Biohacks Review: Biocharger, HBOT, Hydrogen Therapy, and More

This article explores various biohacks and interventions that individuals use and believe in, even without extensive scientific data to support their efficacy. It delves into personal experiences and anecdotal evidence for several devices and therapies.

Biocharger

The Biocharger is a device that utilizes radio frequencies, based on a Tesla coil, surrounded by 12 noble gases in tubes. While there is no clinical data to support its claims, some users report positive experiences. One user mentioned that their husband feels a difference after using it, and another shared a peculiar "raisin bran recipe" for constipation relief, claiming it works within 12 minutes.

Tony Robbins reportedly has a Biocharger in every room of his house. However, one individual who borrowed the device for a month noticed no difference despite consistent use. The device is also noted for causing phones to glitch when placed near it.

Winback Machine (Tecar Therapy)

The Winback machine, which employs tecar therapy, is described as having high radio frequency, distinct from traditional EMS (Electrical Muscle Stimulation). While its exact mechanism is not fully understood by the users, it is believed to aid in tissue healing. One user has been using it for a hamstring injury and feels it is effective. The device localizes to the area of pain, which is considered unusual.

Roxiva (Light Sound Entrainment)

The Roxiva is a sound lounge that combines vibroacoustic therapy with light and sound entrainment. It features a vibroacoustic bed, a lamp with headphones, and offers over 100 different sessions ranging from 5 to 60 minutes. These sessions are designed to induce psychedelic-like experiences without the need for substances, aiming to shift brainwaves through light and sound.

One session, called "Rebirth," is particularly highlighted. It incorporates sounds recorded from a mother's womb, including fetal heartbeats, to create a primal experience. Users lie down, wear headphones, and close their eyes, entering a state of altered consciousness. The session culminates in a crescendo of music and light, simulating birth, leading to a surge of adrenaline and a feeling of rejuvenation.

Shiftwave

The Shiftwave is a vibroacoustic chair that guides users through breathwork sessions. It vibrates intensely, helping users extend their breath holds by about 25% due to distraction. It also monitors heart rate variability (HRV), which reportedly climbs significantly during use. The Roxiva is described as a more comprehensive version of the Shiftwave, incorporating flickering lights to enhance the experience.

Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP)

The Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP), developed by Steven Porges, is a nervous system re-entrainment method. It combines meditation with a facilitator, psychotherapy, sound wave work, and breathwork. A fascinating aspect of SSP is its use of sound frequencies similar to the soft, gentle, reassuring sounds mothers make to their children. This frequency band is also observed in the communication between humans and dogs, and humans and horses, explaining the strong connection in equine therapy.

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT)

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy, while not experimental, is highly praised for its benefits. Sessions typically involve 90 minutes at 2.2 ATA (atmospheres absolute) with 100% oxygen delivered via a mask for 20 minutes on, 5 minutes off. Users report feeling significantly better and more energized after sessions, comparing it favorably to coffee or cold plunges. The sensory depth of the experience is also noted to activate the parasympathetic nervous system.

Hydrogen Bath

Hydrogen baths involve sitting in a hot tub infused with hydrogen. While there isn't extensive research on transdermal absorption of hydrogen, users report feeling relaxed and good afterward. The theory is that hydrogen, as a selective antioxidant, can help with inflammation and soreness. One user spends about 40 minutes in a hydrogen bath almost daily.

Hydrogen Inhalation Machine

A specific hydrogen inhalation machine, developed by Alex Tanavas, is highlighted for its high concentration of hydrogen delivery without the need for a nasal cannula, and without the risk of explosion. This machine is endorsed by Tyler LeBaron of the Hydrogen Research Foundation, who considers it superior to other machines on the market, many of which come from Asia and offer lower concentrations or less adjustable percentages.

Hydrogen Research and Delivery Methods

The discussion also touched upon various forms of hydrogen delivery:

• Hydrogen tablets: These are pills that release hydrogen when dropped in water.
• Hydrogen flasks/water infusion flasks: These bottles produce a higher concentration of hydrogen (8-10 ppm) than pills but have a limited lifespan (around 300 uses).
• Transdermal absorption (baths): While relaxing, there's less research on the efficacy of hydrogen absorption through the skin.
• Inhalation: This method offers the highest concentration of hydrogen infusion into the body.

Hydrogen is considered a selective antioxidant, meaning it can accept or donate electrons, which helps quell inflammation without blunting the hormetic response to exercise. Unlike high-dose synthetic antioxidants (like vitamin C or E) or NSAIDs, selective antioxidants like hydrogen and methylene blue are suitable for post-exercise inflammation without hindering anabolic responses.

Cold Plunge and Antioxidants

The conversation briefly touched on cold plunges and their interaction with antioxidants. To significantly impact muscle temperature, a cold plunge needs to be at least 10 minutes at a very cold temperature. Shorter cold plunges or cold showers after a workout are less problematic. However, prolonged cold plunges (10-20 minutes) immediately after a workout can blunt the anabolic response. It is recommended to wait a few hours after a workout before engaging in a long cold plunge.