12/11/2024
Red and infrared light, particularly in the near-infrared spectrum, can influence brain waves by penetrating the skull and stimulating the mitochondria within brain cells, leading to increased ATP production, which in turn can affect neuronal activity and potentially alter the patterns of brain waves, particularly by enhancing the power of alpha and beta rhythms while reducing slower delta and theta waves; this process is often referred to as photobiomodulation therapy.
Key points about how red/infrared light affects brain waves:
Mitochondrial activation:
The primary mechanism involves the absorption of light by cytochrome c oxidase, a protein in the mitochondria, which triggers increased energy production (ATP) within the cell.
Blood flow regulation:
Increased ATP production can also lead to vasodilation, improving blood flow to the brain, which may further influence neuronal activity.
Brainwave modulation:
Studies have shown that exposure to red/near-infrared light can increase the power of higher frequency brainwaves like alpha and beta, associated with alertness and cognitive function, while decreasing slower waves like delta and theta, related to deep sleep.
Depth of pe*******on:
Near-infrared light, compared to red light, can pe*****te deeper into the brain tissue, allowing for more widespread stimulation.