Herbs & Spices Can Help Protect You Against Man-Made EMFs

‍Our exposure to man-made radio frequency electromagnetic fields (EMFs) has increased dramatically in recent decades.  From mobile phones to laptops, Wi-Fi access points, routers, smart meters, antennas on cell tower, Bluetooth devices, and cordless phones, it’s becoming nearly impossible to avoid man-made EMFs. 

While government and industry assure us the near-constant exposure to these sources of radiation is safe, the current established standards of exposure to EMFs are based largely on the thermal effects.  However, the most damaging component is likely non-thermal, direct tissue penetration. 

Alzheimer’s Disease, Breast Cancer, Fertility

The potential long-term health effects of low-dose exposure to EMFs were scarcely investigated prior to the mass introduction of these technologies.  However, recent studies have reported long-term exposure to EMFs to “increase the risk of both Alzheimer’s disease and breast cancer.” 

Specifically, EMFs can penetrate tissues and decrease production of melatonin, which may contribute to the development or progression of Alzheimer’s disease and breast cancer.  

EMFs may also affect fertility in both men and women.  A study published in the Central European Journal of Urology in 2014 tested sperm motility and DNA fragmentation in sperm samples from healthy men following exposure to a cell phone in “talk mode” for five hours.  Compared with the control group, mobile phone radiation exposure decreased sperm motility and increased DNA-fragmentation level. 

In 2017, a prospective cohort study of 913 pregnant women concluded that women who were exposed to higher amounts EMF radiation had 2.72 times the risk of miscarriage compared to women with lower EMF exposure.  The authors concluded, “This study provides fresh evidence, directly from a human population, that MF [magnetic field] non-ionizing radiation could have adverse biological impacts on human health.”

Chronic Disease

EMFs have also been reported to increase production of free radicals and reactive oxygen species leading to increased oxidative stress.   Recent studies have concluded that oxidative stress plays a major role in the etiology of chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular disease, aging, cancer and brain dysfunction.  Consequently, it’s plausible that long-term exposure to EMFs may contribute to the formation of chronic disease. 

For instance, based on the increased risk for brain cancer associated with wireless phone use, the International Agency for Research on Cancer classified radio electromagnetic fields as possibly carcinogenic to humans (Group 2B).  

The European Commission Scientific Committee on Emerging and Newly Identified Health Risks concurred that low frequency EMFs are “possibly carcinogenic” based on evidence of increased incidence of childhood leukemia and Alzheimer’s disease in adults.  

Electromagnetic Hypersensitivity

EMF exposure can also lead to electromagnetic hypersensitivity (EHS), which is a phenomenon characterized by the appearance of symptoms after exposure to EMFs. 

Symptoms range from both acute to chronic inflammatory processes across multiple organ system, but mainly appear in the skin or nervous system.  For instance, fatigue, dizziness, headaches, problems with concentrating or memory, depression, burning sensation of the skin, and sleep disturbances are common symptoms among the EHS population.      

Given the current research, it’s plausible that reducing man-made EMF exposure can improve health and wellness, especially in sensitive populations.  Various strategies for EMF mitigation are available, such as shielding and distancing.  However, one often overlooked strategy involves herbs and spices.

Due to the numerous antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds contained in herbs and spices, they can help the body heal from damage caused by man-made EMF exposure.  By learning how to harness the healing power of herbs, we can become more resilient in the face of the ever-growing EMF exposure.

Here is a list of herbs and spices that have been studied for their potential EMF-protecting ability.   

Always consult your health care provider before consuming herbs or supplements or making any changes to your medications or medical protocols. 

Turmeric:

Turmeric has been used for thousands of years in traditional medicine, especially for treating inflammatory conditions.  Studies have confirmed that turmeric contains anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and immunomodulatory effects and can be used for treating “inflammatory, oxidative, and immune dysregulation disorders.”

Turmeric is also a powerful anti-radiation herb partly due to its ability to reduce inflammation.  Curcumin, a compound found in turmeric, likely plays a primary role in the ability of turmeric to inhibit inflammation and prevent damage triggered from EMF exposure.

EMF exposure can increase the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-6, and interleukin-1β.  Those pro-inflammatory cytokines can contribute to the formation of neurological conditions and diseases.  According to a study published in the Journal of Neuroinflammation, curcumin can inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines following exposure to EMF radiation.     

A study published in the Journal of Chemical Neuroanatomy in 2022 reported that EMFs emitted by mobile phones for one hour per day for 28 days significantly decreased the total number of neurons in the hippocampus of rats compared with the control group.  The neuronal structure was also negatively altered.  However, curcumin provided “significant protection” against EMF mediated damage, according to the authors. 

These studies suggest that consumption of turmeric might reduce the negative impact of man-made EMF radiation on the body. 

Turmeric can be consumed through food - it is often found in Indian dishes such as curry.  Turmeric root can be added to meals, such as salads.  Turmeric powder can be added to smoothies, sauces and sprinkled on top of vegetables. Turmeric supplements are also widely available. 

CAUTION: Turmeric supplements should not be consumed during pregnancy.  Turmeric is a blood thinner and may interfere with blood thinning medications.  Individuals with iron deficiency, diabetes, gallbladder issues, blood clotting issues, or endometriosis should ask their health care practitioner prior to consuming turmeric. 

Ginkgo biloba:

Gingko biloba comes from the ginkgo tree, which is considered to be the oldest living tree species.  Gingko biloba was used in ancient Chinese medicine to help unblock stuck energy in vital organs and to stimulate blood flow throughout the body. 

Today, Ginkgo is used to soothe headaches, assist with breathing issues, fight depression and anxiety, protect against free radicals, assist with diabetes and protect the brain from the aging process due to its rich antioxidant properties. 

Ginkgo may also protect against EMF radiation.  In one study, rats were exposed to EMFs from a mobile phone for one hour each day for seven days.  EMF exposure resulted in oxidative damage to the brains of rats in the control group. 

However, rats given Ginkgo biloba prior to cell phone exposure did not suffer from oxidative stress.  The authors concluded that Gingko biloba “prevented” the brain tissue from being damaged by EMF exposure.

Gingko biloba can be consumed as a tea, tincture, leaf extract, roasted seeds or in tablet form.

Caution: Ginkgo biloba has antiplatelet activity and may potentiate other anticoagulants.  Consult with a health care provider prior to consumption.  Fresh Ginkgo biloba seeds in raw form may be poisonous and can be considered unsafe to eat. Women who are pregnant or nursing should consult with their health care provider before consuming gingko.

Ginseng:

Ginseng is an adaptogen that has been utilized in Chinese medicine for its wide spectrum of medicinal effects, including anti-aging and antimutagenic activities. 

Recently, studies have verified ginseng’s numerous health benefits, including anti-cancer and neuroprotective properties as well as pharmacological abilities in the treatment of diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

Ginseng may also protect against radiation exposure.  A study published in 2014 demonstrated that when rats were exposed to cell phone radiation for four hours per day for twelve days, liver cells were damaged and oxidative injury was observed.  However, liver cells were not damaged in rats that were administered ginseng.   

A study published in BioMed Research International reported a neuroprotective effect of ginseng in the hippocampus of mice following EMF exposure.  After one month of exposure to EMFs, brain damage was observed in the control group with loss of calcium balance in the cells.  However, mice administered ginseng were protected against brain impairment and retained calcium balance in the cells of the hippocampus. 

A review study published in Mutagenesis reported that ginseng also provides protection against gamma radiation-induced DNA damage.  The authors theorized that ginseng’s radioprotective potential may be due to its antioxidative capability to scavenge free radicals as well as its immunomodulating capabilities. 

Ginseng can be consumed as a tea, tincture, extract or in a supplement form often in capsules. 

Caution: Ginseng may interact with certain prescription medications.  Both Asian and American ginseng may interact with blood-thinning medications.  Asian ginseng may also interact with calcium channel blockers and other medications used for high blood pressure as well as statins, antidepressants, and chemotherapy.  Women who are pregnant or nursing should consult with their health care provider before consuming ginseng.

Green tea: 

Green tea has been used for treating numerous ailments in traditional Asian medicine.  It is possibly best known for its abundance of antioxidants.

Studies have confirmed numerous health benefits of green tea including: prevention of cancer and cardiovascular disease as well as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiarthritic, antibacterial and antiviral effects. 

Green tea may protect against EMF exposure as well.

A study reported green tea can protect neurons in the brain against cell phone radiation.  Cell phone exposure for twenty-four hours resulted in neuronal cell death in cultured rat cells.  Green tea, however, prevented cell death. 

The authors concluded, "Our results suggested a neuroprotective effect of green tea polyphenols against the mobile phone irradiation-induced injury on the cultured rat cortical neurons." 

A second study reported a protective effect of green tea on workers exposed to low frequency electromagnetic fields of high-voltage power lines.  Oxidative damage to DNA was measured in workers exposed to the EMFs from high-voltage power lines.  Following twelve months of green tea polyphenol supplementation (GTPS), the oxidative damage was diminished. 

The authors concluded, "We found a negative impact of high-voltage power lines on the health of workers. Long-term GTPS could be an efficient protection against the health issues induced by high-voltage power lines."  

Green tea can be consumed as a tea, extract, or in supplemental form such as capsules.

Caution: Individuals with any of the following conditions should speak with their health care provider before consuming green tea: anemia, anxiety disorder, blood-clotting disorder, heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, glaucoma, irritable bowel syndrome, liver disease or osteoporosis. Women who are pregnant or nursing should consult with their health care provider before consuming green tea.

Polygonum aviculare:

An herb used by traditional healers for treatment of cancer, polygonum aviculare contains phenolics and flavonoids that impart antioxidant and antitumor properties.  Consequently, it is studied for its potential to treat diseases associated with aging.   

Polygonum aviculare may also protect against damage from EMF exposure. 

Exposure to radiofrequency EMFs, such as laptops and cell phones, has reportedly led to reduced sperm motility and development.  A study published in 2011 reported a protective effect of polygonum aviculare following EMF exposure in mice. 

Following two months of EMF exposure, sperm motility was reduced and morphology was impaired.  However, in mice supplemented with the herbal extract, sperm motility and development were preserved. 

The young leaves of Polygonum aviculare can be consumed raw or cooked as well as dried and consumed in tea.  The seeds can also be consumed either whole or dried and ground into a powder to be used in baking.  Supplemental forms, such as capsules, are also available. 

Caution: An individual who is consuming prescription medications or is pregnant or nursing should consult with their health care provider before consuming polygonum aviculare. 

Rosemary:

The use of rosemary dates back to at least 500 B.C.  It was traditionally used for relief from diverse conditions ranging from mental decline to epilepsy, pain and infertility.

Today, rosemary is studied for it’s potential to alleviate inflammatory conditions and neurological deficits.  Rosemary may also protect the body from potential damage caused by EMF exposure.

Exposure to EMFs decreased levels of male hormones in rats, including testosterone, according to a study published in 2020.  However, male hormone levels in rats supplemented with rosemary leaf extract were improved.  In addition, rosemary “inhibited the destructive effect of electromagnetic fields on testicular tissue,” according to the authors. 

In 2021, a study published in the Environmental Science and Pollution Research International concluded that rosemary leaf extract “offered substantial protection” against EMF-induced liver damage in rats.

Rosemary can be consumed in food in either fresh or dried form as well as an extract. 

Caution: Individuals with the following conditions should speak with their health care provider before consuming rosemary: gastroenteritis, endometriosis, constipation, epilepsy, neurodegenerative disease, and insomnia. Women who are pregnant or nursing should consult with their health care provider before consuming rosemary.

Holy Basil:

Not to be confused with sweet basil that is commonly used to make pesto, the medicinal properties of Holy Basil have been known for thousands of years and is considered a scared plant by the Hindus in the Indian subcontinent. 

Holy Basil has been shown scientifically to exhibit anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, antistress, anti-carcinogenic, radioprotective, neuro-protective, cardio-protective, hepatoprotective and immunomodulatory activities. 

Holy Basil is an adaptogen that supports the body’s endogenous antioxidant activity to help combat oxidative stress.  For example, Holy Basil contains numerous phytochemicals such as: rosmarinic acid, eugenol, apigenin, and carnosic acid. 

These compounds reportedly prevent chemical-induced skin, liver, oral and lung cancers by increasing antioxidant activity, altering gene expression including upregulation of apoptosis, and inhibiting metastasis.  They also prevent radiation-induced DNA damage. 

Likewise, Holy Basil contains flavonoids, such as orintin and vicenin, which have reportedly protected mice against gamma radiation-induced sickness and death. 

Due to its ability to boost antioxidant capacity, decrease oxidative stress, and protect against gamma radiation sickness, it’s plausible Holy Basil might help protect the body from radio frequency electromagnetic fields as well. 

Holy Basil leaves can be consumed in foods.  They have a spicy, lemony flavor and are used in foods in Southeast Asia, such as in Thai stir-fried dishes. 

Caution: Holy basil should not be consumed by individuals on blood-thinning medications or who have low blood sugar.  Women who are pregnant or trying to conceive should not consume Holy basil. 

Ashwaghanda:

Possibly the world’s most popular adaptogen, Ashwaghanda has been used since antiquity for reproductive health and is currently used for a variety of ailments from relieving anxiety to increasing longevity. 

Scientific studies confirm Ashwaghanda contains antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immune-modulating, anti-stress, anti-parkinson, anti-alzheimer, anti-diabetic, cardio protective, neurodefensive, and anti-cancer properties. 

For instance, Ashwaghanda inhibited metastasis of breast cancer in rats with minimal adverse effects, according to a study published in the Public Library of Science.  It has also been reported to mitigate undesirable side effects of gamma radiation therapy by protecting the liver from damage and increasing antioxidant capacity in rats.

Ashwaghanda’s powerful protective properties may be due, in part, to its ability to boost antioxidant capacity and combat oxidative stress.  For instance, Ashwaghanda has been used for several thousand years in Ayurveda to treat numerous neurological disorders.  A recent systematic review of the scientific literature concurred that Ashwaghanda protects the brain from oxidative stress. 

Since Ashwaghanda contains powerful antioxidant properties and can protect against oxidative stress caused by physical and chemical stressors, such as radiation, it’s plausible Ashwaghanda may protect against other forms of radiation as well, including radio frequency EMFs. 

Ashwaghanda can be consumed as a tea, tincture, powder or supplement.

Caution: Pregnant women should not consume ashwaghanda.  Ashwaghanda can lower blood pressure and blood sugar and elevate thyroid hormone levels.  Speak with your health care practitioner prior to consumption.

Reishi Mushroom:

While technically a fungus, Reishi mushroom has many health benefits, such as: preventing and reversing cancer, boosting the immune system, and reducing fatigue.

Reishi may also provide protection from EMF radiation.  A study published in 2010 reported that reishi repaired cells that were damaged by gamma radiation.  The authors concluded that use of reishi “is a promising approach for protection from radiation exposure…”    

Reishi extract has also been shown to suppress inflammation, scavenge free radicals and decrease oxidative damage. 

Due to its ability to decrease oxidative stress and repair cells damaged by gamma radiation, it’s plausible reishi might help protect the body from radio frequency electromagnetic fields as well. 

Reishi can be consumed as the whole mushroom as well as in a tea, tincture, or extract.

Caution: Reishi mushrooms can cause dizziness, dry mouth, itching, nausea, stomach upset and rash.  Individuals with bleeding disorders or low blood pressure as well as women who are pregnant or breast-feeding should consult with their health care provider before consuming reishi.  Individuals that will be undergoing surgery should not consume reishi.    

As evidenced above, herbs and spices can help protect us from potential damage caused by exposure to man-made EMFs.  If we can learn to harness their power, herbs and spices can help us become more resilient - even when faced with the growing exposure to radiation.