Research & Studies

About Grounding (Earthing) Research

The idea of humans benefiting from direct connection to the Earth is not new. In fact, for most of human history, people lived in constant contact with the ground — walking barefoot, sleeping on natural surfaces, and working outdoors. However, the concept of grounding or earthing as a deliberate health practice only began to emerge in the late 20th century.

The modern exploration of grounding started in the late 1990s and early 2000s, when Clinton Ober, a retired cable TV executive, first theorized that insulating ourselves from the Earth with modern lifestyles — rubber shoes, synthetic flooring, and elevated living — could have negative consequences for health. He initiated early experiments and, in collaboration with medical researchers like Dr. Stephen Sinatra, began publishing studies showing measurable physiological changes from reconnecting with the Earth.

Since then, growing interest in grounding has led to dozens of scientific studies examining its effects on everything from sleep quality and stress reduction to inflammation, blood flow, and pain relief.

The following collection of studies, reviews, and articles represents the current state of research into grounding and its potential to support better health and wellbeing.

Research and Studies

Grounding the Human Body during Yoga Exercise Reduces Blood Viscosity

A study demonstrating that grounding during yoga exercises leads to a significant reduction in blood viscosity, which may benefit cardiovascular health.

Read the study (Published in Open Journal of Preventive Medicine, 2015)

Grounding the Human Body Improves Facial Blood Flow Regulation

This pilot study found that grounding enhances facial blood flow regulation, suggesting potential benefits for skin health and appearance.

Read the study (Published in Health, 2014) 

Grounding Reduces Blood Viscosity—A Major Factor in Cardiovascular Disease

Research indicating that grounding the human body decreases blood viscosity, thereby potentially reducing the risk of cardiovascular events.

Read the study (Published in The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 2013) 

Grounding the Human Organism Influences Bioelectrical Processes

An article exploring how grounding affects the body’s bioelectrical environment, impacting various physiological processes.

Read the study (Published in The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 2012)

Emotional Stress, Heart Rate Variability, Grounding, and Improved Autonomic Tone

A study showing that grounding can improve heart rate variability and autonomic nervous system balance, contributing to stress reduction.

Read the study (Published in Integrative Medicine: A Clinician’s Journal, 2011)

Grounding the Human Body Influences Physiologic Processes

Research demonstrating that grounding affects various physiological processes, including endocrine and nervous system functions.

Read the study (Published in The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 2011)

Pilot Study on the Effect of Grounding on Delayed-Onset Muscle Soreness

A pilot study suggesting that grounding may reduce muscle soreness and inflammation following intense exercise.

Read the study (Published in The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 2010)

Grounding Effects in Lewis Rats

An experimental study investigating the physiological effects of grounding in animal models, providing insights into its potential benefits.

Read the study (Published in The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 2010)

The Effect of Grounding on Human Physiology, Part 1 & 2

A two-part study examining how grounding influences various aspects of human physiology, including sleep and stress levels.

Read Part 1 | Read Part 2 (Published in The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 2006-2007)

Conductive Patch and Bed Pad Reduce Induced Body Voltage via Earth Ground

A study demonstrating that using conductive materials connected to the earth can significantly reduce the body’s voltage levels.

Read the study (Published in The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 2005)

The Biologic Effects of Grounding the Human Body During Sleep as Measured by Cortisol Levels

Research indicating that grounding during sleep can normalize cortisol levels, suggesting reduced stress and improved sleep quality.

Read the study (Published in The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 2004)

Integrative and Lifestyle Medicine Strategies Should Include Earthing

A comprehensive review highlighting research evidence and clinical observations on grounding, focusing on its potential to reduce inflammation, improve sleep, and relieve stress.

Read the article (Published in Explore, 2020)

Electric Nutrition: The Surprising Health and Healing Benefits of Biological Grounding

An article presenting the concept of “electric nutrition,” suggesting that direct contact with the Earth may act as a natural antioxidant and anti-inflammatory.

Read the article (Published in Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine, 2017)

Prevention and Treatment of Influenza, Influenza-Like Illness, and Common Cold by Herbal, Complementary, and Natural Therapies

A broad review of natural approaches for preventing and treating colds and flu. While not focused directly on grounding, it provides valuable context for natural therapies.

Read the article (Published in Journal of Evidence-Based Complementary & Alternative Medicine, 2017)

Biophysics of Earthing (Grounding) the Human Body

A detailed chapter exploring the biophysical mechanisms of grounding and its potential effects on the body’s electrical environment.

Read the chapter (Published in Bioelectromagnetic and Subtle Energy Medicine, CRC Press, 2015)

Health Implications of Reconnecting the Human Body to the Earth’s Surface Electrons

A review discussing the potential health effects of grounding, including reducing inflammation and improving sleep, while calling for further research.

Read the article (Published in Journal of Environmental and Public Health, 2012)

The Neuromodulative Role of Earthing

A hypothesis suggesting grounding may influence brain and autonomic nervous system activity, promoting relaxation and better physiological balance.

Read the article (Published in Medical Hypotheses, 2011)