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18 Hz Infrasound Boosts Cortisol, Heightens Irritability in Study

4/29/2026

Summary

Researchers Find Infrasound Effects

MacEwan University and the University of Alberta reported that 18 Hz infrasound exposure raised cortisol in 36 volunteers.
The exposure increased irritability and made music sound sadder.
Because participants could not detect the infrasound, its perceived presence did not affect cortisol or mood.
Authors cautioned that the sample limits conclusions, urged testing frequencies and longer exposures, and noted that infrasound is common near ventilation, traffic and aging pipes, explaining haunted sensations.

Summary

Researchers Probe Castles

Researchers will probe historic UK castles for infrasound after Alberta trials.
The paper lists vibrating pipes, HVAC units, traffic and wind turbines as common infrasound sources.
Richard Wiseman’s 2003 tests at Hampton Court and Edinburgh’s South Bridge Vaults linked haunt perceptions to magnetic fields, humidity and lighting.
A Mary King’s Close study found 70 percent felt cold or footsteps in low-humidity areas, which researchers said expectation of ghosts amplifies.

Summary

Researchers Link Infrasound

The field trial was abandoned after noisy EEG and startle data, prompting the team to move the study to a lab.
In the lab they found higher cortisol, irritability and sadness but no anxiety increase, suggesting anxiety may need stronger or longer infrasound exposure.
They reported that traffic generates infrasound, which may raise urban tension, and that work will examine the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel basements where infrasound is higher.

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Researchers Find Infrasound Effects

MacEwan University and the University of Alberta reported that 18 Hz infrasound exposure raised cortisol in 36 volunteers.
The exposure increased irritability and made music sound sadder.
Because participants could not detect the infrasound, its perceived presence did not affect cortisol or mood.
Authors cautioned that the sample limits conclusions, urged testing frequencies and longer exposures, and noted that infrasound is common near ventilation, traffic and aging pipes, explaining haunted sensations.

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