What in the World are “Grounding Sheets?”
Grounding sheets look like regular fitted bed sheets. However, these bed linens are woven from natural fibers combined with threads of conductive metal like silver thread. The conductive threads come together at the edge of the sheet, and then twist together into a wire that plugs into the grounding terminal of an electrical outlet (or a wire that goes out through a bedroom window to attached to a rod in the earth near a healthy tree or plant.)
The reasoning behind this goes as follows: The grounding cord allows electrons radiating from the Earth to flow into the body. These electrons, in turn, neutralize the positive static charge that builds up in the body and produces inflammation and stress.
This is the same logic behind the practice of grounding yourself by walking barefoot outside (a practice also known as “earthing”), allowing your feet to touch the earth to produce a similar energy exchange. The thought is that reconnecting with the earth’s natural energy flow can help balance our body’s own energy flow.
Do Grounding Sheets Work?
Unfortunately, there is little quality research supporting the health benefits of grounding sheets, and the little there is, is primarily funded by companies producing the sheets.
However, the anecdotal evidence from people who swear by the sheets is strong. Many report a better quality of sleep, lower inflammation, and stress reduction. Without more research, we can’t know if this is a “placebo” effect (produced by expectation and suggestion), or a result of the electrical grounding provided by the sheets.
One study on rats, who arguably would not be influenced by the placebo effect, did show that an earthing mat reduced anxiety and stress behaviors. Another interesting article tracks a skeptic’s experience with grounding sheets, including ways that measured their effect.
If You’d Like to Try Grounding Sheets
There are a few things to know if you want to try grounding sheets for yourself. They are pricier than normal sheets, and experts on the sheets say that quality matters. Look for sheets that are at least eight percent silver thread for adequate conductivity. A tight weave and high thread count also improve conductivity, as well as a smoother, softer texture for comfort.
If you have a skin condition, be mindful of other materials in the sheets. If your skin reacts to silver or other metal jewelry, grounding sheets may not be the best choice for you. An option to reduce the chance of skin irritation is to cover the grounding sheet with a regular fitted bedsheet that you know is comfortable and non-irritating to your skin.
Be aware that over time, due to washing and sweat, the metal threads in grounding sheets can lose their conductivity and start to break down. Follow the manufacturer’s laundering instructions carefully.
There is a small risk of electric shock if your home has old or faulty wiring. Also, do not use the sheets during a thunderstorm, as it could result in electrical shock.
Conclusion
It’s true that both the earth and our bodies have their own electrical energy systems —a fact that traditional Chinese medicine has known for centuries (after all, Chi or Qi is just another word for our body’s energy.)
Whether or not grounding sheets affect the body’s energy system in ways that result in solid health benefits requires more research. Nevertheless, we’re glad that natural treatment and preventive measures that factor in the body’s energy system are gaining more attention.
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About the Author
Olivia Hsu Friedman, LAc, Dipl.OM, DACM, Cert. TCMDerm, is the owner of Amethyst Holistic Skin Solutions and treats Acne, Eczema, Psoriasis, and TSW. Dr. Olivia treats patients via video conferencing using only herbal medicine. Dr. Olivia is the past chair of the board of directors of the American Society of Acupuncturists, serves on the Advisory Board of LearnSkin, and is a faculty member of the Chicago Integrative Eczema Group sponsored by the National Eczema Association.