What are Biophotons?
Biophotons are biological photons, pulses of light that are produced and radiated by cells in living organisms, including humans. They’re not a side-effect of heat or damage, but a natural part of how our cells function. These photons tend to fall within the ultraviolet (UV) range of the electromagnetic spectrum. We can’t see this type of light with our eyes, but it has a range of powerful effects on us.
Unlike visible light, UV-range biophotons are subtle and precise. They’re produced during normal cellular processes like metabolism, oxidation, and DNA activity. In other words, our cells glow — just very faintly — as they go about their daily work.
How are Biophotons made?
Molecules Biophotons are released when molecules inside cells become “excited” during energy use and chemical reactions. As these molecules return to a lower energy state, they emit photons — tiny particles of light. This happens most during processes involving oxygen and energy conversion. For example, cells release photons when they produce Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP), the body’s energy currency. Biophotons are released across the body but particularly in the brain, heart, and nervous system. These are regions where information needs to move rapidly and efficiently.
Biophotons and Cellular Communication
These biophotons might make up a coherent biological communication system. Currently, the most well known communication systems are the endocrine system (hormones) and the nervous system (electrical/chemical). It could be that our bodies utilise light to receive and transmit information. And this is where it gets particularly interesting for me.
Biophotons, UV light and Melanin
You’ll know from elsewhere on this website that eumelanin has a strong capacity to absorb energy in the ultraviolet range. Eumelanin also has semiconductor capacity, meaning it can transmit electricity under certain circumstances. Aside from the skin and hair, eumelanin is present in high concentrations in the inner ear and the brain (neuromelanin). Putting these facts together, I believe there’s a strong chance that eumelanin is heavily involved in biophotons. I’ll be keeping a close eye on the research around biophotons to see what more we learn about eumelanin’s possible role.
Why Biophotons matter
Understanding biophotons reminds us of the deep complexity within our bodies. Our cells don’t just function chemically — they literally emit light, especially in the ultraviolet range. And with eumelanin’s unique relationship to UV energy, there may be untapped insights into the strengths and sensitivities of melanin-rich bodies. Supporting our children’s health, rest, and learning doesn’t just feed their bodies — it nurtures the light within them.
Further Study
Biophotons May Shed New Light on Body and Brain Activity
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-behavioral-microbiome/202505/biophotons-may-shed-new-light-on-body-and-brain-activity
Nirosha Murugan: The Energetic Landscape of Life:
