Negative Ions vs Positive Ions
Both positive and negative ions occur naturally in the air and are also present in the human body. These ions can enter the body through breathing and through the skin, and they travel through the blood and lymphatic system to cells throughout the body.
Some positive ions are associated with so-called “free radicals.” Free radicals can take electrons from healthy cells in order to stabilize their own positive charge, which may contribute to cellular stress.
Modern environments often contain increased levels of positive ions. These can be produced by air pollution and by electromagnetic fields generated by electronic devices such as phones, computers, wireless equipment, kitchen appliances, and other electrical systems.
Negative ions, also known as anions (atoms with an extra electron and a negative charge), are commonly found in natural environments such as forests, mountains, ocean shores, rivers, springs, and waterfalls.
In many wellness traditions, negative ions are associated with fresh natural environments. Some people report feeling more refreshed or energized in areas with higher concentrations of negative ions.
Within the human body, cellular activity is influenced by electrical balance across cell membranes. This electrical difference is known as the cell resting potential and is determined by the concentration of ions on each side of the cell membrane.
Ereada® mats include special ion-generating components such as ionized fabric layers, natural gemstones, and tourmaline ceramic materials. These layers may release negative ions when heated by the mat or when warmed by body heat even if the mat is not powered.
In Ereada® amethyst mats, the ions pass through a thick layer of natural amethyst crystals.
The mats are designed to produce negative ion levels typically ranging from about 500 to 2000 ions per cubic centimeter.
Three technologies are used in Ereada® FIR mats to support negative ion generation:
- Anion-generating fabric layers (present in all mats)
- Negative Potential silver fiber system (available in N.P. mats)
- Natural thunder-type air ionization system (available in Air Ion mats)