ZAP AWAY PROBLEMS IN THE COMFORT OF HOME

You can now buy vagus-stimlulating devices to use at home. We asked the experts for their verdict.

PARASYM

£599. parasym.co THIS hand-held gadget is connected via a cable to ear clips that deliver electric pulses. It claims to help with tinnitus, depression and sleep problems. EXPERT VERDICT: Jim Deuchars, a professor of neuroscience at Leeds University, says: ‘We don’t know if it will treat these conditions, as the research isn’t clear.’

ALPHA-STIM AID

£450, currentbody.com (below left) ATTACHED to the ear lobe by clips, the device eases stress, anxiety, insomnia and depression, says the maker. EXPERT VERDICT: Professor Deuchars says research is mixed. ‘One study found it benefited sleep, while another didn’t,’ he adds.

SENSATE 2

£199, getsensate.com (right) THIS vibrating device is placed on top of the chest while you lie flat. The maker claims the vibrations travel to the vagus nerve, which improves heart rate variability, eases tension and improves sleep. Use with an app that guides you through deep-breathing exercises and plays calming music. EXPERT VERDICT: ‘It may be more likely that any benefits are due to the act of lying down and relaxing,’ says Dr Ben Metcalfe, a specialist in electrical engineering. Professor Deuchars adds: ‘Even if it influences heart rate variability, it will be difficult to know which intervention — relaxation, deep breathing or vibrations — are responsible.’ Consult a medical professional before using these devices.