Are Grounding Sheets Safe? Revealing the Facts You Should Know

Introduction

In recent years, grounding sheets have surged in popularity, with many people swearing by its benefits like better sleep, boosted energy, and overall wellness. Still, one question remains for new user: Are grounding sheets safe for everyone? In this post we’ll explore the facts, address common concerns and explore whether grounding sheets are truly safe for everyone—even pregnant women, children and individuals with medical devices like pacemakers.

Are Grounding Sheets Safe?

Understanding the Basics of Safety

For the vast majority of users, grounding sheets are considered safe when used correctly. Grounding sheets work by forming a direct electrical connection between your body and the Earth’s natural electric charge, enabling the free flow of electrons. People who use grounding sheets frequently report benefits such as reduced inflammation, enhanced energy levels, and improved sleep quality.

Grounding itself is a practice that stretches back to ancient times, when people walked barefoot on the Earth, allowing direct contact with its natural energy. Modern grounding sheets replicate this process indoors, typically via conductive materials like silver woven into the fabric.

At Tenterra, our grounding sheets are crafted from high-quality, conductive materials from silver that allow for a consistent, safe flow of electrons. We take special care to ensure that our products are free from any harmful electrical currents, enabling you to enjoy the benefits of grounding in a comfortable and safe environment.

What About Electrical Shocks or EMFs?

One common concern about grounding sheets is the potential for electrical shocks or exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMFs). However, grounding sheets are designed to channel the Earth’s natural energy and not artificial electrical currents. When installed and used correctly, the risk of electrical shock is minimal. In fact, grounding sheets help reduce exposure to harmful EMFs by channeling them into the Earth (Oschman et al., 2010).

It is crucial to ensure that your grounding sheets are connected through a grounded outlet in a properly maintained electrical system. If you're concerned about thunderstorms or electrical surges, rest assured that grounding sheets remain safe when used in a properly grounded environment. 

What about those with sensitive skin? 

Another concern some users have is the potential for skin irritation. However, at TenTerra, our grounding sheets are made from lyocell, a  material known for its gentle, hypoallergenic qualities that make it suitable even for those with sensitive skin. Lyocell fibers are smooth and breathable, reducing the likelihood of any  irritation.  As always, for those with specific skin sensitivities or concerns, its advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before use to  ensure the best experience.

Are Grounding Sheets Safe for Kids?

When it comes to the safety of grounding sheets for children, the available research suggests that they are generally safe. Grounding sheets function by connecting the body to the Earth's natural energy without involving harmful electrical currents. Several studies have found grounding to have calming effects on stress and sleep, which can be beneficial for children, especially those who struggle with sleep issues or hyperactivity (Chevalier et al., 2012).

However, it is essential to ensure that the grounding sheets are installed properly, particularly for young children, to avoid any potential risks from electrical systems. As with any wellness product, parents should consult a pediatrician before using grounding sheets for children, especially for those with specific health conditions.

Research Support:
A study published in Explore: The Journal of Science and Healing found that grounding helped reduce stress and improve sleep in individuals of all ages (Chevalier et al., 2012). This research suggests that grounding may be safe and beneficial for children, particularly those with sleep difficulties or anxiety.

Can You Use Grounding Sheets with a Pacemaker?

Individuals with pacemakers need to be cautious when using any device that interacts with electrical currents, even as subtle as those used in grounding sheets. Grounding sheets work by connecting the body to the Earth’s natural energy via conductive materials, which can raise concerns about potential interference with medical devices like pacemakers.

Research on grounding for pacemaker users is limited, but the general advice from medical professionals is to err on the side of caution. Pacemakers are sensitive to electromagnetic fields (EMFs), and while grounding sheets do not emit significant EMFs, the risk of interference from household electrical systems may still exist. It is critical for individuals with pacemakers to consult their healthcare provider before using grounding sheets to ensure there are no adverse effects or interactions.

Research Support:
According to a review in the Journal of Environmental and Public Health, grounding reduces exposure to EMFs by channeling them into the Earth (Oschman et al., 2010). However, the same review advises individuals with implanted medical devices to seek medical advice due to potential electrical interference risks.

Are Grounding Sheets Safe? Exploring the Core Safety Aspects

Grounding sheets are generally considered safe when used correctly. They function by creating a low-resistance pathway that connects users to the Earth's energy. This connection stabilizes the body’s natural electrical charge without exposing users to dangerous currents. Studies show that when used properly, grounding sheets pose no significant risks of electrical shock.

One common concern is electromagnetic fields (EMFs). Grounding sheets may help mitigate the impact of ambient EMFs by grounding them into the Earth. Research suggests that grounding helps balance the body’s bioelectrical state, reducing the effects of EMF exposure (Chevalier et al., 2012).

Grounding Sheets and Pregnancy: Are They Safe?

Grounding sheets may offer cardiovascular benefits during pregnancy, especially for those experiencing hypertension. A 30-day study on pregnant women with hypertension found that grounding helped improve blood pressure and circulation without any reported side effects (Adriani & Zubaedah, 2022).

Additional Benefits: Grounding Sheets for Better Sleep, Stress Reduction, and Pain Relief

Grounding’s impact on sleep, stress, and chronic pain is well-supported by research. A study by Chevalier et al. (2010) found that grounding significantly reduces nighttime cortisol levels, promoting better sleep and a calmer mood. Grounding is also believed to alleviate inflammation, making it a useful tool for managing chronic pain (Oschman et al., 2015).

Choosing the Right Grounding Sheet

When selecting a grounding sheet, it’s crucial to prioritize quality materials and safety certifications. Ten Terra grounding sheets, for example, are made from hypoallergenic lyocell and woven with fine silver threads for conductivity. Ensuring that the grounding sheets meet safety standards is essential, especially for sensitive groups like children and pregnant women.

The Science Behind Grounding and Its Safety

Studies by Oschman, Chevalier, and Brown have highlighted grounding’s potential to reduce inflammation, support immune responses, and promote recovery from chronic conditions, all without causing harmful side effects (Oschman et al., 2010). More recent research has confirmed these findings, with grounding mats showing significant reductions in stress-related behaviors in animal models (Johnson et al., 2023).

Conclusion: Are Grounding Sheets Safe and Worth Considering?

In conclusion, grounding sheets are generally safe for most people, including children and pregnant women, when used correctly. Individuals with pacemakers or other implanted medical devices should consult their healthcare provider before use to avoid potential risks. By choosing quality products like Ten Terra grounding sheets and following proper installation guidelines, you can safely enjoy the benefits of grounding.

References:

1. Chevalier, G., Sinatra, S.T., Oschman, J.L., & Delany, R.M. (2013). Earthing (grounding) the human body reduces blood viscosity—a major factor in cardiovascular disease. Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine.

2. Oschman, J.L. (2007). Charge transfer in the living matrix. Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies.

3. Sinatra, D., Oschman, J.L., & Chevalier, G. (2017). Electric nutrition: the surprising health and healing benefits of biological grounding (earthing). Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine.

4. Oschman, J.L., Chevalier, G., & Brown, R. (2015). The effects of grounding (earthing) on inflammation, the immune response, wound healing, and prevention and treatment of chronic inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. Journal of Inflammation Research.

5. Ghaly, M., & Teplitz, D. (2004). The biologic effects of grounding the human body during sleep as measured by cortisol levels and subjective reporting of sleep, pain, and stress. Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine.

6. Jeong, W., Yu, H.J., Ye, M., Hong, Y., Kim, M., Kim, J.Y., & Shim, I. (2023). Grounding mats reduce stress-induced behavioral and neurohormonal changes in rats: A study on anti-stress efficacy. Biomedicines.