From “Back to Origin” to a New Way of Looking at Water
Kangen is a Japanese word meaning “Back to Origin.” Discover the story behind Kangen Water and the ideas that helped inspire the development of modern water ionization technology.
JAPANESE WORD & PHILOSOPHY
KANGEN
“Back to Origin”
The word Kangen reflects the idea of returning something to its original state. It became closely associated with the philosophy behind Kangen Water and the pursuit of better water for everyday life.
Scientists Began Looking More Closely at Water
In the 1950s, a group of scientists started a research project investigating notable water sources around the world, including pilgrimage sites such as Lourdes in France, known for historical accounts of unique water.
Researchers became interested in understanding what might make these natural water sources chemically or physically different from ordinary municipal tap water.
1950s: Global Water Research Begins
Scientific investigation into unique natural water sources around the world and their distinct physical properties.
1960s: Electrolysis Technology Developed
Discovery of active hydrogen levels and creation of mechanical electrolysis systems producing electrolyzed reduced water.
1974: Enagic International Co. Established
Founded in Japan as an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM). The technology was first distributed as medical-grade water ionization systems for Japanese hospitals before expanding to residential homes.
What Was Different About the Water?
Japanese scientists discovered that water samples from these notable sites exhibited higher levels of active hydrogen and alkaline mineral concentrations compared to typical water.
Water Composition
Examining the fundamental molecular structure and mineral content of water beyond basic purity.
Active Hydrogen
Identifying dissolved molecular hydrogen gas (H2) and its potential role in antioxidant activity.
Electrolysis Process
Passing filtered water over titanium plates to split water into ionized alkaline and acidic streams.
Could Water With Special Properties Be Produced at Home?
Following interest in these water characteristics, Japanese engineers pioneered water ionizers designed first for hospital use, and later refined for residential countertops.
Enagic International Co.
Over 50 years of specialized water ionization craftsmanship.
Japanese company with half a century of engineering heritage and manufacturing integrity.
First distributed Kangen water ionizers into Japanese medical institutions before home adoption.
Original Equipment Manufacturer with complete in-house production and quality control in Osaka, Japan.
Understanding Water Electrolysis
Electrolysis uses clean electric energy passed through platinum-coated titanium plates inside the machine. This separates tap water into two distinct streams: alkalized water for drinking and mild acidic water for beauty or cleaning.
Rich in dissolved molecular hydrogen and essential alkaline minerals such as calcium and potassium for daily hydration.
Mildly acidic water settings suitable for facial care, toning, and household non-drinking applications.
From an Idea About Water to the Water in Your Glass
Today, Kangen Water is produced through water ionization technology designed to create different types of water for different everyday uses. But understanding where the story began is only the first step. The next question is what makes the water different.