Many people do not realize that they snore during their sleep unless the person who sleeps next or their partners make them aware. Snoring makes it difficult for you to stay asleep, and you end up feeling tired all the time.
According to a report, less than half (45%) of the Australian population is satisfied with their sleep. Another study concluded that snoring is very common in middle-aged men of 40 to 65 years in Australia.
What This Article Is All About?
If you feel fatigued even after 8 hours of sleep just because of snoring, or if you wake up with a dry mouth, then then we might just have the solution for you!
In this article, you’ll get to learn about anti-snoring rings that use acupressure to stop snoring and improve sleep quality. Read on to find more about anti-snoring rings.
What Is Acupressure?
Acupressure is a non-invasive massage technique that works by applying pressure to discrete points on the body with fingertips. Acupressure is one of the traditional Chinese medicine methods that prevent snoring and promote better sleep quality. The principles of traditional Chinese medicine state that your body contains 14 meridians (energy pathways) connected with different body organs.
The traditional theories state that different ailments result due to the disruption in the flow of energy in these meridians. However, the stimulation of pressure points in the body alters in the flow of energy in these meridians [1].
Acupressure is a method that could alleviate snoring, sleep deprivation, headaches, stuffy nose, and painful eyes [2].
In order to treat the area of your body causing trouble, an acupuncturist applies pressure at specific points on your body while you lay down on a massage table.
You can also self-administer acupressure. However, it is better to get the services from an acupuncturist or a physician to administer acupressure using the knuckle, finger, or thumb firmly but gently to the pressure point. The practitioner increases the pressure for about 30 seconds, holds it for one to two minutes, and then decreases the pressure for another 30 seconds [3].
In the case of the anti-snoring ring, the ring puts pressure on the little finger to stop you from snoring.
What Are the Effects of Acupressure on Sleep Quality?
Sleep deprivation or inadequate sleep can be the reason for numerous health problems like snoring, insomnia, or even heart disease. As acupressure shows no severe side effects, many studies have found a positive correlation between acupressure and improved sleep quality.
One study reported that acupressure improves sleep quality and reduces the negative consequences of poor sleep [4]. One systematic review reported that acupressure applied on HT7 acupoints could benefit everyone in improving sleep quality, even the elderly population [5]. According to a study of 25 adolescents with insomnia, acupressure results in significant sleep improvement [6].
Acupressure and Snoring
One of the most common causes of snoring is obesity that impairs your breathing by blocking the airflow in nasal passages. Doctors usually recommend dropping 15% percent of your body weight followed by a balanced diet to reduce snoring [7].
There are specific pressure points, also called acupoints, on your face that can prevent snoring by opening up the sinus cavities. Applying acupressure across the nose and light stretching can help open up the nasal passages. You can self-administer the acupressure before you fall asleep while lying in your bed.
Applying acupressure in an upward motion on the pressure point located between your eyebrows is also very helpful in alleviating snoring [8].
What Pressure Points Relate to Sleep Quality?
There are three main pressure points to which acupressure can be applied for improving sleep quality:
1. PC6 (Inner Frontier Gate)
PC6 is a helpful pressure point that improves sleep quality and relieves sleep problems by regulating the function of the stomach and heart. PC6 is the connecting point of the pericardial meridian (PC). PC6 is located between two tendons at the anterior aspect of the forearm [9].
2. Wind Pool
You can find the location of the wind pool on the back of your neck (the groove where your neck muscles connect to the skull). Applying acupressure to this point can alleviate the symptoms like nasal congestion and coughing, leading to snoring and poor sleep quality [10].
3. SP6 (Three Yin Intersection)
The location of the three Yin intersection is just above your ankle on your leg. As the name suggests, it is located at the liver, kidney, and spleen meridians (three Yin meridians). Stimulation of this point can lead to an improvement in sleep quality. Besides improving sleep quality, SP6 also reduces menstrual cramps and pelvic disorders. Pregnant women are advised not to use this pressure point because the three Yin intersection can induce labour [4].
What Is an Anti-Snoring Ring?
Anti-snoring rings are a natural way to get rid of snoring. Manufacturers use different metals to make these rings, such as sterling silver, copper, stainless steel, etc. The rings provide a non-invasive and drug-free solution to a hassle-free good night’s sleep [11].
The purpose of the anti-snoring ring is to wear it on your little finger before going to bed. Based on the science of acupressure, these rings have raised points on their inner surface. Some rings have two raised points, while others have three. These points apply pressure on acupoints on the little fingers that enable the energy to flow through the body [12].
How Does an Anti-Snoring Ring work?
The anti-snoring ring works on the ancient principles of acupressure combined with the actions of metals on the body.
This not only eliminates snoring but also corrects the bio-rhythms of the body. There is a link between the acupressure points on the body and the complex system of neurons present in skin layers.
The Action of Anti-Snoring Ring on the Nervous System
The central nervous system has neurons acting as activators of muscles responsible for supporting the upper airway patency in a normal state. The little finger is directly connected to the ulnar nerve.
This nerve is a part of the peripheral nervous system and functions mainly as a connection between the central nervous system and the organs of the body, especially limbs.
The raised points on the anti-snoring ring put pressure on this nerve and activate it. The pressure also helps in the flow of energy through the body [13].
The Additional Benefits of Metal
The anti-snoring rings made up of copper have additional benefits on the body. The particular way the blood flows through the body changes when someone wears any metallic material. Electromagnetic properties are present in the body as well as in the ring made up of metal.
Our energy level and blood flow change due to the power of ionic forces. It has been believed for many years that strong healing effects appear with the wearing of metals.
Bones, joints, and muscles can heal with its use. Although this is not the primary function of the anti-snoring ring, it balances our body and the supply of oxygen to our body in a great alternative and holistic way. The body also gets rid of toxins by using anti-snoring rings made up of copper [14].
How Does the Anti-Snoring Ring Work for Different People?
According to Chinese belief, the anti-snoring ring works better for men when worn on the right hand, while for women, it works better when worn on the left hand.
Furthermore, if anyone is suffering from any underlying medical condition, then there are chances that the anti-snoring ring might not work for them.
The Variations in the Anti-Snoring Rings
There can be some differences in the anti-snoring rings available in the market. Some rings have only one raised point providing the necessary pressure, while others have two or more. Some anti-snoring rings have more pronounced raised points than the others.
Also, some of the anti-snoring rings may contain magnets in them either on one side or on both. The anti-snoring rings usually come in three sizes; small, medium, and large. To get the maximum benefit out of them, a person needs to buy the perfect size that fits them [13].
What Does the Research Say About the Anti-snoring Ring?
Although not much evidence is available to back up the claim that acupressure applied by the anti-snoring rings does actually help eliminate snoring and getting a peaceful night of sleep. But one of the manufacturers of the anti-snoring ring claims to have conducted clinical trials.
The study noted the responses of the individuals who had a problem with snoring and their partners who shared a bed with them. The responses were gathered after using the ring for one day and 14 days. The study reported an 80% decrease in snoring [15].
The same manufacturer conducted another study on 20 snorers. The participants wore the anti-snoring ring first on their little fingers while they slept. In the second step, the participants wore the ring on their index fingers during sleep.
The study reported that it didn’t decrease the snoring when participants wore the anti-snoring ring on the index finger. This might be due to the absence of vital points of pressure on this finger. However, those participants who wore the anti-snoring ring on their little finger reported a decrease in snoring. They also reported snoring less loudly. Participants reported that they felt more energetic the next day, and their partners also had a good night’s sleep [12].
What Do People Have to Say About Anti-Snoring Rings?
We carried out an internet search to see what people say about anti-snoring rings available in Australia. We found mixed reviews from different sources. Plenty of people say that anti-snoring rings did wonders for their sleep quality and snoring. On the other hand, some people said that the rings were a sham and did not make any difference.
Conclusion
If you are in the market to find a gadget that can help you stop snoring and get peaceful nights of sleep, you might want to consider anti-snoring rings.
These non-invasive rings aim to improve airflow while a person sleeps and works on the ancient Chinese principles of energy flow. The use of this ring eliminates the need for drugs or any oral anti-snoring devices. The anti-snoring rings are comfortable, convenient to use, and very discrete.
However, keep in mind that the use of anti-snoring rings is not backed by robust scientific evidence.
The use of these rings is based on the energy-flow theory from traditional Chinese medicine. Many of the effects of these rings are possibly due to the ‘Placebo effect’ of the rings.
References:
- Wong C. The Benefits and Uses of Acupressure 2020. https://www.verywellhealth.com/the-benefits-of-acupressure-88702 (accessed July 14, 2021).
- Lee EJ, Frazier SK. The Efficacy of Acupressure for Symptom Management: A Systematic Review. J Pain Symptom Manage 2011;42:589–603. https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2011.01.007.
- Haid RW. Acupressure: A Safe Alternative Therapy n.d. https://www.spineuniverse.com/treatments/alternative/acupressure-safe-alternative-therapy (accessed July 14, 2021).
- Hmwe NTT, Browne G, Mollart L, Allanson V, Chan SW-C. Acupressure to improve sleep quality of older people in residential aged care: a randomised controlled trial protocol. Trials 2020;21:360. https://doi.org/10.1186/s13063-020-04286-2.
- Waits A, Tang Y-R, Cheng H-M, Tai C-J, Chien L-Y. Acupressure effect on sleep quality: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Sleep Med Rev 2018;37:24–34. https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1016/j.smrv.2016.12.004.
- Carotenuto M, Gallai B, Parisi L, Roccella M, Esposito M. Acupressure therapy for insomnia in adolescents: a polysomnographic study. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat 2013;9:157–62. https://doi.org/10.2147/NDT.S41892.
- Ambardekar N. How To Prevent Snoring While You Sleep 2019. https://www.webmd.com/sleep-disorders/understanding-snoring-prevention (accessed July 14, 2021).
- Aipassa M. How to reduce snoring using acupressure n.d. https://balanceyourenergybyvitaltouch.com/how-to-reduce-snoring-using-acupressure/ (accessed July 14, 2021).
- Huang W, Kutner N, Bliwise DL. A systematic review of the effects of acupuncture in treating insomnia. Sleep Med Rev 2009;13:73–104. https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1016/j.smrv.2008.04.002.
- Cirino E. Pressure Points for Sleep: 5 Pressure Points to Try for Insomnia 2018. https://www.healthline.com/health/pressure-points-for-sleep#three-yin-intersection (accessed July 14, 2021).
- Best 3 anti snore ring makes you STOP SNORING 2021 – Sleep Land n.d. https://sleep-land.com/acupressure-and-anti-snore-ring/ (accessed July 14, 2021).
- How To Stop Snoring: £30 Acupressure Ring Claims To Reduce Nightly Noises | HuffPost UK Life n.d. https://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/2013/12/20/good-night-sleep-snoring-cure_n_4478670.html (accessed July 14, 2021).
- Is It Worth Buying an Anti-Snore Ring? n.d. https://www.dawnstudy.com/anti-snore-ring (accessed July 14, 2021).
- What is Anti-Snoring Acupressure Ring and how it Works? n.d. https://snorenation.com/what-is-anti-snoring-acupressure-ring-and-how-it-works/ (accessed July 14, 2021).
- Cumbre International Ltd – ASA | CAP n.d. https://www.asa.org.uk/rulings/cumbre-international-ltd-a17-386449.html (accessed July 14, 2021).
Dr. Muhammad Usman is a Doctor, Nutritionist, Wellness Coach and a Researcher with a deep insight into all aspects of writing related to health and science.