What's the deal with negative ions?

May 7th, 2007

"Generally speaking, negative ions increase the flow of oxygen to the brain, resulting in higher alertness, decreasing drowsiness, and more mental energy," says Pierce J Howard, Ph.D., director of research at the Center for Applied Cognitive Sciences.

Negative ions are most commonly found near moving water, such as crashing waves, thunderstorms, and waterfalls. The moving water causes the surrounding air to move and that along with sunlight and radiation breaks apart molecules of air. The broken pieces end up with extra electrons making them negative ions. There are other natural negative ion generators too, including our specialty, beeswax candles.

Negative ions can make you feel better, but the effect depends on the person. Approximately 1 in 3 is quite sensitive to their effects while a few people notice very little difference.

Most of our homes and work environments are filled with positive ions created by electrical devices like computer monitors. Attempts to counter act these 'evil ions' has resulted in the production of air filters that are also negative ion generators to fill our air with 'beneficial ions'.

Research is still being done, but the presence of negative ions has been found to relieve depression as much as antidepressants in a study by Columbia University. It is believed that negative ions result in increased serotonin levels that reduce depression and stress.

It would seem that negative ions have great possibility in making our surroundings better for our well being. And if you are not on of the lucky ones affected by negative ions, you can still enjoy the relaxing candle lit atmosphere.

Thanks for reading.

Darian