The Effects of Music Tuned to 432 Hz vs. 440 Hz on Mental Health: a Systematic Review

Music has been increasingly recognized as an integrative therapeutic practice that promotes physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Evidence indicates that it may stimulate neurotransmitter release, such as dopamine, contributing to relaxation and emotional regulation. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the effects of music therapy tuned to 432 Hz and 440 Hz frequencies on mental health outcomes, exploring its therapeutic potential in different clinical contexts. Comprehensive searches were performed in PubMed, PsycINFO, Cochrane, Web of Science, Scopus, Embase, and Lilacs databases, without restrictions on language, time, or location. Eligible studies included randomized controlled trials involving patients with mental disorders exposed to music tuned to 432 Hz or 440 Hz, assessing psychological and symptomatic outcomes. Among 2,456 records retrieved, five studies met the inclusion criteria: four used 432 Hz, and one compared 432 Hz to 440 Hz. All reported significant improvements, particularly in reducing anxiety and stress, as well as increases in life satisfaction and productivity. Favorable effects on physiological parameters, including respiratory rate and systolic blood pressure, were also observed. Although results suggest that 432 Hz music may offer therapeutic benefits compared to 440 Hz, the limited number of robust trials underscores the need for further high-quality research to validate these findings.