Using light as a cure

LEDs (light-emitting diodes) most often are used to apply concentrated doses of light to patients. LEDs are not lasers, so tissue does not get hot, and the treatment is pain-free. "It presents a quantum leap in medicine," according to Harry T. Whelan, MD, who is professore of neurology at the Medical College of Wisconsin and a leading researcher in the field. "It's a change from the standard medical models of drugs and surgery, where you are basically either poisoning or cutting the patient."

Light apparently works at the cellular level, allowing the body to repair itself. Light can be used in many ways depending on its different colors:

Near infrared light - this has the most dramatic potential for revolutionizing medicine; in his Children's ward, Dr. Whelan has eliminated oral sores that are a side effect from chemotherapy and radiation treatments from near infrared

Red light - seems to help wounds heal more quickly, promote collagen formation (which smoothes out wrinkles), and treat severe cases of acne

Blue light - believed to be far more effective at fighting seasonal affective disorder than full spectrum sunlight boxes; has also been studied for insomnia

Ultraviolet light - may be used to keep bacteria and viruses from reproducing; it is being tested in a Manhattan office and retail building; the UV light treats the air being circulated throughout the building as a way to sterilize the environment; it is also being used in water treatment plants in New York City

Courtesy of USA Weekend

Bonnie - I can say already that infrared has helped some of my clients. I have recommended Infrared Saunas treatments to clients who require heavy metal detoxification or have yeast overgrowths. So far, the results have been positive.

I am eagerly anticipating more research on light therapies.