Title: Meghan Markle Sparks Controversy with Mysterious Anti-Stress Patch
Subtitle: DailyMail.com Tests NuCalm’s Promising Stress-Reducing Sticker
In a recent public appearance, Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, caused quite a stir with her fashion choice. However, what truly caught attention was a small blue sticker on her left wrist – an anti-stress NuCalm patch that has garnered significant popularity among wellness enthusiasts and biohackers alike. Promising to provide “resonance and frequencies,” this peculiar accessory has sparked both curiosity and skepticism.
With a high baseline stress level, a DailyMail.com writer was immediately intrigued by the potential benefits of the NuCalm patch. Prepared to pay $80 for a pack of 20 stickers, along with a monthly fee for the companion app, they were hopeful that this product could counter their daily stressors.
Despite the marketing claims, the effects of the patch seemed to be placebo during DailyMail.com’s week-long trial. The discs, when coupled with the NuCalm app, offered marginal benefits for sleep. The anti-anxiety effects were met with skepticism, as they appeared to be psychosomatic rather than rooted in sound science.
Upon exploring NuCalm’s website, the writer encountered complex scientific jargon that seemed intentionally designed to mask the fact that the sticker is based on traditional Chinese medicine techniques, rather than scientifically proven methods. While initial trials showed a reduction in general stress, it was unclear whether this was a placebo effect or a result of sheer optimism about an alternative anxiety treatment.
The sticker, when placed on the inside of the left wrist at the Pericardium-6 acupuncture point, is said to send signals to the pericardium, the protective sac around the heart. This signal supposedly activates the parasympathetic nervous system, interfering with the body’s response to external stress.
During the trial period, the writer experienced moments of reduced stress and anxiety, but also noticed that the effects were short-lived. As the week progressed, bouts of uneasiness returned, but the visibility of the sticker served as a reminder to relax.
Scientific research supporting the efficacy of the NuCalm patch was elusive. Despite claims of being “clinically proven,” no clinical trials or research on wearable bio-signaling discs were found. While sleep quality showed slight improvement, it was challenging to separate the effects of the patch from external factors.
NuCalm credits the small disc inside each sticker with activating the nervous system responsible for modulating stress responses. However, the exact contents of the disc remain unclear. The company mentions frequency-tuning and sound resonance, but also claims that the discs contain a blend of inhibitory neurotransmitters.
Critics argue that the company’s claims are murky and lack solid scientific backing. NuCalm CEO Jim Poole, who does not have a scientific background, has mentioned the inclusion of tiny Tesla coils in the discs, emitting specific frequencies. The technology behind the product was developed by neuroscientist Dr. Blake Holloway over a 20-year period.
While some testimonials express positive experiences, such as feelings of deep relaxation and calmness, skepticism remains. The high price tag may not deter those committed to improving their well-being, but it prompts a closer examination of NuCalm’s promises.
In the end, the NuCalm anti-stress patch, with its enigmatic claims and controversial origins, leaves users to decide whether its effects are truly beneficial or simply the result of a deeply-rooted desire for stress relief.