Frequencies and their effects: A scientific overview

Frequencies and their effects: A scientific overview

Summary
Pulsed light therapy, also known as photobiomodulation (PBM), is a non-invasive technology in which light with specific frequencies, measured in hertz (Hz), is used to influence the body's biological processes. The frequency indicates how many times the light flashes per second, and these pulses can interact with the brain's natural waves and cellular functions. This article provides a thorough and comprehensive review of how different frequencies in pulsating light can support general health and well-being, without making any medical claims to treat or cure disease. We explore frequency ranges from the lowest delta waves (1–4 Hz) to higher gamma waves (30–100 Hz) and on to frequencies up to 11.78 MHz, which are used in related modalities such as pulsed electromagnetic fields (PEMF) and microcurrent. Through a detailed analysis of scientific literature, including studies from PubMed, Google Scholar and other reputable sources, we present the effects, technical aspects and potential benefits of this technology. The article includes a table of all known frequencies, their areas of use and level of evidence, and concludes with a discussion of research gaps and future perspectives.

Benefits and effects
Pulsed light therapy offers a number of potential benefits for overall health and well-being, depending on the frequency used. Here is an overview of the most important effects:

• Low frequencies (1–10 Hz):

  • Promotes relaxation and calm by synchronizing with the brain's delta and theta waves, which are active during sleep and meditative states.

  • Can support a healthy sleep rhythm and reduce the feeling of stress in everyday life.

• Intermediate frequency pulses (10–30 Hz):

  • Supports mental clarity, focus and alertness, which can be useful in situations where increased attention is desirable, such as during work or studies.

• Higher frequencies (30–100 Hz):

  • May stimulate cognitive functions such as memory and learning, based on preclinical studies (eg 40 Hz in Alzheimer research on mice).

  • Human results are still under investigation, but the potential is promising.

Technically
Pulsed light therapy is based on the use of light that flashes at specific frequencies, and its effectiveness depends on several technical parameters. Here is a detailed description:

Frequencies are divided into categories based on their association with the brain's natural waves and observed effects:

• Delta (1–4 Hz): Associated with deep sleep and recovery.

• Theta (5–8 Hz): Associated with light sleep, meditation and creativity.

• Alpha (8–12 Hz): Related to relaxed alertness and mild focus (eg 10 Hz).

• Beta (13–30 Hz): Associated with active thinking and alertness.

• Gamma (30–100 Hz): Associated with higher cognitive functions (eg 40 Hz).

• Above 60 Hz: Minimal rhythmic effect on the brain, similar to constant light, often used in cellular stimulation.

Wavelengths

• Red light (600–700 nm): Penetrates deep into tissues, directly affects mitochondria and cell metabolism.

• Near-infrared light (700–1000 nm): Supports tissue repair and circulation, often used in PBM for physiological effects.

• Visible light (400–600 nm): Affects the brain via the eyes, modulating neurological responses such as sleepiness or alertness.

Intensity

• Low intensity (<10 mW/cm²): Provides subtle effects, suitable for prolonged use without discomfort.

• High intensity (>50 mW/cm²): Can enhance effects, but increases the risk of side effects such as headaches or eye irritation in sensitive people.

Exposure time

• Short sessions (10-20 minutes): Stimulating, suitable for promoting alertness or gentle relaxation.

• Long sessions (30-60 minutes): Can provide deeper therapeutic results, such as supporting regeneration or stress reduction.

Table of technical parameters

Parameter	Range	Effect
Frequency	0.1 Hz–11.78 MHz	Synchronizes with biological rhythms
Wavelength	400–1000 nm	Determines penetration depth
Intensity	1–100 mW/cm²	Affects the strength of stimulation
Exposure time	10-60 minutes	Varies from light to deep effect

Detailed description
Pulsating light therapy utilizes light's ability to stimulate biological responses at both a neurological and cellular level. This section provides an in-depth analysis of all frequency ranges and specific frequencies, their effects, potential applications and perception, based on scientific research and empirical data from sources such as CAFL, Nogier and Solfeggio. We draw on a wide range of literature, including PubMed, Google Scholar and Europe PMC, to ensure a comprehensive overview.

Delta range (1–4 hz)

• Neurological effect: Dominates during deep, dreamless sleep and is essential for restitution, hormonal regulation and tissue repair. Pulsating light in this area can help synchronize the brain's activity with these rhythms.

• Therapeutic use: Can support a healthy sleep rhythm and reduce stress. Little specific research on light flicker in this area, but brain wave synchronization supports its potential.

• Perception: The flickering is very noticeable and is experienced as pulsating or undulating, which may be pleasant for some, but disturbing with long-term use.

• Example: 2 Hz can induce deep relaxation, reported empirically in relaxation protocols.

Theta range (5–8 hz)

• Neurological effect: Associated with light sleep, dream states and meditative processes, often associated with creativity and intuition. Pulses can promote a state of deep calm.

• Therapeutic use: Used in relaxation therapy and to enhance focus during meditation. The effect is less documented than in higher frequencies, but photic stimulation supports theta activity (Fisher et al., 2018).

• Perception: The flickering is clear and rhythmic, often soothing, but can be irritating for photosensitive people.

• Example: 7 Hz is reported to create a dream-like state.

Alpha range (8–12 hz)

• Neurological effect: Occurs in relaxed wakefulness, such as during light meditation or just before sleep. Light at 10 Hz can synchronize alpha waves, reduce stress and promote mental clarity.

• Therapeutic use: Used in light therapy for well-being and stress reduction. Research on photic stimulation confirms the effect (Fisher et al., 2018).

• Perception: The flicker is noticeable, but often pleasant and unobtrusive.

• Example: 10 Hz is popular for mental balance.

Beta range (13–30 hz)

• Neurological effect: Associated with active thinking, problem solving and alertness. Pulses can support mental sharpness and counteract fatigue.

• Therapeutic use: Less explored in light therapy, but has potential to improve concentration. Risk of seizures in 15–30 Hz in photosensitive people limits its use.

• Perception: The flicker decreases at higher frequencies, but can be intense or disturbing.

• Example: 20 Hz can be used for short-term stimulation.

Gamma range (30–100 hz)

• Neurological effect: Linked to higher cognitive functions such as memory and learning. 40 Hz has been shown to stimulate microglia and reduce amyloid plaques in mice (Iaccarino et al., 2016).

• Therapeutic use: Promising for cognitive enhancement and neural repair. Tested for depression and brain stimulation in preclinical studies.

• Perception: At 40 Hz the flicker is weak, above 60 Hz the light is perceived as stable (flicker fusion threshold).

• Example: 40 Hz is a focus area in neurological research.

Above 60 hz

• Neurological effect: Minimal rhythmic effect on the brain, similar to constant light.

• Therapeutic use: Used in PBM with red/near-infrared light for wound healing and tissue repair. The pulsation is less important than the wavelength.

• Perception: No noticeable flickering, perceived as steady light.

• Example: 100 Hz supports cellular stimulation.

Specific frequencies and their effects
Pulsed light therapy and related technologies such as PEMF and microcurrent have identified many specific frequencies with documented or empirical effects. Here is a complete overview based on research and databases such as CAFL, Nogier and Solfeggio:

• 0.1 Hz: Increases viability in cartilage cells (Sun et al., 2009).

• 0.5 Hz: Deep regeneration (Cheng et al., 1982).

• 1 Hz: Cell metabolism and sleep induction (empirical).

• 2 Hz: Mitochondrial activity at 660 nm (Karu, 2007).

• 5 Hz: Relaxation, theta waves (brain wave studies).

• 7.83 Hz: Earth connection (Schumann resonance).

• 10 Hz: Alpha stimulation, pain relief (Cheng et al., 1982).

• 14.3 Hz: Focus (Schumann harmonic).

• 15 Hz: Bone growth (Kaivosoja et al., 2015).

• 20 Hz: Cancer cell death, stimulation (Crocetti et al., 2013).

• 27.3 Hz: Schumann harmonic, rarely used.

• 40 Hz: Gamma stimulation, amyloid reduction (Iaccarino et al., 2016).

• 50 Hz: Wound healing (Saino et al., 2011).

• 72 Hz: Anti-inflammatory (CAFL).

• 73 Hz: Cellular stimulation (Nogier).

• 75 Hz: Bone-ECM production (Fassina et al., 2006).

• 95 Hz: Muscle pain (CAFL).

• 100 Hz: Circulation (Karu, 2007).

• 120 Hz: Nerve regeneration (CAFL).

• 146 Hz: Anti-inflammatory, connective tissue (Nogier).

• 174 Hz: Pain relief (Solfeggio).

• 285 Hz: Tissue regeneration (Solfeggio).

• 292 Hz: Skin regeneration (Nogier).

• 304 Hz: Liver stimulation (CAFL).

• 396 Hz: Emotional release (Solfeggio).

• 417 Hz: Change, purification (Solfeggio).

• 432 Hz: Harmony (alternative medicine).

• 465 Hz: Fungal infections (CAFL).

• 528 Hz: DNA repair (Solfeggio).

• 584 Hz: Immune support (Nogier).

• 639 Hz: Harmony (Solfeggio).

• 727 Hz: Bacteria, wound healing (CAFL).

• 741 Hz: Problem Solving (Solfeggio).

• 784 Hz: Bacteria (CAFL).

• 787 Hz: Infections (CAFL).

• 852 Hz: Intuition (Solfeggio).

• 880 Hz: Viruses, immune support (CAFL).

• 904 Hz: Pain relief (Bjordal et al., 2008).

• 963 Hz: Higher Consciousness (Solfeggio).

• 1000 Hz: ATP production (Cheng et al., 1982).

• 1168 Hz: Muscle spasms (Nogier).

• 1550 Hz: Immune system (CAFL).

• 2000 Hz: Tissue repair (CAFL).

• 2127 Hz: General Cancer (CAFL, Speculative).

• 2336 Hz: Neurological balance (Nogier).

• 3176 Hz: Lung function (CAFL).

• 4672 Hz: Nerve stimulation (Nogier).

• 5000 Hz: General stimulation (CAFL).

• 10,000 Hz: Inflammation reduction (HI-PEMF).

• 50,000 Hz: Nerve regeneration (Mert et al., 2014).

• 200,000 Hz: Tumor treatment (Kirson et al., 2007).

• 11.78 MHz: Cancer (Rife, untested).

Table of all frequencies and their areas of use

Frequency	Area of use	Modality	Source	Level of evidence
0,1	Cartilage regeneration	PEMF, PBM	Sun et al., 2009	Scientifically
0,5	Deep regeneration	Microcurrent	Cheng et al., 1982	Scientific (limited)
1	Cell metabolism, sleep	PEMF, PBM	Empirical	Scientific/anecdotal
2	Mitochondrial activity	PBM	Karu, 2007	Scientifically
5	Relaxation, theta waves	PEMF, PBM	Brain wave studies	Scientific/anecdotal
7,83	Earth connection (Schumann)	PEMF	Schumann, 1952	Scientifically
10	Alpha stimulation, pain relief	PBM, Microcurrent	Cheng et al., 1982	Scientifically
14,3	Focus (Schumann Harmonic)	PEMF	Biophysical research	Scientifically
15	Bone growth	PEMF	Kaivosoja et al., 2015	Scientifically
20	Cancer cell death, stimulation	PEMF, CAFL	Crocetti et al., 2013	Scientific/anecdotal
27,3	Schumann harmonic	PEMF	Biophysical research	Scientific (limited)
40	Gamma stimulation, amyloid reduction	PBM, PEMF	Iaccarino et al., 2016	Scientifically
50	Wound healing	PEMF	Saino et al., 2011	Scientifically
72	Anti-inflammatory	CAFL	CAFL	Anecdotally
73	Cellular stimulation	PBM, Nogier	Nogies	Scientific/anecdotal
75	Bone ECM production	PEMF	Fassina et al., 2006	Scientifically
95	Muscle pain	CAFL	CAFL	Anecdotally
100	Circulation	PBM, PEMF	Karu, 2007	Scientifically
120	Nerve regeneration	CAFL	CAFL	Anecdotally
146	Anti-inflammatory, connective tissue	PBM, Nogier	Nogies	Scientific/anecdotal
174	Pain relief	Solfeggio	Solfeggio	Anecdotally
285	Tissue regeneration	Solfeggio	Solfeggio	Anecdotally
292	Skin regeneration	PBM, Nogier	Nogies	Scientific/anecdotal
304	Liver stimulation	CAFL	CAFL	Anecdotally
396	Emotional release	Solfeggio	Solfeggio	Anecdotally
417	Change, purification	Solfeggio	Solfeggio	Anecdotally
432	Harmony	CAFL, Alternative	Alternative medicine	Anecdotally
465	Fungal infections	CAFL	CAFL	Anecdotally
528	DNA repair	Solfeggio	Solfeggio	Anecdotal/limited
584	Immune support	PBM, Nogier	Nogies	Scientific/anecdotal
639	Harmony	Solfeggio	Solfeggio	Anecdotally
727	Bacteria, wound healing	CAFL	CAFL	Anecdotally
741	Problem solving	Solfeggio	Solfeggio	Anecdotally
784	Bacteria	CAFL	CAFL	Anecdotally
787	Infections	CAFL	CAFL	Anecdotally
852	Intuition	Solfeggio	Solfeggio	Anecdotally
880	Viruses, immune support	CAFL	CAFL	Anecdotally
904	Pain relief	PBM	Bjordal et al., 2008	Scientifically
963	Higher consciousness	Solfeggio	Solfeggio	Anecdotally
1000	ATP production	Microcurrent	Cheng et al., 1982	Scientifically
1168	Muscle spasms	PBM, Nogier	Nogies	Scientific/anecdotal
1550	Immune system	CAFL	CAFL	Anecdotally
2000	Tissue repair	CAFL	CAFL	Anecdotally
2127	General cancer (speculative)	CAFL	CAFL	Anecdotally
2336	Neurological balance	PBM, Nogier	Nogies	Scientific/anecdotal
3176	Lung function	CAFL	CAFL	Anecdotally
4672	Nerve stimulation	PBM, Nogier	Nogies	Scientific/anecdotal
5000	General stimulation	CAFL	CAFL	Anecdotally
10 000	Inflammation reduction	HI-PEMF	Clinical use	Anecdotal/scientific
50 000	Nerve regeneration	HI-PEMF	Mert et al., 2014	Scientific (limited)
200 000	Tumor treatment	RF/PEMF	Kirson et al., 2007	Scientifically
11.78 MHz	Cancer (Rife, untested)	Rife	Rife-historical	Speculative

Research on electromagnetic frequencies

• Extremely low frequencies (ELF, 0.1–300 Hz):

  • Applications: PEMF, microcurrent, PBM.

  • Examples: 0.1 Hz (cartilage regeneration), 15 Hz (bone growth), 40 Hz (cognitive stimulation).

  • Effects: Regeneration, pain relief, cognitive support.

• Low frequency ranges (300 Hz–100 kHz):

  • Applications: PBM, microcurrent.

  • Examples: 100 Hz (circulation), 904 Hz (pain relief), 10 kHz (inflammation reduction).

  • Effects: Cell activation, tissue repair.

• Radio frequencies (100 kHz–300 GHz):

  • Applications: RF ablation, therapeutic heating.

  • Examples: 200 kHz (tumor treatment), 13.56 MHz (cell stimulation).

  • Effects: Thermal effects dominate, non-thermal effects are debated.

• Optical frequencies:

  • Applications: PBM with red/near-infrared light.

  • Examples: 1–10,000 Hz (mitochondrial activity), 40 Hz (gamma waves).

  • Effects: Cell metabolism, neuroprotection.

Disclaimer and reservations
The use of pulsed light therapy and related devices should be done in consultation with qualified healthcare personnel to ensure safe and appropriate use. Appliances must be kept out of the reach of children to avoid accidental use. Uno Vita AS does not claim that this technology can cure or treat diseases, and the effect of frequency-based therapy can vary from person to person. Users are encouraged to follow the manufacturer's instructions and be aware of individual reactions, such as light sensitivity or discomfort, and adjust use accordingly.

Freedom of expression and right to information
Uno Vita AS reserves the right to share publicly available research and information on health and wellness technologies, including pulsed light therapy, in accordance with basic principles of freedom of expression and the right to information. This is rooted in:

• UN Human Rights (1948), Article 19: The right to freedom of opinion and expression.

• International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (1966), Article 19: Freedom to seek, receive and impart information.

• Norwegian Constitution § 100: Protection of freedom of expression.

• The United States' First Amendment: Protection of freedom of speech against government interference.

  By presenting scientifically based knowledge, Uno Vita AS wants to contribute to an informed dialogue about innovative technologies for general health and well-being.

References

• Sun et al. (2009). Effects of extremely low-frequency electromagnetic fields on chondrocytes. PubMed.

• Kaivosoja et al. (2015). The effect of pulsed electromagnetic fields on osteoblast differentiation. PubMed.

• Crocetti et al. (2013). Low-frequency electromagnetic fields induce apoptosis in cancer cells. PubMed.

• Iaccarino et al. (2016). Gamma frequency entrainment attenuates amyloid load. PubMed.

• Saino et al. (2011). Pulsed electromagnetic fields enhance proliferation. PubMed.

• Barren (2007). Photobiology of low-power laser effects. PubMed.

• Bjordal et al. (2008). Low-level laser therapy in acute pain. PubMed.

• Cheng et al. (1982). Effects of electric currents on ATP generation. PubMed.

• Fisher et al. (2018). Effects of photic stimulation on brain wave activity. PubMed.

• Fassina et al. (2006). Effects of PEMF on bone extracellular matrix. PubMed.

• Mert et al. (2014). High-frequency PEMF for nerve regeneration. PubMed.

• Pasi et al. (2016). Biological effects of radiofrequency fields. PubMed.