Chromotherapy : Effects of Colors on Our Body

The Sun is referred to as an emanation of God in the Ancient Scriptures. Decoding and understanding some of the subtle properties of the light spectrum is described therein as a major accomplishment of solar sciences. Chromopathy or chromotherapy has emerged as an application of this knowledge as an alternate system of healing.

In the opinion of Dr. Edgar Meisy, the future medical technology will incorporate advanced uses of the light spectrum, like ultrasonic waves, for comprehensive health care. In chromotherapy, the damaged or diseased organs or tissues are exposed to radiations of selected wavelengths with the help of specifically designed lamps and radio-ionic devices.

Apart from providing substantial natural energy for the vital biochemical processes (for example, in photosynthesis, bio-metabolism, and protein biosynthesis), the Sun's rays offer many other boons to the mind and body systems.

Existence of the spectrum of seven colors (VIBGYOR) in the apparently white light of these rays can be seen in a rainbow, or in an optics laboratory with the help of a prism.

A harmonious absorption of these colors by the body is believed to be necessary for the natural maintenance of vibrant health. This is why sunbath is attributed much importance; beaches of the cold countries are packed with people basking in the sunlight.

For therapeutic applications, the deficiencies or imbalances of specific colors are also complemented by artificial light.

Dr. Alice Hobbard, a distinguished expert in homeopathy, radionics, and color therapy has found that different colors could be used for the noninvasive treatment of a wide range of diseases.

Red has the characteristic effect of stimulating neurons, the adrenal (endocrine) glands, and the sensory nerves; it enhances the circulation and reactivity of blood. This primary color thus induces subtle but intense effects in governing the functions of the brain and the nervous system, and many of the biochemical and physiological processes.

Because of its invigorating effects, mild doses of this color are advised along with appropriate amounts of blue and green colors for therapeutic use in general.

Orange is a combination of red and yellow. Its effects are more durable than those of the red color. Orange offers positive effects like increase in body resistance against infections. It is more prominently used in healing of stiffness and spasm.

It also plays supportive role in augmenting the metabolism rate and strengthening the lungs, spleen, and pancreas. It increases the pulse rate but maintains normal blood pressure. It is also interesting to note that on psychological fronts, this color is found to boost soothing emotions and induce enthusiasm.

Research on chromotherapy in medical laboratories indicates that yellow colored light radiations help the motor mechanisms of the body. This color is also useful in fortifying the body muscles and maintenance of the digestive functions.

However, its prolonged use gives rise to acidity, colitis, or hemorrhoid. Excess absorption of yellow radiations may augment palpitation of the heart and diseases like delirium. Use of this color shows a general increase in intelligence and alacrity.

An expansion of the arteries is recorded when green colored light rays penetrate the body. But excessive absorption of this color has harmful effects on muscular tissues, and also on the pituitary gland. From a psychosomatic point of view, green has a favorable impact in inducing positive thinking. It is therefore prescribed in stress management by chromotherapists.

Blue increases metabolic reaction rates, and is often used in wound healing. This color offers soothing effects on the mind, and supports awakening of the subtle intellect when used during meditation practices.

Indigo is advised for chromatographic purification of the RBCs (Red Blood Corpuscles) . This color relaxes and slows down the neuromuscular, cardiovascular, and lymphatic systems.

Violet can be used in maintaining potassium concentration gradients in the body. Specific high frequency radiations of this color inhibit tumor group. Uncontrolled appetite is controlled by this color.

Some combinations of colors are also very useful in this field. For example, Lemon (a blend of yellow and green) has laxative properties. More importantly, this color is found to activate energy supply to the cerebrum. Due to its yellow factor, this color has antacid properties.

Dark violet is a mixture of red and blue, and has analgesic properties. It is said that it also helps in curing malaria. A combination of a larger proportion of red and smaller one of blue results in formation of scarlet. This color stimulates the kidneys and the sex organs.

Magenta is a combination of red and violet, and is useful in activating the heart and some endocrine glands. Purple color- a particular mix of blue and green helps in preventing skin diseases. It is also used in the treatment of sinusitis. As it is commonly experienced, pink color has a pleasurable and soothing impact on emotions.

Optimal distribution and maintenance of various colors around the body is important for its normal functioning.

Multidisciplinary research in chromotherapy along with biophysics, medicine, psychology, and astronomy would widen the scope of this important branch of alternate and complementary therapy, and provide a noninvasive and cost-effective mode of psychosomatic health care.