For over 2,000 years, magnet therapy in China had occupied a central role in Chinese medicine. It had also been mentioned in the earliest writings in Egypt, India and Greece. How it works For the layman, magnet therapy works on the natural energy of magnetism and its relations to a person s overall health. Reducing stress A magnetic field applied to the head calms and induces a hypnotic sleeping effect on the brain. The key is the stimulation of the hormone melatonin. This had led to the manufacture of magnetic pillows and pads designed for a sound sleep. Enhancing energy Magnet therapy is also known for increasing the well-being of patients by enhancing energy. ) The north-pointing pole has strengthening, stimulating qualities and overall, it gives energy. It can be used to improve weak organs of the body. The south-pointing pole withdraws energy. It can sedate people and make them relax. It is used for pain relief, reduce unwanted growths, soothe inflammations and arrest infections. In the same study, it was found that patients who slept on magnetic mattresses had greater pain relief than those who slept on ordinary mattresses. Diabetic neuropathy At the New York Medical College of Valhalla, magnetic foot pads, more than the nonmagnetic ones, were found effective in relieving numbness and pain associated with this diabetes-related problem. There are also people who testified on the effectiveness of the magnets on reducing the occurrence of headaches, improve sleeping habits and reduce the risks of diabetes, high blood pressure and pneumonia. Bracelets are not only one used in magnet therapy. You could also use necklaces, rings, straps, mattresses or pillows. It is here that the north-negative magnetic field was discovered to possess healing qualities. Some precautions Because the body s own electromagnetic fields are affected by the weakest of magnets, several precautions are given in the use of magnets. For those using pacemakers and other electronic devices, refraining from the use of magnets is the best policy.