it is a traditional beverage in Poland (you can buy birch water in shops in Poland, but unfortunately it’s sweetened with sugar – so avoid that), Belarus, Ukraine, Russia, Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, Finland and elsewhere in Northern Europe as well as parts of northern China. It is a living birch water which has restorative and detoxifying properties. The traditional virtues of birch and its efficient removal of toxic substances from the liver and kidneys have been known and appreciated for ages. There are very few phytotherapeutic ingredients that are capable of targeting the body’s two major cleansing and purification systems at the same time.

The benefits of birch water / birch sap

Detoxing benefits of birch water
Birch tree contains powerful diuretic properties that help in flushing out harmful toxins, uric acid, and excess water from the body. This in turn helps in eliminating cellulite (Weleda has been selling birch cellulite oil for years now) from the body and treats problems like obesity over time. It also helps in maintaining good kidney and liver health  Nowadays, birch sap/water is used across the globe and is considered to be a highly-effective detoxifying agent that targets two key organs:
• The liver (choleresis): by capturing and neutralising toxic waste products
• The kidneys (diuresis): by eliminating and filtering waste through the urinary tract.
Birch water also contains compounds called saponins, which research suggests to have powerful cholesterol-reducing properties.

Birch water contains only 18 calories per 100ml, less than coconut water.

Birch sap eliminates:
• Toxins that only the liver can process.
These include: alcohol, saturated fat, triglycerides, food colouring, additives, pesticides, remnants of industrially-processed foods, over-cooked fat, and preservatives.
• Waste that only the kidneys can eliminate.
These include: excess salt, uric acid, phosphates, certain medicines, urea, and ammonia. Thanks to these two cleansing properties, birch sap deeply detoxifies the body, making weight loss easier. If you’ve gone overboard over the holidays, then this is the deep detox you require! Birch sap contains natural carbohydrates, organic acids, fruit acids, potassium, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, manganese, zinc, sodium, iron and copper, vitamins B (group), vitamin C. Every year, I consume 8-10 litres of fresh birch sap (and have been for most of my adult life). Birch water destroys uric stones, is effective at treatment of stomach and liver ulcer, headaches, bronchitis, cough, and also at rheumatism, radiculitis and arthritis, removes harmful substances from the body. Regular consumption of birch water has fortifying and tonic action. Above all, birch sap possesses recycling capabilities and stimulates metabolism, it is a fine dietary and refreshing drink.

Having said all that, I found almost no clinical evidence on the health effects of birch sap (mainly because there haven’t been much research done to date on this subject) as opposed to massive research on the health benefits of chaga which grows on birch trees! For instance, one single study suggests that despite the detectable anti-inflammatory, antipyretic and phagocytosis-inhibiting effect of birch sap no therapeutic activity of importance compared with classical and modern antipyretics/analgesics has been demonstrated (Klinger et al., 1989 *).

How to juice a birch tree – tap into birch water
1) Find a birch tree (harvesting the birch sap is time specific i.e. the first warm weeks of spring thaw – when the temperature is about 10C in March-April time – when the birch trees wake up from the winter sleep and then the birch trees can be juice for about couple of weeks). The juice flows best during day – midday – especially when it’s warm and on the warm, sunny side of the tree.
2) Cut the end of one of the branches (another way is to drill a hole in the tree and attach a plastic tube or make a cut in V or Y shapes on the birch tree and attach a bottle underneath).
3) Attach a plastic bottle to that branch.
4) Wait until it fills in with birch juice (depending on the birch tree it might take a few hours  or overnight to fill in the bottle).
5) Drink the birch water or you can freeze it as ice cubes (and use it later with vodka – you can actually buy vodka made from birch tree sap, it’s called ‘brzozowka’ in Ukraine – see how to make birch sap wine below).

The birch juice is probably the best (birch sap has sugar content of about 2%) at the beginning of the juicing season and you can easily juice about 2 to 7 litres of the birch sap a day. The cut or hole in the birch tree will heal naturally so there is no harm to the tree in juicing them or any other trees (you can juice other trees such as maple, walnut, apple, cherry and other 22 trees that can be tapped for sap and syrup).

Birch tree juicing – birch sap juicing

Birch sap wine
You can also make birch juice/sap wine. I haven’t tried this recipe but I’d be interested if instead of sugar one could use xylitol which is a kind of sugar made from birch trees.

Birch sap tincture
You can also get birch juice tincture – birch juice as an organic health supplement to help you detoxify your body I once got lucky and found a freshly cut down trunk of the birch tree. So I made some groves in the trunk to get my birch sap. Although the tree was cut down the birch water was flowing abundantly.

Birch sap from the birch tree trunk

Birch leaf tea
You can also drink birch tree leaf tea. You can buy the birch leaf tea tea online or if you see a birch tree just take some fresh birch leaves and brew them for a few minutes.

Birch trees as air pollution busters
According to Professor Barbara Maher‘s research (at the University of Lancaster), the birch trees were able to absorb more than 50 per cent of the particulate dust — linked to respiratory problems — from passing traffic, much more than other species. London should plant more birch trees. According to some environmental groups air pollution in London is one of the worst in the world.

*Klinger, W., Hirschelmann, R. and Suss, J. 1989. Birch sap and birch leaves extract – screening for antimicrobial, phagocytosis influencing, antiphlogistic and antipyretic activity. Die Pharmazie 44(8):558-560.

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Research suggests that a simple act of chewing your food more will have many health benefits. It makes sense since by chewing you’re helping with pre-digesting the food and making your body more alkaline with your alkaline saliva. More on benefits of chewing food 

Lino Stanchich book POWER EATING PROGRAM You Are How You Eat

Lino Stanchich in his book POWER EATING PROGRAM You Are How You Eat  (available on Kindle as Conscious Eating) suggests that chewing food not only can improve your life and also save your life. Your grandmother might have told you to chew every mouthful of food at least 100 times to stay healthy. The father of Lino, Antoni Stanchich was in a concentration camp in Germany during the second world war and there wasn’t much food to eat and he intuitively discovered that chewing water (because it was so cold) would give him energy. Initially, he would chew each mouth of water 50 times and notice that the more he chew it the more energy he would get. Then he started to chew all his food, 150 times, sometimes 300 times each mouthful. He believed that the magic number for chewing was 150 times. To cut a long story short, people were dying of starvation daily in that camp and Antonio believes that this simple act of chewing helped him to survive. In fact, he and his two friends who were also practising chewing were the only people to survive from his original crew.

Sphere of influence 

The function of feng shui is to change and improve your external circumstances but there are more powerful influences that can impact your life i.e. you and people around you.

“The greatest discovery of any generation is that a human can alter his life by altering his attitude.” William James

When it comes to what has influence over us:

1) We – have the most power to change our lives
2) Others – family, friends and people around us can influence us
3) Feng shui – the immediate environments will influence you
4) Events – world events can have an impact on us

“Fear less, hope more; eat less, chew more; whine less, breathe more; talk less, say more; hate less, love more; and all good things will be yours.” Swedish Proverb

Chewing will help you to eat less. Other ways to eat less are:

• Buy smaller plates or black plates
• Serve food from smaller containers
• Look at the window while you eat or just don’t look at food too much
• Eat organic produce – you’ll get all the nutrients from smaller portions
• Become vegetarian or vegan
• Stop keeping unhealthy snacks where you can easily see them
• Fasting or intermittent fasting
• Circle the buffet and then choose
• Have a mirror in your kitchen – 32% reduction in consumption of unhealthy food because makes you more aware of your body and you’re more likely to eat food that is good for you

Read How chewing for longer helps you eat 30% less: Fascinating TV experiment by diet expert shows process could play a bigger role in weight loss than previously thought

Samantha Cameron seems to be a fan of chewing too, ‘subscribing to Dr Franz Mayr’ clinic’s principles: chew half an avocado for a meal – each bite at least 30 times.

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