Many cultures use putative energy fields, also known as biofields, for alternative medicine therapies such as acupuncture. The theory is that a subtle energy form, or life force, infuses people. This energy has varying names depending on the culture involved. It is called qi in traditional Chinese medicine and ki by the Japanese, who utilize the Kampo system. In Ayurvedic medicine it's known as doshas. Other names include homeopathic resonance, mana, prana, etheric energy, fohat, orgone and odic force, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine.
Controversial
The methods for using energy fields as medicine are among the most controversial alternative medicine practices in the United States. There is no convincing documented proof of the therapeutic effects of manipulating energy fields, according to NCCAM. One factor is the technical issues related to existing technologies can make measuring and interpreting the body's energy fields difficult.
Biofields
Energy medicine practitioners believe that illness is the result of biofield disturbances. Traditional Chinese medicine, for example, calls for restoring the flow of qi to reinstate good health. Asian practitioners have utilized this theory for more than 2,000 years.
Practices
Some practices that utilize biofieds are Japanese Reiki and Johrei, Chinese Qi gong, prayer for health purposes and healing touch, in which a therapist identifies and corrects energy imbalances by passing his hands over patients.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is the most popular therapy that promotes flow of qi along the body's meridians. This practice has been extensively studied. According to NCCAM it has been proven effective in treating some conditions, especially those involving pain. Acupuncture's specific mechanism remains a scientific mystery, however, and studies have not validated qi's existence.
Treatment Combinations
Systems that use biofields often do so in combination with other treatments. Traditional Chinese medicine, for example, recommends combinations of treatments. A patient combines acupuncture, qi gong and herbs. Ayurvedic medicine combines many approaches including yoga, herbal medicine and meditation to restore "vital energy."
Popularity
Energy medicine is becoming more popular in the United States. For example, the 2007 National Health Interview Survey indicates that an estimated 3.1 million adults use acupuncture. A 2002 survey by the National Center for Health Statistics found that 1 percent of participants used Reiki, 0.5 percent utilized qi gong, 4.6 percent participated in some kind of healing ritual and some 30 percent asked others to pray for their health. Also, medical and educational institutions are beginning to study the subject more, according to NCCAM.
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