Pulsetto is one of the more visible players in the emerging vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) space. The company claims its neck-worn device can help you “hack your stress and sleep” by electrically stimulating the vagus nerve. Their website features sleek branding, bold claims, and even endorsements from well-known influencers in the wellness world.
But a recent in-depth review by Michael Kummer—a respected biohacker and former IT executive—raises some serious red flags that demand attention. This article will summarize the core concerns about Pulsetto’s claims, backing, and effectiveness, based strictly on verifiable facts.
🧪 Claim #1: Pulsetto Is Backed by Scientific Research
The Issue:
Pulsetto has cited vagus nerve research on its site to support its claims. However, Kummer uncovered that one of Pulsetto’s featured studies had been manipulated. The original study used ear-clip electrodes, but Pulsetto replaced the image with one of their own neck device—suggesting the research was conducted using Pulsetto. It was not.
Pulsetto later removed the study from their website, but never responded to Kummer’s email requesting clarification.
🧾 Source of this claim: Michael Kummer’s full review (timestamp ~1:50)
📡 Claim #2: Pulsetto Uses "Scientifically Proven" Frequencies
The Issue:
Nearly all clinical research on VNS for anxiety, depression, and PTSD uses low-frequency stimulation—typically between 10 to 30 Hz.
In contrast, Pulsetto uses frequencies between 4,500 and 5,200 Hz, which fall outside the range used in validated VNS protocols.
As of today, no peer-reviewed scientific studies have shown that stimulation at these high frequencies is effective at activating the vagus nerve or improving vagal tone.
🧾 Supporting reference:
Burger et al., 2020 - “Transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation: State of the art.” Frontiers in Neuroscience
📉 Claim #3: Pulsetto Improves HRV, Stress, and Mood
The Issue:
Kummer conducted a personal test using a high-grade ECG strap to monitor his HRV, respiratory rate, heart rate, and mood before, during, and after a Pulsetto session.
Result: No measurable change across any biomarker. HRV remained flat, and his perceived stress did not improve.
🧪 He then performed basic breathwork exercises—which did increase his HRV and reduce stress.
This suggests that the Pulsetto device may not deliver the physiological impact it claims, at least in Kummer's case.
🧾 Source of data:
Kummer's ECG data shown in video (timestamp ~3:10)
🚩 Additional Red Flags
🔬 No Frequency Justification
Pulsetto has not published any rationale for its use of high-frequency stimulation or provided access to internal research supporting the effectiveness of its protocols.
💊 Hidden Supplement Facts
The company also markets a nootropic supplement called “Cognitive Support,” but fails to publish a Supplement Facts label, dosage breakdown, or list of inactive ingredients—an unusual omission for a consumer wellness brand.
🧾 FDA regulations require dietary supplement labels to disclose this information under 21 CFR 101.36
🤖 Influencer Hype vs. Real Results
Pulsetto has relied heavily on influencer endorsements—most notably Ben Greenfield, a well-known biohacker. But as Kummer points out, influencer promotions are not evidence, and the product’s performance in real-world tests has yet to match the hype.
✅ What To Look For in a Trustworthy VNS Device
If you're evaluating vagus nerve stimulation tools, consider these criteria:
| Feature | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Scientific Validity | Does it follow protocols used in peer-reviewed research (e.g., 10–30 Hz)? |
| Transparent Marketing | Are study claims accurate and honestly represented? |
| Biometric Response | Does the device produce measurable effects on HRV, mood, or relaxation? |
| Regulatory Clarity | Does the company clearly state FDA classification or wellness status? |
| Ingredient Transparency (if supplements offered) | Are all ingredients and dosages disclosed per FDA guidelines? |
🧠 Final Verdict
Let’s be clear: vagus nerve stimulation is real, and there are credible devices on the market that show measurable physiological effects. But based on:
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The use of unproven stimulation frequencies
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Falsified imagery in cited research
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Lack of published efficacy data
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And no HRV or mood improvements in biometric testing
…it is reasonable to question whether Pulsetto’s product performs as claimed.
None of this necessarily proves Pulsetto is a “scam”—but it does show a pattern of misleading behavior, unsupported scientific claims, and lack of measurable outcomes in at least one well-controlled N=1 test.
👀 Proceed with Caution
Until Pulsetto:
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Publishes independent, peer-reviewed clinical data,
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Discloses full product specifications and supplement ingredients, and
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Demonstrates efficacy with reliable physiological measurements,
…consumers may want to explore alternative VNS tools that meet higher scientific and ethical standards.