Science: Frequently Asked Questions

What are air-ions?
Air ions are gas molecules with an electric charge. They are a natural component of clean air. Every living organism on this planet evolved in an ionised atmosphere and they are as essential as oxygen to life. Air, even clean air, which is completely devoid of negative ions cannot support organic life. Ions are Nature's clean air system. They are naturally formed in pairs outdoors: a negative ion and a positive ion. As long as the balance between them is maintained all is well, but in the modern indoor environment - for the first time in our evolutionary history - it rarely is.

What alters the natural ion balance?
Negative ions are increased by sunlight acting on the ionosphere, rain, surf, waterfalls, fountains, domestic power showers and the radiation in underlying bedrock.Positive ions are increased by approaching thunderstorms, dry dust-laden winds, human respiration indoors and radiant electric heating.Both negative and positive ions are reduced by air pollution (smoke, dust, city air, exhaust vapours, industrial pollution), grounding when passing through ducts, filters, chillers or grilles and positive static charges on VDU screens, synthetic fabrics & furnishing.

Why are they important?
Ions affect human metabolism. Also, both negative and positive ions electrostatically strip pollutants from the air. For most people:

• Negative ions lead to improved mental alertness and health
• Positive ions cause headaches, lethargy, tension, irritability and discomfort

Over 50 years of research by hospitals, universities and institutes has demonstrated that enhanced negative ion levels produce a wide range of benefits for most people, with a total absence of adverse side effects. High concentrations of negative ions can have a 'normalising' effect on various neuro-hormones, providing effective relief for a wide range of respiratory and tension conditions.

The effects of negative ion depletion are similar to positive ion excess ... for many it means headaches, lethargy, tension, irritability and a general feeling of stuffiness and discomfort. Extra-sensitive people may suffer asthma attacks, migraine, nausea and depression with consequent effects on their personal health and performance in the workplace.