Vega testing is a form of modified electro-acupuncture. It is an unorthodox technique which offers to help diagnose allergic and other diseases. The scientific basis of this type of testing is considered controversial by standard medical groups, however, its application in European countries by physicians is strongly supported.

Theoretical Basis

Testing with the Vega machine is one of the bioenergetic regulatory techniques that has its origins in acupuncture and homeopathy. Its basis is the concept of "energetic pathology", which postulates that the first sign of abnormality in the body is an electrical charge.

Further, if abnormal electrical charges continue for long enough, then eventually structural changes will ensue. The Vega machine measures one aspect of these bioenergetic phenomena by recording the change in skin conductivity after the application of a small voltage. Localisation of the source of an abnormal response is accomplished by placing substances in this electrical loop.

Development of Vega Testing

The technique that antedates Vega testing is electro-acupuncture according to Voll (known as EAV). In the 1950s, a German doctor, Reinholdt Voll, promoted the concept that electrical changes at specific acupuncture points were related to pathology or diseases in the organs to which the measured point belonged. Voll developed a complex diagnostic system based on the acupuncture meridian system. Further, he placed extracts of medicines into series in the circuit and claimed that useful medicines could thus be detected. His technique necessitated the measurement at many acupuncture points. Another German doctor, Helmut Schimmel, used only one skin point as an indicator. The apparatus which he developed in the early 1970s used this principle and was the Vega test system.

Vega Testing Apparatus and Technique

The apparatus consists of a box which contains a galvanometer (Wheatstone bridge circuit). This compares the resistance between the skin in contact with a hand electrode and the skin tested with a measuring stylus. The other contents of the box are an electrical source to provide a direct voltage of 0.87 volt through the patient, and a metal honeycomb in which ampoules can be placed in series with the circuit. A dial with 100 scale divisions shows 100 when the connected resistance is 0, and shows 0 when the connected resistance is infinity. Initially, a piezoelectric spark generator (producing 400 volts/second), is applied to the patient. This "stresses" the patient and is claimed to unmask weaknesses in the body. The patient grasps the hand electrode, and a control measurement is made by applying the stylus (probe) to the patient's finger or toe. The machine is adjusted until a reading of 80 to 100 scale units is produced. A chosen extract is now placed in the circuit and the measurement repeated. A drop of 15 scale units or more is considered a positive result. It should be emphasised that the various extracts are in homoeopathic doses. Dilutions of 10-4 or greater are usual. In addition, these extracts are in sealed ampoules which are inserted into the metal honeycomb. The ampoules are not opened. The current flows around these ampoules.

Allergies or intolerances to any substances can be detected by placing extracts of these substances in the circuit. There appears to be no restrictions on the type of material that can be tested. The detection of food intolerances is claimed to be quick and reliable and about 80% accurate.

Vega testing is promoted for the investigation into environmental contaminants & intolerances, food allergy & intolerances, organ weaknesses, potential infectious agents, and investigating potential harmful reactions from both medications & nutritional supplements.

In Dr. Lemmo's experience, electrodermal screening using Vega has provided valuable information for several patients, especially in areas where standard medical tests have been limited or inconclusive. The testing procedure is non-invasive, safe, and the results can be attained quickly.