Reiki Energy Healing

Reiki is an “energy healing” method based on the idea that the body is surrounded by an energy field that cannot be measured by traditional scientific methods. This energy field or force is called ki in Japan, chi or qi in China, and prana in India. Reiki healers claim to promote healing by fixing or balancing the field, often by lightly touching or hovering their hands above the patient’s body in a series of positions.

But is there anything to Reiki? No, sez doctor-run medical watchdog group Quackwatch:

Reiki has no substantiated health value and lacks a scientifically plausible rationale. Science-based healthcare settings should not tolerate its use, and scarce government research dollars should not be used to study it further.

A study by the University of Arizona determined that:

Practicing Reiki does not appear to routinely produce high-intensity electromagnetic fields from the heart or hands.

Additionally, the The Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) is a self-regulatory body that monitors advertising in the United Kingdom. has objected to three Reiki healers advertising their services as legitimate medical treatments.

Patients and consumers looking for medical help should be wary of Reiki healers and their claims, which have not been substantiated by science.