Origins

 

References to the early use of magnetism in the healing arts are found in most civilizations of the world: The earliest record of magnetism is found in a Chinese book entitled “Yellow Emperor’s Book of Internal Medicine” (circa 2000 BC) where it is referred to in conjunction with the practice of acupuncture. 2 Cleopatra is claimed to have worn a lodestone on her forehead to prevent ageing. 2

The famous Persian physician Ali Abbas describes using magnetism to relieve spasms and gout around 1000 AD. 3 Galen, a noted Greek physician, author and educator, referred to magnetism as an excellent purgative. 3

William Gilbert (1544 -1603) was the private physician to Queen Elizabeth I, Galvani, and Mesmer. He made significant scientific discoveries relating to the use of magnetic and electrical energy in medicine.

The Beginning of Modern Research

Dr. Kyoichi Nakagawa is considered the founder of modern magnetic research and the value of magnetism in enhancing health. He published a study in 1956, which claimed that the Earth’s natural magnetic field had declined by at least 50%. He then went on to study the effects of magnetism on health. He coined the term Magnetic Field Deficiency Syndrome; this is where a lack of magnetic field causes aches and pains. During his studies, he noted that his patients received relief for about 3 weeks, but after this time period the beneficial effects of the magnets lessened. What Dr. Nakagawa did not account for was the different effects the positive and negative poles have on the body. This explains why his study participants experienced only temporary relief. 1

The Earth’s Magnetic Field

Over the last 165 years, scientists have measured the Earth’s magnetic field and have recorded a decline of its’ strength. Today the magnetic field of the Earth is measured at 0.5 gauss. It is estimated that the field of the Earth 4,000 years ago was 5.0 gauss. That is a decrease of 90%.

Next: Biomagnetic Theory

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