Kathy Moreland Layte, RN, MScN, HTCP/I
There is a growing amount of research literature which validates and supports the impact of Healing Touch and other biofield therapies such as Reiki and QiGong. This information demonstrates the outcomes related to the regulation of the immune system and the relaxation response.
Although the clinical trial (quantitative research) evidence is in its preliminary state, there are numerous pilot studies and clinical trials reporting the effects of those receiving Healing Touch and how it impacts the cellular function of the body (Jain & Mills, 2010; Anderson & Taylor, 2011).
Immunological effects of Healing Touch therapy has been measured by immunoglobulins and killer T cells which are known immune components
that regulate stress response. This immunology showed the ability of the immune system to fight cancer cells (Lutgendorf (2010), Jain & Mills (2011) and Maville, Bowen & Benham (2008).
Through these integrated interactions of the immunologic, neurologic and psychologic systems (psychoneuroimmunological processes), it can
be suggested that cellular change in the body becomes possible. The bodyâs natural cleansing improves and the systems are regulated, as demonstrated in this model.
Cook, C.A., Guerrerio, J.F., & Slater, V.E. (2004). Healing Touch and quality of life in women receiving radiation treatment for cancer: A randomized controlled trial. Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine, 10(3), 34-41.
Dean, K.L. (2003). Understanding the human biofield and its role in whole person healing. Alternative and Complementary Therapies, 9, 3, 142-5.
Dowd, T., Kolcaba, K., Steiner, R., Fashinpaur, D. (2007). Comparison of a Healing Touch, Coaching, and a Combined Intervention on Comfort and Stress in Younger College Students. Holistic Nursing Practice,
Esch, T., Fricchione, G.L. & Stefano, G.B. (2003). The therapeutic use of the relaxation response in stress related diseases. Medical Science Monitor, 9, 2, RA23-34
Diaz-Rodriguex, L., Arroyo-Morales, M., Fenandez-de-las-Penas, C., Garcia-Lafuente, F., Garcia-Royo, C. & Tomas-Rojas, I. (2011). Immediate effects of reiki on heart rate variability, cortisol levels, and body temperature in heath care professionals with burnout. Biological Research for Nursing, 13, 4, 376-382.
Jain, S. & Mills, P. (2010). Biofield therapies; helpful or hype? A best evidence synthesis,17, 1, 1-16.
Anderson, J.G. & Taylor, A.G. (2011). Effects of Healing Touch in clinical practice: A systematic review of randomized clinical trials. Journal of Holistic Nursing, 2 (1)
Jain, S. & Mills, P. (2011). The effectiveness of biofield therapies for decreasing symptoms of pain, anxiety, and improving Qol. International Journal of behavioural medicine, 17, 1-16.
Benor, D. J. (2004) Consciousness, Bioenergy and Healing: Self Healing and Energy Medicine. Medford, N.J.: Wholistic Healing Publications
Krucoff, M. W., Crater, S. W., Green, C. L., Maas, A. C.,Seskevich, J. E., & Lane, J. D. (2001). Integrative noetic