Using scalar energy products can increase your radiation exposure.
Scalar energy products are alternative medicine products. The manufacturers of scalar energy products state that they are made of volcanic materials or other minerals and make claims of a number of health benefits, including improved circulation, improved stamina and improved flexibility. Similar products may also be labelled as quantum energy or quantum science.
What is the hazard?
ARPANSA has confirmed the presence of radioactive materials in scalar energy pendants, in particular the naturally occurring radioisotopes of uranium-238 and thorium-232. While not tested, other scalar energy products, such as pillows or mattresses, may also contain radioactive materials.
The pendants emit alpha, beta and gamma radiation. The alpha particles are mostly absorbed within the pendant and pose no threat to the health of the wearer. The beta particles from pendants worn close to the body will only penetrate a short distance into tissue, and will be mostly absorbed in the skin. The gamma particles emitted will penetrate over a large area of tissue.
ARPANSA has assessed that the whole body radiation dose to an individual wearing one of these pendants is likely to be low. However, wearing pendants continuously can result in an elevated skin dose due to beta radiation, and limiting exposure should be considered.
Internationally, some scalar energy products, particularly mattresses, have been shown to increase exposure greater than the public dose limit.
What should you do?
ARPANSA advises consumers that these items may contain elevated levels of naturally occurring radioactive material that can result in additional radiation exposure that offer no established evidence-based benefits.
Should you wish to test your scalar energy product for the presence of elevated natural radioactivity, ARPANSA offers an ionising radiation meter hire service.
If you still wish to wear or use one these products it is advised to limit your exposure by:
- limiting the time you are in contact with or wear the product
- increasing your distance from the product
- wearing it over clothing, in the case of the pendants.
Consumers who stop wearing the pendants can safely dispose of them in the bin.
For larger products such as pillows or mattresses, please consult your state or territory regulator for advice on the appropriate disposal method.