The History of Richway International and the Amethyst Biomat

Introduction

Throughout history, only a handful of products have stood the test of time, gaining recognition for their efficacy and longevity. The Richway Amethyst Biomat is one such product. We will uncover the fascinating history of Richway International and the Amethyst Biomat, tracing its roots back to its inception and exploring its journey towards becoming a trusted and reputable FDA-approved medical device.

The Founders of Richway

The founders of Richway International, Jeanna and Calvin Kim, originally worked in the jewelry industry, which led them to travel to Japan and Korea. This demanding and stressful business took a toll on their health. Calvin experienced health issues such as high blood pressure, clogged arteries, fatigue, and headaches. As a result, he decided to quit smoking. Jeanna, on the other hand, suffered from a persistent itchiness that caused hives, welts, bleeding skin, and extreme discomfort. Despite searching for relief for years, she couldn't find a solution and had to cover up her entire body due to the poor condition of her skin. She felt internally toxic, and her body was reacting in an uncomfortable manner to this toxicity.

In September of 1996, the Kims stumbled upon an opportunity to purchase a Korean Jade mine. Initially, their intention was to utilize the jade in their jewelry business. However, their plans quickly changed when Calvin witnessed a large number of people visiting the jade mine for therapeutic benefits. Every day, hundreds of individuals would come to sit inside the jade mine. Calvin was astonished by this discovery. The acquisition of the mine marked a significant turning point in the lives of Calvin and Jeanna Kim.

Discovering Thermotherapy

They quickly realized that there was a high demand for jade in powder form among buyers. The Kims became aware that a medical device company called Richway Korea was utilizing the powder in the production of their medical thermotherapy mats. Intrigued by this discovery and facing their own health issues, Calvin decided to try one of the jade mats and personally experienced the remarkable health advantages it offered. Recognizing the immense sales opportunity presented by such a device, Calvin and Jeanna successfully persuaded their jewelry company to invest in the under-promoted Richway Korea.

History of Richway International

After acquiring complete ownership of the medical device company and its laboratory in 1997, the Kims established Richway International in Honolulu, Hawaii. As they delved deeper into their research and exploration, they discovered the advantageous aspects of crystal healing. Collaborating with medical professionals, laboratories, and scientists, the Kims successfully created their inaugural product, the Jade Biomat. This paved the way for the establishment of a global network marketing company aimed at promoting and selling the Jade Biomat. Furthermore, they also developed additional products, including the Alkal Life Water Ionizer and the Rejuvena Facial System.

After conducting research for three years, it was initially believed that the health benefits of the Biomat were derived from the heat produced by the infrared technology. However, further investigation revealed that the main benefit actually came from the "vibrational energy" provided by far infrared rays. FIR energy is taken in or absorbed by the vibrational levels of bonds present in molecules. When these photons interact with the molecules, they cause the bonds within the molecules to vibrate at specific frequencies. This absorption of FIR energy by the molecular bonds can have various effects, such as inducing changes in the molecular structure or promoting specific chemical reactions. Understanding this process is crucial to understanding how far infrared light interacts with the body and how it delivers its health benefits.  The Kims likened this process to when a bell is struck and the vibrations continue after the initial strike.  They learned that when infrared light interacted with the human body, its beneficial affects reverberated throughout the body and long after the infrared light (the initial strike) was removed.

As a result, the research department at Richway delved into studying the energy spectrum to identify the healthiest and most natural frequencies of infrared rays. This led to the discovery that amethyst is an exceptional energy conductor and can maintain a constant steady vibration unlike any other gemstone. 

While various things generate some form of infrared ray and energetic frequency, upon observing the energetic spectrum of amethyst, Richway noticed its remarkable similarity to the frequency of the human body. This may explain why amethyst is often referred to as "the peace stone."

The research conducted also enabled Richway to enhance the BioMat technologies by incorporating two types of infrared waves. One type is known as a "photon" infrared wave, with a wavelength of 6.5 microns. The other is a "phermo" infrared wave, ranging from 9 to 12 microns.

Additionally, Richway studied the exact composition of abundant negative ions found in nature, such as in a vibrant virgin forest, in order to replicate the healthiest sources for the human body.

All of this research, done exclusively by Richway, led to the development of the Amethyst Biomat, and after a few years, Richway phased out the Jade Biomat in favor of this masterpiece.

The Amethyst Biomat is Born

In 2001, RichWay introduced a single and queen-sized Amethyst BioMat to the market. However, the process of creating these mats was incredibly labor-intensive. The Amethyst crystals had to be hand-mined and individually inserted into each BioMat. These crystals then underwent a series of steps, including processing to remove sharp edges, sorting for size, washing for shine, and hand-feeding into the mats. This meticulous process required human attention and could not be automated. As a result, the mats were priced at $4,000.00 for a single and $6,000.00 for a queen size.

Fortunately, the California Massage Association came to the rescue. They collaborated with RichWay to place a special order for 3,000 Amethyst BioMats specifically designed for massage tables. This partnership provided the opportunity for RichWay to invest in their own Amethyst crystal mine. By owning the mine, RichWay was able to significantly reduce the cost of producing the Amethyst BioMat, making them more affordable for a wider range of customers.  To this day, thousands of massage therapists around the world use the Biomat Professional.

Enter Fuji Bio, Inc.

In 2004, RichWay International formed a strategic partnership with FujiBio Science, a renowned organization based in Japan. This collaboration has proven to be highly advantageous for Richway International due to several key factors.

First and foremost, FujiBio Science is widely recognized for its exceptional expertise in product development. With their cutting-edge research and development capabilities, they have consistently delivered innovative and high-quality products to the market. This partnership has allowed Richway International to tap into FujiBio Science's extensive labs and leverage their scientific advancements to enhance their own product offerings.

Moreover, FujiBio Science boasts a significant workforce, comprising skilled professionals who are dedicated to pushing the boundaries of scientific knowledge. By joining forces with a company that has ample manpower, Richway International has gained access to a vast pool of talent and resources. This has enabled them to accelerate their product development processes and meet the ever-evolving demands of the global marketplace.

Furthermore, FujiBio Science holds a formidable position in the world marketplace. Their strong reputation and widespread presence have opened up new avenues for Richway International to expand their reach and establish a stronger foothold in international markets. This partnership has provided Richway International with invaluable opportunities to showcase their products to a broader audience, increasing their brand visibility and market share.

Acquiring the amethyst mine and then forging a partnership with Fuji Bio has allowed Richway to be the only infrared therapy mat manufacturer that can oversee every step of the manufacturing process to ensure that their products, including the revolutionary Amethyst Biomat, remain the gold standard in their markets.

Third Party Research

In 2009, a groundbreaking book titled "The Fourth Treatment for Medical Refugees – Thermotherapy in the New Century" was published by the renowned Japanese doctor, Nobuhiro Yoshimizu, M.D., Ph.D., who was a previous director of Yokohama General Hospital. This revolutionary book presents a comprehensive exploration of thermotherapy as an innovative medical treatment option.  In this book, Dr. Yoshimizu documents case studies using patients suffering from different forms of cancer using the Richway Amethyst Biomat.

Recognizing the global significance of the book's content, it has been translated into multiple languages. This enables a wider audience to engage with the concepts and principles outlined in the book, fostering a global conversation and understanding of the potential of thermotherapy in the field of medicine. The availability of translations ensures that individuals from various linguistic backgrounds can access this vital resource and explore its implications for their own health and well-being.

In 2011, Dr. George Grant, PhD, a renowned researcher from Toronto, conducted a groundbreaking study on the effectiveness of the Biomat in managing stress. This study was published in the prestigious International Journal of Aesthetic and Anti-Ageing Medicine, showcasing the significance of his findings. The article has since been featured in Prime Journal Magazine, solidifying its importance in the field of stress management.

The study conducted by Dr. Grant has provided valuable insights into the benefits of using the Biomat as a stress management tool. Through rigorous research and analysis, Dr. Grant established a strong correlation between the use of the Biomat and a reduction in stress levels. This groundbreaking discovery has revolutionized the way stress is managed and has opened up new possibilities for individuals seeking effective stress relief.

The article published by Dr. Grant has gained widespread recognition and is now available for distributors and their clients through Richway. This availability ensures that individuals interested in the study can access it easily, further promoting awareness and understanding of the Biomat's stress management capabilities.

The inclusion of Dr. Grant's study in Prime Journal Magazine showcases the significance of his research in the medical community. It highlights the recognition and acceptance of his findings by experts in the field, further validating the effectiveness of the Biomat as a stress management tool.

The impact of Dr. Grant's study extends beyond the academic realm. Distributors and their clients now have the opportunity to access this valuable resource, enabling them to make informed decisions about incorporating the Biomat into their stress management routines. This accessibility ensures that individuals can benefit from the insights gathered by Dr. Grant, leading to improved well-being and a better quality of life.

In conclusion, Dr. George Grant's study on stress management using the Biomat has made significant contributions to the field. Its publication in the International Journal of Aesthetic and Anti-Ageing Medicine, as well as its availability through Richway and Prime Journal Magazine, highlights its importance and impact. This study has paved the way for individuals to effectively manage stress and improve their overall well-being.

Also in 2009, Richway was honored by the United Nations for the Biomat and its significant contribution to promoting peace, health, and culture for the betterment of humanity.

Upgrading Manufacturing Facilities

In late 2012, RichWay International made a significant move by relocating their manufacturing facility to the prestigious ACE High-End Tower in Seoul, Korea. The manufacturing facility is now situated on the eleventh floor penthouse, offering a breathtaking view of the city skyline. This strategic move has provided Richway International with an upgraded area spanning a total of 25,000 square feet, allowing them to accommodate a wide range of manufacturing processes.

The new manufacturing space at ACE High-End Tower is not only spacious but also equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge technology. This upgrade signifies Richway International's commitment to enhancing their production capabilities and ensuring the highest quality standards for their products.

By expanding their manufacturing facility, Richway International is poised to meet the growing demands of their customers and the market. The increased production levels will enable them to fulfill orders more efficiently and effectively, ensuring timely delivery and customer satisfaction.

Moreover, the move to ACE High-End Tower showcases Richway International's dedication to creating a conducive environment for their employees. The penthouse location offers a serene and inspiring workplace, fostering creativity and productivity among the manufacturing team.

With this exciting new space, Richway International is well-positioned to elevate their manufacturing operations to new heights. The expanded facility will not only enable them to meet the current demands of their customers but also allows for future growth and innovation. Richway International is confident that this move will propel them towards a prosperous future in the manufacturing industry.

Entering the Chinese Market

By 2013, the Biomat experienced a tremendous surge in popularity within the Chinese market, leading to the establishment of a dedicated division with warehousing facilities to meet the growing demand. During the same year, significant enhancements were made to the entire BioMat production line, resulting in improved performance and increased efficiency.

To cater to the soaring demand, the company recognized the need for expansion and established a separate division equipped with warehousing facilities. This strategic move allowed them to efficiently store and distribute the Biomat within the Chinese market, ensuring timely delivery and customer satisfaction.

Upgrading the Amethyst Biomat

In addition to expanding their operations, in 2013, the company also invested in upgrading the Biomat production line to further enhance its quality and performance. The introduction of new controllers and additional layers to the production process marked a significant milestone in improving the overall functionality and reliability of the Biomat.

By incorporating advanced, touchscreen controllers, the company was able to optimize the operational aspects of the Biomat, resulting in smoother functionality and enhanced user experience. These controllers provided more precise temperature control and improved safety measures, including a step-down function for the highest temperatures, ensuring that customers could enjoy the benefits of the Biomat with utmost convenience and peace of mind.

Furthermore, the addition of a new layer to the Biomat played a crucial role in elevating the health benefits of the mat. This layer was carefully designed and selected to enhance the therapeutic properties of the product, making it even more effective in promoting relaxation, pain relief, and overall well-being. 

The addition of a Tourmaline layer underneath the Amethyst Crystals has been done to enhance the production of Negative Ions on the Biomats. This layer is known as TOCA, which stands for TOurmaline CAtch Powder. The amount of Tourmaline in each mat has been increased, although not all of it is visible.  This also increased the output of negative ions to 1500 per cubic centimeter.

The improvements made to the BioMat production line in 2013 not only showcased the company's commitment to meeting the growing demand but also reflected their dedication to continuous innovation and customer satisfaction. With these enhancements, the Biomat became an even more desirable and sought-after product within the Chinese market, solidifying its position as a leading brand in the industry.

The Partnership Becomes a Marriage of Two Powerhouses

In 2014, Richway and Fuji Bio Inc. came together through a merger, bringing about continued product improvements. As a result of this merger, the manufacturer's website underwent a transformation and is now known as RichWayAndFujiBio.com. This new website serves as a hub for customers to explore and learn about the various products and offerings from both Richway and Fuji Bio Inc.

During this same year, an exciting addition was introduced to enhance the Biomat experience. The Quantum Energy Pad (QEP) was launched as an optional add-on to provide users with increased comfort and additional health benefits. This innovative pad is designed to complement the Biomat and is available in all sizes, with the exception of the Mini Biomat.

The introduction of the QEP marked a significant milestone in the journey of RichWay and Fuji Bio Inc., as it showcased their commitment to continuously improving and expanding their product offerings. With the QEP, customers can now enjoy an enhanced Biomat experience, further enhancing their overall well-being and comfort. 

As the manufacturer website underwent a rebranding and the QEP was introduced, 2014 proved to be a transformative year for RichWay and Fuji Bio Inc. These advancements not only solidified their position as leaders in the industry but also showcased their commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction.

2015 Biomat Upgrades

In 2015, two new upgrades were given to the Biomat. A new layer was introduced as well as new carrying cases.

The Biomat was enhanced with an extra layer called the Quantum Energy Layer, which is created using powdered extracts from peach and grape seeds, which have their own subset of healing properties. This layer enhances the detoxification effects of the Biomat. Additionally, the Copper fabric layer, known as layer #6, has been improved (see 17-layer construction of the Biomat).

New and improved carrying cases were introduced for the Biomat Professional and Mini Biomat. These upgraded cases offer customers an enhanced transportation and protection solution.

Key Features of the Enhanced Design:

1. Enhanced Convenience: The new cases are designed for ultimate ease and convenience during transportation. The cases are specifically designed to provide optimal transportation for Biomats, keeping them secure and protected.

2. Improved Durability: Made with reinforced high impact materials, these cases ensure superior durability and longevity. With their hard shell construction, these cases offer enhanced protection for the Biomats, safeguarding them from potential damage.

3. Ease of Maneuverability: The Professional Biomat size case is equipped with rotating wheels, allowing for effortless maneuverability.

4. Stylish Design: The Carry Cases for USA & Canada now come in a vibrant purple color, adding a touch of style to your transportation experience.

Please note: Other countries will continue to receive the black canvas carry cases.

International Improvements

Starting from January 2016, the Biomats that are shipped within China will now be marketed as the Biomattress. This change is due to the CVC regulations that require a maximum temperature of 140°F/60°C. Therefore, the temperature range of the Biomattress will be from 77°F/25°C to 140°F/60°C. It is important to note that the Biomattress is the only product from RichWay that is sold in China. To better serve customers, a new Service Center has been established in China, and the staff at this location, as well as in South Korea, will be able to assist with any shipping inquiries to China. YTO Express has been selected as Richway's shipping carrier in China.

In early 2016, an additional Service Center has been set up in the Netherlands, and UPS has been chosen as Richway's shipping carrier for this location. This Service Center will cater to Europe Zone I & 2, non-EU countries, Germany, and the UK. Customers in these areas can make their purchases using Euros.

BioAcoustic Mat

The biggest addition to Richway's product offerings in the last five years is the BioAcoustic Mat.  

The Richway BioAcoustic Mat™ is an innovative therapy device designed to provide deep relief to joints and muscle tissue. By utilizing a low-frequency sound generator, this mat delivers a soothing vibroacoustic massage that effectively penetrates the body.

This mat incorporates specific frequencies that work to guide the mind into various therapeutic states. Drawing inspiration from the principles of vibrational healing, musical entrainment, and binaural beats, the BioAcoustic Mat offers four music soundtracks that cater to relaxation, improved sleep, stress relief, and enhanced energy levels.

These soundtracks have been expertly engineered by Dr. Lee Bartel, a renowned authority in the field of vibroacoustic therapy. With the BioAcoustic Mat, users can experience the benefits of this cutting-edge technology and enjoy the transformative effects it has on their overall well-being.

2023 Grant Study on Using the Biomat to Reduce Cancer Pain

Dr. Grant's third Biomat Study has demonstrated the effectiveness of Biomat use in significantly reducing pain for cancer patients. He is actively involved in establishing multi-center studies to replicate his findings with larger patient populations.

Dr. George Grant conducted a study on the effectiveness of the Richway Biomat in reducing pain for cancer patients. 

In his study, Dr. Grant focused on a group of cancer patients who were experiencing chronic pain as a result of their condition or cancer treatments. The participants were randomly assigned to either a control group or a treatment group that received sessions on the Richway Biomat.

Throughout the study, various pain assessment tools were used to measure the level of pain experienced by the participants. These tools included self-reported pain scales, visual analog scales, and pain diaries. The participants' pain levels were assessed before and after each session on the Biomat, as well as at regular intervals throughout the study.

The results of Dr. Grant's study showed a significant reduction in pain levels among the participants who received sessions on the Richway Biomat. The treatment group reported lower pain scores compared to the control group, indicating that the Biomat was effective in reducing pain for cancer patients.

Furthermore, the study also found that the participants who used the Richway Biomat experienced improvements in overall well-being and quality of life. They reported feeling more relaxed, less fatigued, and better able to cope with the physical and emotional challenges of cancer.

One possible explanation for the pain-relieving effects of the Richway Biomat is its ability to increase blood flow and circulation. The far infrared heat emitted by the Biomat penetrates deep into the body, dilating blood vessels and improving oxygen and nutrient delivery to the tissues. This increased circulation can help reduce inflammation and promote healing, leading to a reduction in pain.

It's important to note that while Dr. Grant's study provides promising results, further research is needed to validate these findings and understand the mechanisms behind the pain-relieving effects of the Richway Biomat. Additionally, individual responses to the Biomat may vary, and it should not be considered a substitute for conventional medical treatments for cancer pain. He encourages people to seek medical advice from their doctor about managing their pain.

In conclusion, Dr. George Grant's study suggests that the Richway Biomat may be an effective complementary therapy for reducing pain in cancer patients. Its ability to provide heat therapy, promote relaxation, and improve circulation may contribute to its pain-relieving effects. However, more research is needed to fully understand its potential benefits and to determine its role in comprehensive cancer care.

The Future is Bright for Richway Customers

If the history of Richway and the Amethyst Biomat tells us anything, its that this company has continued to innovate and realizes that to keep their products at the forefront of the alternative healthcare market, they must never stop doing so.  

Richway didn't just introduce the very first infrared therapy mat to the world, it has continued to improve upon the Amethyst Biomat in order to deliver the very best in infrared heat therapy.  As a result, the Biomat is unmatched in its category.  No other infrared mat has come close to matching the quality, safety, or effectiveness of the Biomat.

By introducing other products like the Quantum Energy Pad and BioAcoustic Mat, Richway has shown its interest in providing innovation into the healthcare market on an ongoing basis.

Solidifying its partnership with Fuji Bio, Inc. assures that Richway customers are getting the most cutting-edge, quality-controlled alternative healthcare products on the planet.