Cell, Energy and Electricity

Abstract

The human body is a dynamic bioelectric and electromagnetic system, where cells function not only through biochemical processes but also via electrical signaling. In Energy Medicine: The Scientific Basis, James L. Oschman explores the scientific foundations of how biological cells generate, transmit, and utilize energy in the form of electricity and electromagnetic fields. Key concepts include the resting membrane potential of cells, action potentials in neurons, the piezoelectric properties of connective tissue, and the heart’s powerful electromagnetic field. These principles underpin various energy medicine modalities—such as acupuncture, pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) therapy, and biofield healing—demonstrating that therapeutic interventions can influence cellular energy to promote health and recovery. By bridging biophysics and holistic medicine, Oschman’s work validates energy medicine as a legitimate field grounded in measurable physiological phenomena. This synthesis of science and healing offers promising avenues for non-invasive, energy-based therapies in modern healthcare.

Introduction

In Energy Medicine: The Scientific Basis, James L. Oschman explores the profound connections between biological cells, energy, and electricity, revealing how these elements form the foundation of energy medicine. Modern science has uncovered that the human body is not just a biochemical machine but also a dynamic bioelectric and electromagnetic system.

This article delves into the essential principles of cellular energy, the role of electricity in biological processes, and how these concepts support energy-based healing modalities.

The Living Cell: A Miniature Powerhouse

Every cell in the body is a highly organized unit that requires energy to function. The primary energy currency of the cell is adenosine triphosphate (ATP) produced in the mitochondria through processes like cellular respiration and oxidative phosphorylation.

However, Oschman emphasizes that energy in cells is not just chemical—it is also electrical and electromagnetic.

Source:

Cells maintain a voltage gradientacross their membranes (resting membrane potential), typically around -70 millivolts.

Ion channels and pumps (e.g., sodium-potassium pump) regulate electrical activity.

Disruptions in cellular energy production (e.g., mitochondrial dysfunction) can lead to disease.

Bioelectricity: The Body’s Electrical Network

The human body is an electrical network, with cells communicating via electrical and electromagnetic signals.

A. The Nervous System: Electrical Signaling

Neurons transmit signals via action potentials, rapid changes in membrane voltage.

These electrical impulses allow for instant communication across the nervous system.

B. The Role of Connective Tissue (Living Matrix)

Oschman introduces the concept of the ”living matrix”—a continuous network of connective tissues (fascia, extracellular matrix, cytoskeleton) that conducts energy and information.

This matrix acts as a semiconductor, facilitating rapid energy transfer.

Piezoelectricity: Mechanical stress on connective tissues (e.g., during movement or bodywork) generates electrical signals.

C. The Heart’s Electromagnetic Field

The heart produces the strongest electromagnetic field in the body (detectable several feet away).

This field influences physiological and emotional states, supporting the idea of biofield medicine.

Energy Medicine: Harnessing the Body’s Electrical Nature

Energy medicine modalities work by interacting with the body’s bioelectric and electromagnetic fields. Oschman explains how various therapies align with scientific principles:

A. Acupuncture and Bioelectricity

Traditional Chinese Medicine describes Qi (Chi) as vital energy flowing through meridians.

Modern research shows acupuncture points have lower electrical resistance and can influence nerve signaling and tissue repair.

B. Pulsed Electromagnetic Field (PEMF) Therapy

PEMF devices deliver low-frequency electromagnetic waves to stimulate cellular repair.

Used for bone healing, pain relief, and inflammation reduction.

C. Therapeutic Touch and Energy Healing

Practitioners interact with the body’s biofield to promote balance.

Studies suggest that healers emit measurable electromagnetic signals that affect cellular function.

The Future of Energy Medicine

Oschman’s work bridges traditional healing systems and modern biophysics, demonstrating that energy medicine is not mystical but grounded in measurable phenomena.

Conclusion

Energy Medicine: The Scientific Basis provides compelling evidence that electricity and energy are fundamental to life and healing. By understanding the body’s bioelectric nature, we can develop more effective, non-invasive therapies that align with our biological design.

As research progresses, the integration of energy medicine into mainstream healthcare could revolutionize how we approach wellness and disease treatment.

References:

Oschman, J. L. (2000). Energy Medicine: The Scientific Basis. Churchill Livingstone.

Becker, R. O., & Selden, G. (1985). The Body Electric: Electromagnetism and the Foundation of Life. William Morrow.