Clinical Research on Biofield Therapies
An open-access scoping review published in the Journal of Integrative and Complementary Medicine analyzed 353 human trials evaluating biofield therapies such as Reiki, Healing Touch, and Qigong.
Nearly 3 out of 4 studies reviewed showed positive or mixed benefits from biofield therapies, with only 1% showing negative results
Why Biofield Science Matters
Biofield therapies such as Reiki, Healing Touch, and Qigong are increasingly studied in clinical research.
Evidence suggests they help with:
• Stress reduction
• Pain relief
• Emotional wellbeing
• Improved quality of life
These practices are non-invasive, safe, and supportive alongside conventional care.

What the Research Shows
A review of 353 human clinical studies found:
- ✅ 49% Positive outcomes
- ⚖️ 27% Mixed results
- ➖ 20% Not significant
- ❌ 1% Negative
This growing body of evidence highlights the measurable benefits of biofield therapies for mind, body, and spirit.
Additional Research
Stress Reduction and Relaxation
The effects of Reiki therapy on pain and anxiety in patients attending a day oncology and infusion services unit. American Journal of Hospice and Palliative Medicine, 29(4), 290-294.
Reiki improves heart rate homeostasis in laboratory rats. Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 14(4), 417-422.
Pain Management
The effect of Reiki on pain and anxiety in women with abdominal hysterectomies: A quasi-experimental pilot study. Holistic Nursing Practice, 20(6), 263-272.
Effects of Reiki on pain and selected affective and personality variables of chronically ill patients. Subtle Energies & Energy Medicine Journal Archives, 9(1).
Anxiety Reduction
A randomised controlled single-blind trial of the efficacy of Reiki at benefiting mood and well-being. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 7(2), 189-193.
Effect of Reiki therapy on pain and anxiety in adults: an in-depth literature review of randomized trials with effect size calculations. Pain Management Nursing, 15(4), 897-908.
Improved Mood and Well-being
Long-term effects of energetic healing on symptoms of depression and stress. Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine, 10(3), 42-48.
Reiki as a Strategy for Reducing Burnout in Community Mental Health Clinicians. Union Institute and University ProQuest Dissertations & Theses, 2015. 3681812.
Enhanced Healing and Recovery
Using Reiki to decrease memory and behavior problems in mild cognitive impairment and mild Alzheimer’s disease. Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 12(9), 911-913.
Autonomic nervous system changes during Reiki treatment: A preliminary study. Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 10(6), 1077-1081.
Reduction of Depression Symptoms
Does Reiki Benefit Mental Health Symptoms Above Placebo? Front Psychol. 2022; 13: 897312.
Long-term effects of energetic healing on symptoms of psychological depression and self-perceived stress. Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine, 10(3), 42-48.
Enhanced Quality of Life
Effects of Reiki on anxiety, depression, pain, and physiologic measures in community-dwelling older adults. Research in Gerontological Nursing, 3(3), 187-199.
Pilot crossover trial of Reiki versus rest for treating cancer-related fatigue. Integrative Cancer Therapies, 6(1), 25-35.
Biofield therapies are complementary practices and are not a substitute for medical care. Individuals should consult licensed healthcare providers regarding medical conditions.
Begin your healing journey today!
Explore Biofield Transformations’ energy healing offerings and take the first step toward balance, clarity, and transformation.
