Reviewed by Dr. Scott Maymon, ND, NPH, and Dr. Sarah Stone, ND.

Reading time: four minutes

Far infrared sauna therapy has gained attention for its many health benefits, particularly concerning cardiovascular health. At Pure Body Health, we offer Relax® Far Infrared Saunas that can be used in our clinic or purchased for home use. 

Understanding how infrared heat affects the body can help you appreciate why regular sessions might be a smart addition to your wellness routine.

In this blog, we explain how far infrared saunas improve heart health. We discuss the science behind infrared heat and its effects on the body, as well as the specific benefits for heart health.

The Science Behind Infrared Heat

Far infrared saunas work by emitting infrared light that penetrates the skin, promoting a deeper heat that differs from traditional saunas, which primarily use dry heat. This unique thermal therapy has been shown to influence various bodily functions positively:

  1. Increase in heart rate: Infrared heat can elevate your heart rate, similar to the effects of moderate exercise. This increase in heart rate can lead to improved cardiovascular function over time.
  2. Better blood flow: The heat helps dilate blood vessels, improving blood flow and oxygen delivery to tissues. This is particularly beneficial for individuals managing chronic conditions, as increased circulation can aid healing.
  3. Reduction of oxidative stress: Regular use may reduce oxidative stress, a factor linked to chronic heart failure and other cardiovascular diseases.

Heart Health Benefits

The benefits of regular sessions extend beyond just relaxation. Here are several noteworthy cardiovascular benefits:

  • Improvement in endothelial function: Healthy endothelium plays a critical role in cardiovascular health, and infrared sauna therapy may enhance its function, reducing the risk of heart disease.
  • Lowers blood pressure: Clinical studies suggest that the use of far infrared saunas can lead to a reduction in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure, an essential factor in managing cardiovascular risks.
  • Management of Congestive Heart Failure (CHF): Research indicates that regular sessions can significantly lower the frequency of premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) in patients with CHF. By reducing the number of PVCs and improving overall cardiac function, sauna treatment may provide a complementary approach to managing CHF symptoms and improving the quality of life for affected individuals.
  • Lowers stress: Chronic stress has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease. Regular use of far infrared saunas can aid in reducing stress hormones, promoting relaxation, and improving overall mental health.

Recommendations for Use

To maximize the health benefits, we recommend 3–4 sessions per week. During each session, you may experience:

  1. A gradual increase in heart rate, promoting cardiovascular fitness.
  2. Enhanced relaxation that may contribute to improved quality of life.
  3. The alleviation of chronic pain, which can ultimately support heart health by reducing overall stress levels.

Relax® Far Infrared Saunas

Relax Saunas provide a unique experience compared to traditional saunas, primarily through their method of heat generation. 

While traditional saunas mainly use dry heat to warm the air and indirectly heat the body, far infrared saunas emit infrared light that penetrates the skin directly, leading to a deeper level of warmth. 

This direct absorption allows for effective heating at a lower ambient temperature, making the experience more comfortable for users.

Relax Sauna can be set up in 5 minutes, making it easy to use at home or take with you on the go. Our single person sauna comes with a folding nylon chair, collapsible sauna tent, two far infrared emitting radiators, a timer switch, four support poles and a carrying bag.

Other Uses and Benefits

Far infrared saunas have been shown to offer various health benefits beyond cardiovascular health, including:

  • Detoxification
  • Pain relief
  • Improved skin health
  • Muscle recovery
  • Immune system support
  • Respiratory health
  • Improving mood
  • Increasing energy

Try One Out Today!

At Pure Body Health, we believe in the power of far infrared saunas to improve overall health and wellness. Book your session or purchase a Relax® Far Infrared Sauna for home use today and experience the numerous benefits for yourself!

To book an appointment or to learn more about Relax® Far Infrared Saunas, call (480) 427-0442 or complete the online inquiry form.

FAQs

Are infrared saunas good for your heart?

Yes, infrared saunas have been shown to positively impact cardiovascular health by increasing heart rate, improving blood flow and reducing oxidative stress.

Can sauna unclog arteries?

While there is no definitive evidence that saunas can unclog arteries, the increased heart rate and improved blood flow may aid in cardiovascular health.

Do cardiologists recommend saunas?

Many cardiologists recommend sauna therapy as a complementary approach to improving cardiovascular health and managing chronic conditions such as congestive heart failure. However, it is essential to consult with your doctor before starting any new treatment or routine. 

According to the Lifespan Cardiovascular Institute, saunas are not recommended for individuals with the following cardiac conditions:

unstable angina
recent heart attack (within two weeks)
uncontrolled hypertension
low blood pressure
decompensated heart failure
severe aortic stenosis

Can you use a sauna if you have high blood pressure?

The use of far infrared saunas has been shown to lower blood pressure in some individuals, but it is essential to consult with a doctor before using one if you have high or low blood pressure. It is recommended to monitor your blood pressure during the sauna session and stop if it rises too high.