Some research suggests that warm, humid, summer air contains more negative ions than cool, dry, winter air. Terman adds that windows, construction materials, computers, clothing fabric, air conditioners and heating systems may also affect negative ion availability. For years, claims have been made for negative ion therapy in treating a variety of ailments, including cancer, heart disease, respiratory infections and depression, though research was inconclusive. Terman says that in his study, for which he received a grant from the National Institute of Mental Health, subjects were exposed to higher levels of negative ions than in previous tests. The subjects sat about three feet from the apparatus for 30 minutes every morning for 20 days.
More study is needed to determine just how the negative ions work.
But Terman says that negative ion therapy seems to be as effective as light therapy or antidepressant medications and may be used instead of or in addition to them. Inc. The terms and conditions of the use of this website are set forth in our legal statement . Your use of this site means you agree to the terms of use, whether or not you have read the terms.