DRUGS AND SUPPLEMENTS

Crystal therapy, Electrocrystal therapy

March 22, 2017

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Crystal therapy, Electrocrystal therapy

Natural Standard Bottom Line Monograph, Copyright © 2013 (www.naturalstandard.com). Commercial distribution prohibited. This monograph is intended for informational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. You should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about therapies and/or health conditions.

While some complementary and alternative techniques have been studied scientifically, high-quality data regarding safety, effectiveness, and mechanism of action are limited or controversial for most therapies. Whenever possible, it is recommended that practitioners be licensed by a recognized professional organization that adheres to clearly published standards. In addition, before starting a new technique or engaging a practitioner, it is recommended that patients speak with their primary healthcare provider(s). Potential benefits, risks (including financial costs), and alternatives should be carefully considered. The below monograph is designed to provide historical background and an overview of clinically-oriented research, and neither advocates for or against the use of a particular therapy.

Related Terms

  • Chakra therapy, charmstone, clear quartz therapy, crystal healing, electrocrystal therapy, gem therapy, liquid crystal glasses, white quartz therapy.

Background

  • Crystal therapy, also called crystal healing or gem therapy, uses crystals, each selected for specific characteristics or wavelengths, to treat a wide range of mental and physical conditions. This approach is based on the belief that the body has an energy field that can be influenced by the placement of crystals on specific body points.

  • The British inventor Harry Oldfield developed electrocrystal therapy was developed in the 1980s. This technique involves the use of an electromagnetic generator attached to conducting tubes filled with specific types of crystals. These tubes are applied to the body, and energy is transmitted through them. It is proposed that various types of crystals in these tubes have different effects on the body. An electronic device may also be used as a possible way to detect areas of energy imbalance of the body. These areas may then be treated with electrocrystal therapy.

  • There is currently not enough evidence in humans to support the use of crystal therapy for any health problem.

Theory

  • Crystal therapy is proposed to assist with physical, emotional, and spiritual balance and healing. According to Tantric texts, there are a number of points in the body from which psychic forces flow. These are called "chakra points." Different hypotheses exist on the actual number (seven is the most common) and location of points. The term chakra comes from the Sanskrit cakram, meaning wheel or circle.

  • In crystal therapy, crystals of appropriate color and energy may be placed at specific chakra points on the body with the aim to energize and cleanse. Electrocrystal therapy is proposed to work by rebalancing the energy field to promote better health.

Scientific Evidence

Uses

These uses have been tested in humans or animals. Safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider.

Grade*

No available studies qualify for inclusion in the evidence table.

*Key to grades:A: Strong scientific evidence for this use; B: Good scientific evidence for this use; C: Unclear scientific evidence for this use; D: Fair scientific evidence against this use (it may not work); F: Strong scientific evidence against this use (it likely does not work).

Tradition/Theory

The below uses are based on tradition or scientific theories. They often have not been thoroughly tested in humans, and safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious and should be evaluated by a qualified health care professional.

  • Vision problems (amblyopia).

Safety

Many complementary techniques are practiced by healthcare professionals with formal training, in accordance with the standards of national organizations. However, this is not universally the case, and adverse effects are possible. Due to limited research, in some cases only limited safety information is available.

  • Crystal therapy is generally believed to be safe for most people. Electrocrystal therapy uses electromagnetic fields and electrical equipment. Safety has not been thoroughly studied, and therefore, the risks are unclear.

  • Because these techniques are not well researched, neither should be used as the sole treatment (in place of more proven approaches) of a severe illness. Do not delay consultation with an appropriate healthcare provider for a potentially serious symptom or condition.

  • There is not enough evidence to support the use of this therapy during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Author Information

  • This information is based on a systematic review of scientific literature edited and peer-reviewed by contributors to the Natural Standard Research Collaboration (www.naturalstandard.com).

References

Natural Standard developed the above evidence-based information based on a thorough systematic review of the available scientific articles. For comprehensive information about alternative and complementary therapies on the professional level, go to www.naturalstandard.com. Selected references are listed below.

  1. Allan G. The crystal age and healing crystals. Health Consciousness 1988;9(2):29-31.

  2. BenEzra O, Herzog R, Cohen E, et al. Liquid crystal glasses: feasibility and safety of a new modality for treating amblyopia. Arch Ophthalmol. 2007;125(4):580-581. View Abstract

  3. Clarke DB, Doel MA, Segrott J. No alternative? The regulation and professionalization of complementary and alternative medicine in the United Kingdom. Health Place. 2004;10(4):329-338. View Abstract

  4. Harold E. Crystal healing: a practical guide to healing with quartz crystal. Wellingborough: Aquarian 1991;1766.

  5. Olfield H, Coghill R. The dark side of the brain: major discoveries in the use of Kirlian photography and electrocrystal therapy. Shaftesbury: Element Books 1988;264.

  6. Smyth A. Crystal therapy. Here's Health 1988;33(386):38-39.

Copyright © 2013 Natural Standard (www.naturalstandard.com)

The information in this monograph is intended for informational purposes only, and is meant to help users better understand health concerns. Information is based on review of scientific research data, historical practice patterns, and clinical experience. This information should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Users should consult with a qualified healthcare provider for specific questions regarding therapies, diagnosis and/or health conditions, prior to making therapeutic decisions.

Updated:  

March 22, 2017