Red light for a cold? Yes, it really can help

Red light for colds - does it work?

Winter is drawing to a close. And then this: people are fighting coughs and colds on every corner. Yes, the next wave of colds is here. And it comes as a surprise.

Are you sick too? Then you should definitely read on now. Because, unless you have the flu, there are great home remedies and one or two treatments for your cold that don't involve chemicals. We'll just say: red light can help.

A home remedy that can really work against your cold

Have you ever heard of red light to fight a cold? The use of a red light lamp for coughs and blocked noses was already known in grandma's day. But is it all just humbug?

Let's take a look at how a red light lamp works.

Important: When we talk about a red light lamp in this article, we are NOT referring to the widely used red heat lamp. That is a completely different story. A red light lamp does not heat. It works with infrared light. And with LEDs.

Back to the topic. When switched on, red light lamps emit a certain amount of infrared light. This light is not visible to your eye.

But what is so special about this light?

Depending on the wavelength, the infrared light penetrates the upper layer of the skin. Here it can have a special effect on the mitochondria - the power plants of your cells. And, among other things, ensure better blood circulation. Using a red light lamp can also dilate your blood vessels, reduce inflammation and supply your body with more oxygen. Ideally, all of this leads to a stronger immune system.

Let's be honest: does red light really help with colds?

As mentioned above, red light can have an effect on your mitochondria, improve your blood circulation and strengthen your immune system. But what's really interesting - especially when you have cold symptoms: By increasing blood flow and metabolic activity, pathogens can also be flushed out of your body faster.

However, all these positive effects can only occur if the light has a wavelength between 600 and 1100 nm. In this range, it appears yellow, orange to red.

Wavelengths and light colors - the visible spectrum

How to use red light to treat your cold

Red light can therefore help with colds. And is an exciting home remedy if you want to avoid tablets and the like. However, to ensure that red light can really help with your cold, you should make sure you use it correctly.

Red light for colds: what you need to do

It all depends on the distance. In general, it is recommended that you target the face when you have a cold. The focus should be on the nose and the surrounding area. A distance of around 40 cm from the lamp is ideal. This way, you irradiate your entire head, including your forehead and neck. And isn't it precisely these areas that are particularly troublesome when you have a cold?

It's all a question of timing. The rays of the red light lamp don't have to shine on your face for hours. As a rule, 10 to 20 minutes is completely sufficient. This is what biologist Kathrin Rothfischer recommends in her article on red light for colds.

Our remedy of choice for colds

A red light lamp can be an exciting home remedy to combat colds, coughs and a swollen nose. In general, red light can help to alleviate cold symptoms. However, the effect on the disease has not yet been proven. What has been proven, however, is that Infrared light provides relief for colds colds.

You should never expect miracles from home remedies. But relief. And relief is very welcome when you have an acute cold, isn't it?

The red light lamp can definitely provide relief. The deep effect of the rays can stimulate your blood circulation, boost your immune system and fight viruses and bacteria more effectively. It's definitely worth a try.

FAQ: Red light lamps for colds

How long should I use a red light lamp for a cold?

Basically, as long as the lamp provides relief from your symptoms, it is advisable to use it. However, if your symptoms do not subside - or perhaps even get worse over time - you should urgently consult a doctor.

Can red light also be used to treat colds and runny noses in children?

If your child has a cold, you can also treat it with red light. However, your child should be at least six years old. If in doubt, you should also speak to a doctor before using the red light lamp for colds. They will tell you whether the treatment is suitable. Important: If you are treating your child's cold with red light, please do not leave them unattended.

What is the difference between a red light lamp and a heat lamp?

Red light lamps have been around for several decades. They are widely used. The big difference to LED red light lamp: the heat lamp also emits mid and far infrared wavelengths. These wavelengths are absorbed by the body and generate heat. If you get too close to such a lamp, you risk burning yourself. The LED red light lamp emits little or no heat. However, its light output is comparatively higher. And this can increase the positive effects of a cold.