The Science Behind the Heat

There is a robust scientific database behind the therapeutic use of heat, especially in the context of sauna use. One of the most cited studies in this space comes from Finnish researchers and was published in JAMA Internal Medicine in 2015. It found that men who used traditional saunas 4–7 times per week had a 66% lower risk of dementia and a 65% lower risk of Alzheimer’s disease compared to those who used saunas once per week.

While much of the robust sauna research comes from Finland—primarily focused on traditional high-heat saunas—there is a growing body of global evidence supporting the unique mechanisms and benefits of FIR. Far infrared (FIR) sauna therapy has garnered significant attention for its potential health benefits, particularly in cardiovascular and metabolic wellness.

Specifically, as for FIR’s impact on inflammation, some smaller-scale clinical studies—primarily from Japan and South Korea, where FIR technology is more integrated into medical devices—have suggested that FIR sauna therapy may reduce systemic inflammation. For example, a 2008 study by Masuda et al., published in Cardiology in the Young, showed reduced oxidative stress and inflammation markers following regular FIR sauna sessions in patients with chronic heart failure. FIR’s unique mechanism—its ability to deeply interact with the body’s water molecules and stimulate vasodilation without excessive external heat—offers a distinct therapeutic profile. Users often experience cardiovascular responses similar to moderate exercise, including increased circulation, reduced arterial stiffness, and improved endothelial function. Some research also suggests potential benefits in lowering blood pressure and improving symptoms of chronic fatigue and fibromyalgia.

In sum, while FIR sauna therapy shows considerable promise—especially in terms of comfort, accessibility, and deep tissue engagement—the field would benefit from more large-scale, randomized controlled trials. It’s fair to say FIR is part of an exciting frontier in passive cardiovascular conditioning and metabolic regulation, but accuracy in how it’s communicated is essential to its credibility and adoption.

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