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The peer-reviewed science behind Stillwave.
In 2025, researchers at Nagoya University discovered that a specific 100 Hz pure tone can activate the vestibular system and reduce motion sickness symptoms. This is the science Stillwave is built on.
The study, published in Environmental Health and Preventive Medicine, tested frequencies from 90 to 1,000 Hz and found that 100 Hz at 80-85 dBZ specifically activates vestibular function through the otoconia — tiny calcium carbonate crystals in the inner ear.
In human trials with 82 participants, just 1 minute of 100 Hz exposure before motion significantly reduced motion sickness symptoms measured by posturography (balance) and autonomic nervous system markers.
The effect lasted up to 2 hours in animal studies, with the protective window between 60 and 120 minutes showing the strongest results.
The otoconia in your inner ear are responsible for sensing linear acceleration — the feeling of speeding up, slowing down, and tilting. When exposed to a 100 Hz pure tone at the right volume, these crystals vibrate in a way that pre-activates the vestibular system.
Think of it like warming up before exercise. By pre-activating your balance system, your brain is better prepared to handle the conflicting signals that cause motion sickness.
The study confirmed this mechanism by testing ears without otoconia — the effect disappeared, proving that the otoconia are the specific target of the 100 Hz sound.
The study directly tested: vehicle motion (real cars), swing motion, and driving simulator motion in adult participants.
Not yet tested: boat motion, airplane motion, VR sickness, children, pregnant women, or elderly populations.
The 2-hour duration was confirmed in animal studies. Human trials measured immediate effects only.
Yes, for specific conditions. The Nagoya University study was peer-reviewed and published in Environmental Health and Preventive Medicine. It showed statistically significant reduction in motion sickness symptoms (p<0.01) in real vehicle conditions.
The researchers tested frequencies from 90 to 1,000 Hz. Only 100 Hz at 80-85 dBZ specifically activated the otoconia. A 250 Hz control tone showed no effect.
Yes. 80-85 dBZ is lower than typical urban noise levels. The study measured hearing function before and after exposure and found no effect on hearing. No participants reported discomfort.
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