Negative ions in air increased by Salt Lamps

Air consists of many electrically charged particles - positively, negatively charged or neutral particles. The quality of the air we breathe depends on the kind of electrical charge and concentration of the ions.

Various human activities and electrical appliances produce positive ions which are the reason for the deterioration of our physical and emotional well being; eg discharge of voltage in high-voltage networks, heating and cooling systems, TVs, radios, transmitters, radar systems, computers, exhausts and cigarette fumes.

Scientific tests have revealed for good health, that the ratio of negative to positive ions should be between 1.02 to 0.98 and the air's composition of negative ions should range between 1000-1500/cm3. Measurements have shown that the number of negative ions decreases to 200/cm3 in a closed room containing several people.

In nature Negative Ions are created by means of wind, sunlight, surf, waterfalls and rainstorms. Generally, a negative ion is an electronically charged molecule made up of oxygen. A positive ion in the air is a molecule that has lost its electrons through process of air pollution. In fresh country air we find up to 4,000 negative ions per cubic centimetre - the size of a sugar cube. Near strong surf or close to a waterfall up to 10,000 negative ions can be found, however the number of negative ions in major capital cities at rush hour does not even reach 100.

The impact of negative ions is powerful. Originally, it was found to speed recovery in burn or asthma patients, but was later discovered to affect serotonin levels in the bloodstream, stabilize alpha rhythms and to positively impact our reactions to sensory stimuli. The greater level of alertness can translate into improved learning, improved well being and enhanced human performance on mental tasks.

Ionised air also substantially reduces the number of airborne bacteria indoors. Dr. Albert P. Krueger, a microbiologist and experimental pathologist at the University of California, found that an astonishing small quantity of negative ions could kill bacteria and quickly take them out of the air so they were less likely to infect people.

Even though they are not a "medical device", Salt Crystal Lamps, by emitting negative ions, significantly reduce a myriad of indoor air pollutants. Negative ions have known benefits, and may provide relief from sinus, migraine headaches allergies and hay fever, reduce the severity of asthma attacks, enhance the immune system, increase alertness, increase work productivity and concentration, increase lung capacity and reduce susceptibility to colds and flu.