Can Red Light Therapy Affect Blood Pressure?

ByPavlos Giorkas Posted on Updated on
Can Red Light Therapy Affect Blood Pressure

In this article I am going to explore if Red light therapy can lower or benefit people with high blood pressure in anyway.

Just to give you the TL;DR, there is some evidence to suggest that red light therapy can have a positive effect on blood pressure, but there is not enough research to back it up.

It is proven that red light therapy can help cardiovascular health by increasing energy production and fighting inflammation and that it has many, proven benefits for our health, but there is no direct correlation with red light therapy lowering blood pressure.

Just keep in mind that most of the “positive content” you’ll find online comes from companies that sell red light therapy devices and not from actual research.

Below there’s a summary of various research papers I found online that seem to have a correlation between light therapies and cardiovascular health.

This article is part of our Red Light Therapy article series. If you want to learn more about red light therapy and LED light therapy, you’ll find plenty of resources there.

Red Light Therapy and Blood Pressure

Here’s a quick table with the research found in this article

TitleDescription
Far-Infrared Sauna Therapy Blood Pressure ImpactA University of Missouri study found that far-infrared sauna therapy significantly lowered systolic and diastolic blood pressure, indicating potential cardiovascular benefits, though no significant impact on weight or cholesterol was observed. More research is needed. [1]
LED Light Enhances Hemoglobin’s FunctionRed LED light exposure enhanced hemoglobin’s ability to carry oxygen, as observed in changes to Raman spectra. This may contribute to developing non-drug treatments for high blood pressure. [2]
Bright Light Therapy Affects HypertensionBright light therapy increased systolic blood pressure, especially in hypertensive rats, and altered melatonin levels. The study suggests differential effects on blood pressure and melatonin based on hypertension status in rats. [3]
Photobiomodulation Reduces Heart Procedure DamageRed light therapy, or photobiomodulation, showed promise in reducing heart damage, inflammation, and scarring caused by myocardial ischemia reperfusion injury in animal tests. Further clinical trials are warranted to explore its potential clinical applications. [4]
NIR Light Protects Heart CellsNear Infrared Light (NIR) protected heart cells from oxygen deprivation damage by increasing nitric oxide and boosting mitochondrial metabolism. This suggests a potential therapeutic role for NIR in preserving heart cell integrity. [5]
LLLI Slows Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm GrowthLow-level laser irradiation (LLLI) slowed the growth of abdominal aortic aneurysms in mice, reducing size and improving arterial wall elasticity. The findings propose LLLI as a potential treatment to mitigate the risk of rupture in abdominal aortic aneurysms. [6]
LLLT Stimulates Heart RepairLow-level laser therapy (LLLT) applied to bone marrow stimulated stem cells, which aided in heart repair after a heart attack in mice. LLLT significantly reduced heart damage and increased the number of healing cells, indicating a potential therapeutic approach. [7]
LLLT Enhances Obesity ManagementCombining low-level laser therapy (LLLT) with aerobic and resistance exercises in a clinical trial showed positive effects in reducing cardiometabolic risk factors in obese women. LLLT, in conjunction with exercise, could be a novel strategy for managing obesity-related health risks. [8]

1. Far-Infrared Sauna Therapy Blood Pressure Impact

A study published in the University of Missouri, Kansas City, tested the effects of far-infrared sauna therapy on blood pressure, cholesterol, weight, pain, and heavy metals in the body.

Far-infrared sauna therapy is a type of sauna therapy that uses far-infrared rays to heat the body. Far-infrared rays are a type of electromagnetic radiation that have longer wavelengths than visible light – typically between between 700 and 1200nm³ (nanometers).

The study found that the therapy lowered both systolic and diastolic blood pressure significantly. It also increased pulse rate during each sauna session.

However, it did not show a significant difference in weight or cholesterol levels compared to the control sauna. The results suggest that far-infrared sauna therapy may have potential health benefits, but more research is needed.

2. LED Light Enhances Hemoglobin’s Function

In another study, researchers used red LEDs to shine light on hemoglobin, a protein in our blood. They noticed changes in the hemoglobin’s Raman spectra, which is a way to measure molecular vibrations.

These changes suggested that the light made the hemoglobin better at carrying oxygen. They also found that 30 minutes of light exposure was ideal for this effect. This research could help develop new treatments for high blood pressure that don’t involve drugs.

Now, my take on this is that Hemoglobin’s role is primarily related to oxygen transport in the body and not directly linked to blood pressure.

However, maintaining healthy oxygen levels in the body is important for overall cardiovascular health, which can indirectly impact blood pressure.

3. Bright Light Therapy Affects Hypertension

In another study, researchers used bright light therapy (phototherapy) – which is not the same as red light therapy – on rats to see its effects on blood pressure (BP), heart rate (HR), and melatonin levels.

The therapy increased systolic blood pressure in all rats and diastolic BP in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). However, it didn’t affect the heart rate.

Systolic blood pressure is the highest pressure in the arteries when the heart contracts and pumps blood out. Diastolic blood pressure (BP) is the measurement of the pressure in the arteries when the heart is at rest between beats.

In normal rats, the therapy decreased the daily melatonin levels but didn’t change the night levels. In SHR rats, it significantly decreased the night melatonin levels, making the day and night levels similar.

The therapy had a more pronounced and less favorable effect on rats with high blood pressure.

4. Photobiomodulation Reduces Heart Procedure Damage

A promising study published in the journal Scientific Reports, found that photobiomodulation (red light therapy), can reduce heart damage caused by myocardial ischemia reperfusion injury.

This injury, often a result of heart procedures, can lead to heart cell death and scar tissue, weakening heart function.

The treatment showed positive effects in animal tests, reducing heart damage, inflammation, and scarring, while promoting tissue repair.

Although still in early stages, the evidence supports further clinical trials.

5. NIR Light Protects Heart Cells

Another promising study shows that Near Infrared Light (NIR) can protect heart cells from damage caused by lack of oxygen and its return.

This light increases nitric oxide in heart cells, which helps in protection.

NIR also boosts mitochondrial metabolism, reversing the nitric oxide-induced inhibition of oxygen consumption.

This suggests that NIR protects heart cells in a way that depends on nitric oxide from both nitric oxide synthase and non-nitric oxide synthase sources.

6. LLLI Slows Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Growth

Studies in mice show that low-level laser irradiation (LLLI) can slow down the growth of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA), a dangerous swelling of the main body artery.

Abdominal aortic aneurysm representation. Source: vascularcures.org

The laser treatment reduced the size and improved the elasticity of the artery walls. This suggests that LLLI could be a new way to treat AAA, reducing the risk of rupture. More research is needed to see if this method works in larger animals and humans.

Abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) are a serious medical condition that can have a significant impact on cardiovascular health. The aorta is the main artery that carries blood away from the heart and to the rest of the body, any weakening or bulging of its walls can have a significant impact on blood flow and overall cardiovascular health. [9]

7. LLLT Stimulates Heart Repair

Another study on mice found out that low-level laser therapy (LLLT) applied to bone marrow can stimulate stem cells.

These cells then travel to the heart and help repair damage caused by a heart attack.

The laser treatment significantly reduced the size of the heart damage and increased the number of healing cells in the heart.

This suggests that LLLT could be a new way to treat heart attacks by reducing scarring and promoting healing.

8. LLLT Enhances Obesity Management

In a placebo-controlled clinical trial, researchers found that combining low-level laser therapy (LLLT) with aerobic and resistance exercises helped reduce cardiometabolic risk factors in obese women.

This combination was effective in reducing neck and waist size, body fat percentage, and levels of certain inflammatory markers.

The results suggest that LLLT, when used with exercise, could be a new strategy for managing obesity and related health risks.

Related: 8 Proven Red Light Therapy Benefits For Weight Loss

Questions And Answers

  • Far Infrared Sauna Therapy refers to a type of therapy that involves using a sauna or heat therapy device that emits far infrared radiation. Far infrared radiation is a type of electromagnetic radiation with longer wavelengths than visible light. This therapy is often used for its potential health benefits, such as relaxation, detoxification, and pain relief.
  • Red Light Therapy, on the other hand, is a type of therapy that uses red or near-infrared light to stimulate cellular function in the body. This therapy is also known as photobiomodulation or low-level light therapy. It is believed to work by increasing energy production in cells, promoting healing, reducing inflammation, and improving skin health.
  • While both Far Infrared Sauna Therapy and Red Light Therapy involve the use of light or radiation, they are not the same.
  • The main difference between the two therapies lies in the type of light or radiation used. Far Infrared Sauna Therapy utilizes far infrared radiation, which is a form of heat, while Red Light Therapy uses red or near-infrared light.
  • Far Infrared Sauna Therapy primarily works by heating the body and causing sweating, which can help with detoxification and relaxation. It is often used for overall wellness and relaxation purposes.
  • Red Light Therapy, on the other hand, works at the cellular level by stimulating the mitochondria in cells to produce more energy. This can have various benefits, such as reducing inflammation, promoting wound healing, and improving skin health.
  • While both therapies have potential health benefits, they target different mechanisms in the body and may be used for different purposes. Far Infrared Sauna Therapy is more focused on heat and detoxification, while Red Light Therapy is more focused on cellular function and healing.

Phototherapy and LED light therapy are two different treatments that use light to treat various conditions. Here’s a breakdown of the differences between the two:

  1. Definition: Phototherapy is a treatment that uses specific wavelengths of light to treat medical conditions, such as skin disorders, jaundice in newborns, and certain types of cancer. LED light therapy, on the other hand, is a specific type of phototherapy that uses light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to deliver light energy to the skin.
  2. Light Source: In phototherapy, the light source can vary depending on the specific treatment. It can include fluorescent lamps, halogen lamps, or lasers, depending on the condition being treated. LED light therapy, as the name suggests, uses LEDs as the light source. LEDs are small electronic devices that emit light when an electric current passes through them.
  3. Wavelengths: Phototherapy can utilize a wide range of wavelengths depending on the condition being treated. For example, in the treatment of psoriasis, narrowband UVB light with a wavelength of around 311-313 nanometers is commonly used. LED light therapy, on the other hand, can also use different wavelengths depending on the desired effect. For example, red light with a wavelength of around 630-660 nanometers is often used for skin rejuvenation and collagen production.
  4. Intensity: The intensity of the light used in phototherapy can vary depending on the condition being treated and the specific treatment protocol. For example, in the treatment of neonatal jaundice, the intensity of the light is carefully controlled to ensure the safety of the newborn. LED light therapy also allows for control of the intensity of the light, which can be adjusted based on the desired effect and the individual’s tolerance.
  5. Treatment Applications: Phototherapy has a wide range of applications and can be used to treat various conditions, including skin disorders (such as psoriasis, eczema, and vitiligo), neonatal jaundice, and certain types of cancer (such as cutaneous T-cell lymphoma). LED light therapy is primarily used for skin-related conditions, such as acne, wrinkles, and wound healing. It is also used for pain management and to promote hair growth.

In summary, phototherapy is a broader term that encompasses various treatments that use light, while LED light therapy is a specific type of phototherapy that utilizes LEDs as the light source. The choice between the two depends on the specific condition being treated and the desired therapeutic effect.

The wavelengths used in LED light therapy range from 400nm to 700nm. Here are some of the most common wavelengths used in LED light therapy and their benefits:

  1. Blue light (400nm-470nm): Blue light is used to treat acne and other skin conditions caused by bacteria. It reduces inflammation and kills the bacteria that cause acne.
  2. Red light (620nm-700nm): Red light is used to treat wrinkles, fine lines, and other signs of aging. It stimulates the production of collagen and elastin, which are essential for healthy skin.
  3. Green light (525nm-550nm): Green light is used to treat hyperpigmentation and dark spots. It reduces the production of melanin, which causes dark spots.
  4. Yellow light (580nm-600nm): Yellow light is used to reduce redness and inflammation. It also improves the overall texture and tone of the skin.
  5. Infrared light (700nm-1200nm): Infrared light is used to treat deep wrinkles and other signs of aging. It penetrates deeper into the skin than other wavelengths, stimulating collagen production and improving skin elasticity.

LLLT (Low-Level Laser Therapy)
LLLT, also known as photobiomodulation therapy, uses low-power lasers or light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to stimulate cellular function. This type of therapy is commonly used in dermatology, wound healing, and pain management. LLLT is also used to treat hair loss and improve athletic performance.

RLT (Red Light Therapy)
RLT, also known as photobiostimulation therapy, uses red or near-infrared light to penetrate the skin and stimulate cellular function. RLT is commonly used to reduce inflammation, improve skin quality, and enhance muscle recovery. RLT is also used to treat chronic pain, joint disorders, and depression.

Near Infrared Light Therapy
Near Infrared Light Therapy is a form of light therapy that uses near-infrared wavelengths to penetrate the skin and stimulate cellular function. This type of therapy improves circulation, reduces inflammation, and helps with pain management. Near Infrared Light Therapy is commonly used in the treatment of arthritis, neuropathy, and other conditions that cause chronic pain.

In summary, LLLT, RLT, and Near Infrared Light Therapy are all forms of light therapy that use different wavelengths and techniques to stimulate cellular function

Conclusion

My conclusion is not there isn’t a direct link between Red Light Therapy and Blood Pressure. There are many indirect links of LLLT or RLT to improved cardiovascular health.

If you happen to know any other research worth mentioning, please let me know in the comments below.

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Pavlos Giorkas

Pavlos Giorkas is an experienced author with over 9 years of experience in writing content for various online publications. He loves researching about food, nutrition, alternative health and longevity. He believes that mainstream health is broken and fails to deliver what it promises. Among other things, he likes writing about internet marketing, software reviews, crypto and consumer technology.

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