Improving Facial Blood Flow with Grounding Sleep: A Pilot Study on Microvascular Function

Abstract

Objective: This pilot study investigates whether grounding the human body during sleep can improve facial blood flow regulation.

Context: Grounding involves contact between the earth's electrons and the human body, which has been shown to reduce inflammation. However, effects on microvascular function have been less studied.

Methods Used

Approach: A randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind trial was conducted with 12 healthy subjects. Subjects were grounded to the earth or sham-grounded with identical appearing systems during sleep for 8 weeks. Facial microvascular functioning was assessed with laser speckle contrast imaging coupled with pilocarpine iontophoresis.

Data Collection: Microvascular reactivity to pilocarpine-induced sweating was compared between grounded and sham-grounded groups before and after the 8 week intervention.

Researchers’ Summary of Findings

Impact on Health: The grounded group showed improved microvascular function compared to the sham group following the 8 week intervention. The difference was statistically significant (p<0.05).

Health Implications: Grounding during sleep may improve blood circulation and vasodilation capacity by reducing inflammation. Larger studies should investigate this further.

DOI: 10.1089/acm.2015.0119