Written by Dr. Ray Knorr - October 2026
It’s that time of year again! Everybody is coughing, sneezing, and snotting. This might be a good time for you to invest in some red light therapy. Red light therapy has many benefits, including boosting of cellular energy, stimulation of collagen formation (skin health), sleep support, and more. It is also a great way to boost your immune system.
Red Light Therapy supports the immune system in multiple ways:
Activates and modulates the cells of your immune system
Macrophages and neutrophils are immune cells that are responsible for engulfing and destroying pathogens. Red Light Therapy increases their activity and sensitivity.
T-Cells and B-Cells are responsible for tagging pathogens as "enemy" and for making antibodies specific to those pathogens. They also help your immune system remember the pathogens your body has been exposed to, allowing you to mount a quicker defense next time you are exposed. Red Light Therapy enhances the communication between these cells and the rest of your immune system.
Reduces excessive inflammation
Red Light Therapy regulates cytokine production and activity. These molecules are important for signalling the necessity of an immune response and controlling the actual response. Proper cytokine function ensures that there isn't excessive inflammation as a result of the immune response. Inflammation is a big part of why you feel lousy when you are sick.
Supports energy production in the cells
Red Light Therapy increases the energy production of mitochondria (the powerhouses of the cell) by 30% or more. This increase in energy helps the body fight the infection and recover afterwards. It also helps you feel better while you are sick.
Enhances sleep
Sleep makes everything better. It is one of the most important functions in your body. Red Light Therapy increases natural melatonin production. Better sleep, better ability to fight.
Red Light Therapy sessions take about 15 minutes. Typically, you would lie on a table in a private room while a panel is suspended over you that emits a mixture of red and near-infrared light over your body. It's pleasantly warm and quite relaxing. So next time you are feeling run down or have an important event coming up, try some red light therapy.
Looking for additional ways to help support your health this coming winter? Check out our previous blog post How to Stay Well During Winter
