Prayer
Content provided by the Faculty of the Harvard Medical School
Prayer
Before engaging in any complementary medical technique, you should be aware that many of these techniques have not been evaluated in scientific studies. Often, only limited information is available about their safety and effectiveness. Each state and each discipline has its own rules about whether practitioners are required to be professionally licensed. If you plan to visit a practitioner, it is recommended that you choose one who is licensed by a recognized national organization and who abides by the organization's standards. It is always best to speak with your primary health care provider before starting any new therapeutic technique.
Resources
Natural Standard: An organization that produces scientifically based reviews of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) topics
National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM): A division of the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services dedicated to research
Selected Scientific Studies: Prayer
Natural Standard reviewed more than 140 articles to prepare the professional monograph from which this version was created.
Some of the more recent English-language studies are listed below:
Astin JA, Harkness E, Ernst E. The efficacy of "distant healing": a systematic review of randomized trials. Ann Intern Med 2000;132(11):903-910.
Aviles JM, Whelan SE, Hernke DA, et al. Intercessory prayer and cardiovascular disease progression in a coronary care unit population: a randomized controlled trial. Mayo Clin Proc 2001;76(12):1192-1198.
Galishoff ML. God, prayer, and coronary care unit outcomes: faith vs works? Arch Intern Med 2000;160(12):1877-1878.
Gundersen L. Faith and healing. Ann Intern Med 2000; 132(2):169-172.
Hamm RM. No effect of intercessory prayer has been proven. Arch Intern Med 2000;160(12):1872-1873.
Harris WS, Gowda M, Kolb JW, et al. God, prayer, and coronary care unit outcomes: faith vs works? Arch Intern Med 2000;160(12):1877-1878.
Hoover DR, Margolick JB. Questions on the design and findings of a randomized, controlled trial of the effects of remote, intercessory prayer on outcomes in patients admitted to the coronary care unit. Arch Intern Med 2000;160(12):1875-1876.
Karis R, Karis D. Intercessory prayer. Arch Intern Med 2000;160(12):1870-1878.
Leibovici L. Effects of remote, retroactive intercessory prayer on outcomes in patients with bloodstream infection: randomised controlled trial. Br Med J 2001;323(7327):1450-1451.
Matthews DA, Marlowe SM, MacNutt FS. Effects of intercessory prayer on patients with rheumatoid arthritis. South Med J 2000;93(12):1177-1186.
Matthews WJ, et al. The effects of intercessory prayer, positive visualization, and expectancy on the well-being of kidney dialysis patients. J Am Med Assoc 2001;2376.
Roberts L, Ahmed I, Hall S. Intercessory prayer for the alleviation of ill health (Cochrane Review). The Cochrane Library (Oxford: Update Software), 2002.
Rosner F. Therapeutic efficacy of prayer. Arch Intern Med 2000;160(12):1875-1878.
Rossiter-Thornton JF. Prayer in psychotherapy. Altern Ther Health Med 2000;6(1): 125-128.
Sloan RP, Bagiella E, VandeCreek L, et al. Should physicians prescribe religious activities? N Engl J Med 2000;342(25):1913-1916.
Smith JG, Fisher R. The effect of remote intercessory prayer on clinical outcomes. Arch Intern Med 2000;160(12):1876-1878.
Wiesendanger H, Werthmuller L, Reuter K, et al. Chronically ill patients treated by spiritual healing improve in quality of life: results of a randomized waiting-list controlled study. J Altern Complement Med 2001;7(1):45-51.
Summary
Prayer has been suggested for many health conditions. Available scientific studies have not proven prayer to be more safe or effective than other treatments. It is not recommended that you rely on prayer alone to treat potentially dangerous medical conditions, although prayer may be used in addition to standard medical care. Speak with your health care provider if you are considering prayer therapy.
The information in this monograph was prepared by the professional staff at Natural Standard, based on thorough systematic review of scientific evidence. The material was reviewed by the Faculty of the Harvard Medical School with final editing approved by Natural Standard.
Potential Dangers
Prayer is not recommended as the sole treatment for potentially severe medical conditions, and it should not delay the time it takes to consult with a qualified health care provider. Sometimes, religious beliefs conflict with standard medical approaches, and therefore open communication between patients and caregivers is encouraged.
Unproven Uses
Prayer has been suggested for many other uses, based on tradition or on scientific theories. However, these uses have not been thoroughly studied in humans, and there is limited scientific evidence about safety or effectiveness. Some of these suggested uses are for conditions that are potentially life-threatening. Consult with a health care provider before using prayer for any use.
Angioplasty Anxiety Cystic fibrosis Depression Gastrointestinal disorders Immune system stimulation Kidney disease Longevity Lung disease Melanoma | Meningitis Mental health Neurologic disorders Pain Polio Respiratory disease Self-esteem Spinal cord injury Stroke Wound healing |
Evidence
Scientists have studied prayer for the following health problems:
Improved health (general) Numerous studies have evaluated the effects of intercessory prayer on illness severity, death and well-being of patients or loved ones. Results are variable, with some studies reporting benefits of prayer on severity or length of illness, and others suggesting no effects. Several studies in which patients knew that prayers were being said on their behalf report benefits. However, in these cases, it is not clear that prayer is superior to other forms of compassionate interaction. Most research has not been well designed or reported. Additional studies are needed, with clear descriptions of prayer techniques and well-defined health outcomes. |
Critical illness Several studies have measured the effects of intercessory prayer on behalf of patients in intensive care units with severe heart disease or infections. Some of this research suggests positive results, but most studies are poorly designed and reported. Further research is needed to make a firm conclusion. |
Quality of life in chronically ill patients Improved quality of life has been measured in patients who have others pray for their healing. Results are not conclusive, and better-quality research is necessary to make a firm conclusion. |
Heart disease, heart attack Studies of intercessory prayer for heart disease patients report variable effects on illness severity, complications during hospitalization and death rates. Well-designed research is needed to draw firm conclusions. |
Cancer Early studies of cancer patients report that intercessory prayer has variable effects on disease progression or death rates. High-quality research is needed to make a recommendation. |
AIDS/HIV Because of poor study design, data on the role of prayer in AIDS-related illnesses and hospitalizations cannot be considered conclusive. |
Rheumatoid arthritis Early research suggests that in-person intercessory prayer may reduce pain, fatigue, tenderness, swelling, and weakness when used in addition to standard medical care. Better-quality research is necessary to make a recommendation. |
Burn patients Limited research in burn patients reports improved outcomes associated with prayer. However, these results cannot be considered conclusive because of poor study design. |
Birth complications Initial studies report fewer birth complications in people who are religious or who pray. Well-designed studies are needed to support these results. |
Blood pressure control Intercessory prayer shows no effects on blood pressure in early studies. Further research may provide better information. |
Alcohol or drug dependency Intercessory prayer shows no effects on alcohol or drug dependency. Further research may provide better information. |
Theory
It has been suggested that patients who pray for themselves or are aware that others are praying for them may develop stronger coping skills and decreased anxiety, which may improve health. Some people believe that prayer or positive thinking has beneficial effects on the immune, central nervous, cardiovascular or hormonal system.
Studies of the effects of intercessory prayer on health provide conflicting results. Most prayer research is not well designed or reported. Prayer is difficult to study for several reasons:
There are many types of prayers and religions.
Intercessors do not always know patients in studies and, therefore, the prayers are often nonspecific.
Controlled studies with "placebo prayer" are challenging.
There is no widespread agreement on how to best measure outcomes.
Background
Prayer may be defined as the act of asking for something while aiming to connect with God or another object of worship. Praying for the sick or dying has been a common practice throughout history. Individuals or groups may practice prayer with or without the framework of an organized religion.
People may pray for themselves or for others. "Intercessory prayer" refers to prayers said on behalf of people who are ill or in need. Intercessors may have specific objectives or may wish for general well-being or improved health. The person being prayed for may be aware or unaware of the process. In some cases, prayers involve direct content using the hands. Intercessory prayer may also be performed from a distance.
Clergy, chaplains and pastoral counselors are trained by their respective institutions to address the spiritual and emotional needs of physically and mentally ill patients, their families and loved ones.
Resources
Natural Standard: An organization that produces scientifically based reviews of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) topics
National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM): A division of the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services dedicated to research
Selected Scientific Studies: Prayer
Natural Standard reviewed more than 140 articles to prepare the professional monograph from which this version was created.
Some of the more recent English-language studies are listed below:
Astin JA, Harkness E, Ernst E. The efficacy of "distant healing": a systematic review of randomized trials. Ann Intern Med 2000;132(11):903-910.
Aviles JM, Whelan SE, Hernke DA, et al. Intercessory prayer and cardiovascular disease progression in a coronary care unit population: a randomized controlled trial. Mayo Clin Proc 2001;76(12):1192-1198.
Galishoff ML. God, prayer, and coronary care unit outcomes: faith vs works? Arch Intern Med 2000;160(12):1877-1878.
Gundersen L. Faith and healing. Ann Intern Med 2000; 132(2):169-172.
Hamm RM. No effect of intercessory prayer has been proven. Arch Intern Med 2000;160(12):1872-1873.
Harris WS, Gowda M, Kolb JW, et al. God, prayer, and coronary care unit outcomes: faith vs works? Arch Intern Med 2000;160(12):1877-1878.
Hoover DR, Margolick JB. Questions on the design and findings of a randomized, controlled trial of the effects of remote, intercessory prayer on outcomes in patients admitted to the coronary care unit. Arch Intern Med 2000;160(12):1875-1876.
Karis R, Karis D. Intercessory prayer. Arch Intern Med 2000;160(12):1870-1878.
Leibovici L. Effects of remote, retroactive intercessory prayer on outcomes in patients with bloodstream infection: randomised controlled trial. Br Med J 2001;323(7327):1450-1451.
Matthews DA, Marlowe SM, MacNutt FS. Effects of intercessory prayer on patients with rheumatoid arthritis. South Med J 2000;93(12):1177-1186.
Matthews WJ, et al. The effects of intercessory prayer, positive visualization, and expectancy on the well-being of kidney dialysis patients. J Am Med Assoc 2001;2376.
Roberts L, Ahmed I, Hall S. Intercessory prayer for the alleviation of ill health (Cochrane Review). The Cochrane Library (Oxford: Update Software), 2002.
Rosner F. Therapeutic efficacy of prayer. Arch Intern Med 2000;160(12):1875-1878.
Rossiter-Thornton JF. Prayer in psychotherapy. Altern Ther Health Med 2000;6(1): 125-128.
Sloan RP, Bagiella E, VandeCreek L, et al. Should physicians prescribe religious activities? N Engl J Med 2000;342(25):1913-1916.
Smith JG, Fisher R. The effect of remote intercessory prayer on clinical outcomes. Arch Intern Med 2000;160(12):1876-1878.
Wiesendanger H, Werthmuller L, Reuter K, et al. Chronically ill patients treated by spiritual healing improve in quality of life: results of a randomized waiting-list controlled study. J Altern Complement Med 2001;7(1):45-51.
Summary
Prayer has been suggested for many health conditions. Available scientific studies have not proven prayer to be more safe or effective than other treatments. It is not recommended that you rely on prayer alone to treat potentially dangerous medical conditions, although prayer may be used in addition to standard medical care. Speak with your health care provider if you are considering prayer therapy.
The information in this monograph was prepared by the professional staff at Natural Standard, based on thorough systematic review of scientific evidence. The material was reviewed by the Faculty of the Harvard Medical School with final editing approved by Natural Standard.
Potential Dangers
Prayer is not recommended as the sole treatment for potentially severe medical conditions, and it should not delay the time it takes to consult with a qualified health care provider. Sometimes, religious beliefs conflict with standard medical approaches, and therefore open communication between patients and caregivers is encouraged.
Unproven Uses
Prayer has been suggested for many other uses, based on tradition or on scientific theories. However, these uses have not been thoroughly studied in humans, and there is limited scientific evidence about safety or effectiveness. Some of these suggested uses are for conditions that are potentially life-threatening. Consult with a health care provider before using prayer for any use.
Angioplasty Anxiety Cystic fibrosis Depression Gastrointestinal disorders Immune system stimulation Kidney disease Longevity Lung disease Melanoma | Meningitis Mental health Neurologic disorders Pain Polio Respiratory disease Self-esteem Spinal cord injury Stroke Wound healing |
Evidence
Scientists have studied prayer for the following health problems:
Improved health (general) Numerous studies have evaluated the effects of intercessory prayer on illness severity, death and well-being of patients or loved ones. Results are variable, with some studies reporting benefits of prayer on severity or length of illness, and others suggesting no effects. Several studies in which patients knew that prayers were being said on their behalf report benefits. However, in these cases, it is not clear that prayer is superior to other forms of compassionate interaction. Most research has not been well designed or reported. Additional studies are needed, with clear descriptions of prayer techniques and well-defined health outcomes. |
Critical illness Several studies have measured the effects of intercessory prayer on behalf of patients in intensive care units with severe heart disease or infections. Some of this research suggests positive results, but most studies are poorly designed and reported. Further research is needed to make a firm conclusion. |
Quality of life in chronically ill patients Improved quality of life has been measured in patients who have others pray for their healing. Results are not conclusive, and better-quality research is necessary to make a firm conclusion. |
Heart disease, heart attack Studies of intercessory prayer for heart disease patients report variable effects on illness severity, complications during hospitalization and death rates. Well-designed research is needed to draw firm conclusions. |
Cancer Early studies of cancer patients report that intercessory prayer has variable effects on disease progression or death rates. High-quality research is needed to make a recommendation. |
AIDS/HIV Because of poor study design, data on the role of prayer in AIDS-related illnesses and hospitalizations cannot be considered conclusive. |
Rheumatoid arthritis Early research suggests that in-person intercessory prayer may reduce pain, fatigue, tenderness, swelling, and weakness when used in addition to standard medical care. Better-quality research is necessary to make a recommendation. |
Burn patients Limited research in burn patients reports improved outcomes associated with prayer. However, these results cannot be considered conclusive because of poor study design. |
Birth complications Initial studies report fewer birth complications in people who are religious or who pray. Well-designed studies are needed to support these results. |
Blood pressure control Intercessory prayer shows no effects on blood pressure in early studies. Further research may provide better information. |
Alcohol or drug dependency Intercessory prayer shows no effects on alcohol or drug dependency. Further research may provide better information. |
Theory
It has been suggested that patients who pray for themselves or are aware that others are praying for them may develop stronger coping skills and decreased anxiety, which may improve health. Some people believe that prayer or positive thinking has beneficial effects on the immune, central nervous, cardiovascular or hormonal system.
Studies of the effects of intercessory prayer on health provide conflicting results. Most prayer research is not well designed or reported. Prayer is difficult to study for several reasons:
There are many types of prayers and religions.
Intercessors do not always know patients in studies and, therefore, the prayers are often nonspecific.
Controlled studies with "placebo prayer" are challenging.
There is no widespread agreement on how to best measure outcomes.
Resources
Natural Standard: An organization that produces scientifically based reviews of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) topics
National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM): A division of the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services dedicated to research
Selected Scientific Studies: Prayer
Natural Standard reviewed more than 140 articles to prepare the professional monograph from which this version was created.
Some of the more recent English-language studies are listed below:
Astin JA, Harkness E, Ernst E. The efficacy of "distant healing": a systematic review of randomized trials. Ann Intern Med 2000;132(11):903-910.
Aviles JM, Whelan SE, Hernke DA, et al. Intercessory prayer and cardiovascular disease progression in a coronary care unit population: a randomized controlled trial. Mayo Clin Proc 2001;76(12):1192-1198.
Galishoff ML. God, prayer, and coronary care unit outcomes: faith vs works? Arch Intern Med 2000;160(12):1877-1878.
Gundersen L. Faith and healing. Ann Intern Med 2000; 132(2):169-172.
Hamm RM. No effect of intercessory prayer has been proven. Arch Intern Med 2000;160(12):1872-1873.
Harris WS, Gowda M, Kolb JW, et al. God, prayer, and coronary care unit outcomes: faith vs works? Arch Intern Med 2000;160(12):1877-1878.
Hoover DR, Margolick JB. Questions on the design and findings of a randomized, controlled trial of the effects of remote, intercessory prayer on outcomes in patients admitted to the coronary care unit. Arch Intern Med 2000;160(12):1875-1876.
Karis R, Karis D. Intercessory prayer. Arch Intern Med 2000;160(12):1870-1878.
Leibovici L. Effects of remote, retroactive intercessory prayer on outcomes in patients with bloodstream infection: randomised controlled trial. Br Med J 2001;323(7327):1450-1451.
Matthews DA, Marlowe SM, MacNutt FS. Effects of intercessory prayer on patients with rheumatoid arthritis. South Med J 2000;93(12):1177-1186.
Matthews WJ, et al. The effects of intercessory prayer, positive visualization, and expectancy on the well-being of kidney dialysis patients. J Am Med Assoc 2001;2376.
Roberts L, Ahmed I, Hall S. Intercessory prayer for the alleviation of ill health (Cochrane Review). The Cochrane Library (Oxford: Update Software), 2002.
Rosner F. Therapeutic efficacy of prayer. Arch Intern Med 2000;160(12):1875-1878.
Rossiter-Thornton JF. Prayer in psychotherapy. Altern Ther Health Med 2000;6(1): 125-128.
Sloan RP, Bagiella E, VandeCreek L, et al. Should physicians prescribe religious activities? N Engl J Med 2000;342(25):1913-1916.
Smith JG, Fisher R. The effect of remote intercessory prayer on clinical outcomes. Arch Intern Med 2000;160(12):1876-1878.
Wiesendanger H, Werthmuller L, Reuter K, et al. Chronically ill patients treated by spiritual healing improve in quality of life: results of a randomized waiting-list controlled study. J Altern Complement Med 2001;7(1):45-51.
Summary
Prayer has been suggested for many health conditions. Available scientific studies have not proven prayer to be more safe or effective than other treatments. It is not recommended that you rely on prayer alone to treat potentially dangerous medical conditions, although prayer may be used in addition to standard medical care. Speak with your health care provider if you are considering prayer therapy.
The information in this monograph was prepared by the professional staff at Natural Standard, based on thorough systematic review of scientific evidence. The material was reviewed by the Faculty of the Harvard Medical School with final editing approved by Natural Standard.
Potential Dangers
Prayer is not recommended as the sole treatment for potentially severe medical conditions, and it should not delay the time it takes to consult with a qualified health care provider. Sometimes, religious beliefs conflict with standard medical approaches, and therefore open communication between patients and caregivers is encouraged.
Unproven Uses
Prayer has been suggested for many other uses, based on tradition or on scientific theories. However, these uses have not been thoroughly studied in humans, and there is limited scientific evidence about safety or effectiveness. Some of these suggested uses are for conditions that are potentially life-threatening. Consult with a health care provider before using prayer for any use.
Angioplasty Anxiety Cystic fibrosis Depression Gastrointestinal disorders Immune system stimulation Kidney disease Longevity Lung disease Melanoma | Meningitis Mental health Neurologic disorders Pain Polio Respiratory disease Self-esteem Spinal cord injury Stroke Wound healing |
Evidence
Scientists have studied prayer for the following health problems:
Improved health (general) Numerous studies have evaluated the effects of intercessory prayer on illness severity, death and well-being of patients or loved ones. Results are variable, with some studies reporting benefits of prayer on severity or length of illness, and others suggesting no effects. Several studies in which patients knew that prayers were being said on their behalf report benefits. However, in these cases, it is not clear that prayer is superior to other forms of compassionate interaction. Most research has not been well designed or reported. Additional studies are needed, with clear descriptions of prayer techniques and well-defined health outcomes. |
Critical illness Several studies have measured the effects of intercessory prayer on behalf of patients in intensive care units with severe heart disease or infections. Some of this research suggests positive results, but most studies are poorly designed and reported. Further research is needed to make a firm conclusion. |
Quality of life in chronically ill patients Improved quality of life has been measured in patients who have others pray for their healing. Results are not conclusive, and better-quality research is necessary to make a firm conclusion. |
Heart disease, heart attack Studies of intercessory prayer for heart disease patients report variable effects on illness severity, complications during hospitalization and death rates. Well-designed research is needed to draw firm conclusions. |
Cancer Early studies of cancer patients report that intercessory prayer has variable effects on disease progression or death rates. High-quality research is needed to make a recommendation. |
AIDS/HIV Because of poor study design, data on the role of prayer in AIDS-related illnesses and hospitalizations cannot be considered conclusive. |
Rheumatoid arthritis Early research suggests that in-person intercessory prayer may reduce pain, fatigue, tenderness, swelling, and weakness when used in addition to standard medical care. Better-quality research is necessary to make a recommendation. |
Burn patients Limited research in burn patients reports improved outcomes associated with prayer. However, these results cannot be considered conclusive because of poor study design. |
Birth complications Initial studies report fewer birth complications in people who are religious or who pray. Well-designed studies are needed to support these results. |
Blood pressure control Intercessory prayer shows no effects on blood pressure in early studies. Further research may provide better information. |
Alcohol or drug dependency Intercessory prayer shows no effects on alcohol or drug dependency. Further research may provide better information. |
Resources
Natural Standard: An organization that produces scientifically based reviews of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) topics
National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM): A division of the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services dedicated to research
Selected Scientific Studies: Prayer
Natural Standard reviewed more than 140 articles to prepare the professional monograph from which this version was created.
Some of the more recent English-language studies are listed below:
Astin JA, Harkness E, Ernst E. The efficacy of "distant healing": a systematic review of randomized trials. Ann Intern Med 2000;132(11):903-910.
Aviles JM, Whelan SE, Hernke DA, et al. Intercessory prayer and cardiovascular disease progression in a coronary care unit population: a randomized controlled trial. Mayo Clin Proc 2001;76(12):1192-1198.
Galishoff ML. God, prayer, and coronary care unit outcomes: faith vs works? Arch Intern Med 2000;160(12):1877-1878.
Gundersen L. Faith and healing. Ann Intern Med 2000; 132(2):169-172.
Hamm RM. No effect of intercessory prayer has been proven. Arch Intern Med 2000;160(12):1872-1873.
Harris WS, Gowda M, Kolb JW, et al. God, prayer, and coronary care unit outcomes: faith vs works? Arch Intern Med 2000;160(12):1877-1878.
Hoover DR, Margolick JB. Questions on the design and findings of a randomized, controlled trial of the effects of remote, intercessory prayer on outcomes in patients admitted to the coronary care unit. Arch Intern Med 2000;160(12):1875-1876.
Karis R, Karis D. Intercessory prayer. Arch Intern Med 2000;160(12):1870-1878.
Leibovici L. Effects of remote, retroactive intercessory prayer on outcomes in patients with bloodstream infection: randomised controlled trial. Br Med J 2001;323(7327):1450-1451.
Matthews DA, Marlowe SM, MacNutt FS. Effects of intercessory prayer on patients with rheumatoid arthritis. South Med J 2000;93(12):1177-1186.
Matthews WJ, et al. The effects of intercessory prayer, positive visualization, and expectancy on the well-being of kidney dialysis patients. J Am Med Assoc 2001;2376.
Roberts L, Ahmed I, Hall S. Intercessory prayer for the alleviation of ill health (Cochrane Review). The Cochrane Library (Oxford: Update Software), 2002.
Rosner F. Therapeutic efficacy of prayer. Arch Intern Med 2000;160(12):1875-1878.
Rossiter-Thornton JF. Prayer in psychotherapy. Altern Ther Health Med 2000;6(1): 125-128.
Sloan RP, Bagiella E, VandeCreek L, et al. Should physicians prescribe religious activities? N Engl J Med 2000;342(25):1913-1916.
Smith JG, Fisher R. The effect of remote intercessory prayer on clinical outcomes. Arch Intern Med 2000;160(12):1876-1878.
Wiesendanger H, Werthmuller L, Reuter K, et al. Chronically ill patients treated by spiritual healing improve in quality of life: results of a randomized waiting-list controlled study. J Altern Complement Med 2001;7(1):45-51.
Summary
Prayer has been suggested for many health conditions. Available scientific studies have not proven prayer to be more safe or effective than other treatments. It is not recommended that you rely on prayer alone to treat potentially dangerous medical conditions, although prayer may be used in addition to standard medical care. Speak with your health care provider if you are considering prayer therapy.
The information in this monograph was prepared by the professional staff at Natural Standard, based on thorough systematic review of scientific evidence. The material was reviewed by the Faculty of the Harvard Medical School with final editing approved by Natural Standard.
Potential Dangers
Prayer is not recommended as the sole treatment for potentially severe medical conditions, and it should not delay the time it takes to consult with a qualified health care provider. Sometimes, religious beliefs conflict with standard medical approaches, and therefore open communication between patients and caregivers is encouraged.
Unproven Uses
Prayer has been suggested for many other uses, based on tradition or on scientific theories. However, these uses have not been thoroughly studied in humans, and there is limited scientific evidence about safety or effectiveness. Some of these suggested uses are for conditions that are potentially life-threatening. Consult with a health care provider before using prayer for any use.
Angioplasty Anxiety Cystic fibrosis Depression Gastrointestinal disorders Immune system stimulation Kidney disease Longevity Lung disease Melanoma | Meningitis Mental health Neurologic disorders Pain Polio Respiratory disease Self-esteem Spinal cord injury Stroke Wound healing |
Resources
Natural Standard: An organization that produces scientifically based reviews of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) topics
National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM): A division of the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services dedicated to research
Selected Scientific Studies: Prayer
Natural Standard reviewed more than 140 articles to prepare the professional monograph from which this version was created.
Some of the more recent English-language studies are listed below:
Astin JA, Harkness E, Ernst E. The efficacy of "distant healing": a systematic review of randomized trials. Ann Intern Med 2000;132(11):903-910.
Aviles JM, Whelan SE, Hernke DA, et al. Intercessory prayer and cardiovascular disease progression in a coronary care unit population: a randomized controlled trial. Mayo Clin Proc 2001;76(12):1192-1198.
Galishoff ML. God, prayer, and coronary care unit outcomes: faith vs works? Arch Intern Med 2000;160(12):1877-1878.
Gundersen L. Faith and healing. Ann Intern Med 2000; 132(2):169-172.
Hamm RM. No effect of intercessory prayer has been proven. Arch Intern Med 2000;160(12):1872-1873.
Harris WS, Gowda M, Kolb JW, et al. God, prayer, and coronary care unit outcomes: faith vs works? Arch Intern Med 2000;160(12):1877-1878.
Hoover DR, Margolick JB. Questions on the design and findings of a randomized, controlled trial of the effects of remote, intercessory prayer on outcomes in patients admitted to the coronary care unit. Arch Intern Med 2000;160(12):1875-1876.
Karis R, Karis D. Intercessory prayer. Arch Intern Med 2000;160(12):1870-1878.
Leibovici L. Effects of remote, retroactive intercessory prayer on outcomes in patients with bloodstream infection: randomised controlled trial. Br Med J 2001;323(7327):1450-1451.
Matthews DA, Marlowe SM, MacNutt FS. Effects of intercessory prayer on patients with rheumatoid arthritis. South Med J 2000;93(12):1177-1186.
Matthews WJ, et al. The effects of intercessory prayer, positive visualization, and expectancy on the well-being of kidney dialysis patients. J Am Med Assoc 2001;2376.
Roberts L, Ahmed I, Hall S. Intercessory prayer for the alleviation of ill health (Cochrane Review). The Cochrane Library (Oxford: Update Software), 2002.
Rosner F. Therapeutic efficacy of prayer. Arch Intern Med 2000;160(12):1875-1878.
Rossiter-Thornton JF. Prayer in psychotherapy. Altern Ther Health Med 2000;6(1): 125-128.
Sloan RP, Bagiella E, VandeCreek L, et al. Should physicians prescribe religious activities? N Engl J Med 2000;342(25):1913-1916.
Smith JG, Fisher R. The effect of remote intercessory prayer on clinical outcomes. Arch Intern Med 2000;160(12):1876-1878.
Wiesendanger H, Werthmuller L, Reuter K, et al. Chronically ill patients treated by spiritual healing improve in quality of life: results of a randomized waiting-list controlled study. J Altern Complement Med 2001;7(1):45-51.
Summary
Prayer has been suggested for many health conditions. Available scientific studies have not proven prayer to be more safe or effective than other treatments. It is not recommended that you rely on prayer alone to treat potentially dangerous medical conditions, although prayer may be used in addition to standard medical care. Speak with your health care provider if you are considering prayer therapy.
The information in this monograph was prepared by the professional staff at Natural Standard, based on thorough systematic review of scientific evidence. The material was reviewed by the Faculty of the Harvard Medical School with final editing approved by Natural Standard.
Potential Dangers
Prayer is not recommended as the sole treatment for potentially severe medical conditions, and it should not delay the time it takes to consult with a qualified health care provider. Sometimes, religious beliefs conflict with standard medical approaches, and therefore open communication between patients and caregivers is encouraged.
Resources
Natural Standard: An organization that produces scientifically based reviews of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) topics
National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM): A division of the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services dedicated to research
Selected Scientific Studies: Prayer
Natural Standard reviewed more than 140 articles to prepare the professional monograph from which this version was created.
Some of the more recent English-language studies are listed below:
Astin JA, Harkness E, Ernst E. The efficacy of "distant healing": a systematic review of randomized trials. Ann Intern Med 2000;132(11):903-910.
Aviles JM, Whelan SE, Hernke DA, et al. Intercessory prayer and cardiovascular disease progression in a coronary care unit population: a randomized controlled trial. Mayo Clin Proc 2001;76(12):1192-1198.
Galishoff ML. God, prayer, and coronary care unit outcomes: faith vs works? Arch Intern Med 2000;160(12):1877-1878.
Gundersen L. Faith and healing. Ann Intern Med 2000; 132(2):169-172.
Hamm RM. No effect of intercessory prayer has been proven. Arch Intern Med 2000;160(12):1872-1873.
Harris WS, Gowda M, Kolb JW, et al. God, prayer, and coronary care unit outcomes: faith vs works? Arch Intern Med 2000;160(12):1877-1878.
Hoover DR, Margolick JB. Questions on the design and findings of a randomized, controlled trial of the effects of remote, intercessory prayer on outcomes in patients admitted to the coronary care unit. Arch Intern Med 2000;160(12):1875-1876.
Karis R, Karis D. Intercessory prayer. Arch Intern Med 2000;160(12):1870-1878.
Leibovici L. Effects of remote, retroactive intercessory prayer on outcomes in patients with bloodstream infection: randomised controlled trial. Br Med J 2001;323(7327):1450-1451.
Matthews DA, Marlowe SM, MacNutt FS. Effects of intercessory prayer on patients with rheumatoid arthritis. South Med J 2000;93(12):1177-1186.
Matthews WJ, et al. The effects of intercessory prayer, positive visualization, and expectancy on the well-being of kidney dialysis patients. J Am Med Assoc 2001;2376.
Roberts L, Ahmed I, Hall S. Intercessory prayer for the alleviation of ill health (Cochrane Review). The Cochrane Library (Oxford: Update Software), 2002.
Rosner F. Therapeutic efficacy of prayer. Arch Intern Med 2000;160(12):1875-1878.
Rossiter-Thornton JF. Prayer in psychotherapy. Altern Ther Health Med 2000;6(1): 125-128.
Sloan RP, Bagiella E, VandeCreek L, et al. Should physicians prescribe religious activities? N Engl J Med 2000;342(25):1913-1916.
Smith JG, Fisher R. The effect of remote intercessory prayer on clinical outcomes. Arch Intern Med 2000;160(12):1876-1878.
Wiesendanger H, Werthmuller L, Reuter K, et al. Chronically ill patients treated by spiritual healing improve in quality of life: results of a randomized waiting-list controlled study. J Altern Complement Med 2001;7(1):45-51.
Summary
Prayer has been suggested for many health conditions. Available scientific studies have not proven prayer to be more safe or effective than other treatments. It is not recommended that you rely on prayer alone to treat potentially dangerous medical conditions, although prayer may be used in addition to standard medical care. Speak with your health care provider if you are considering prayer therapy.
The information in this monograph was prepared by the professional staff at Natural Standard, based on thorough systematic review of scientific evidence. The material was reviewed by the Faculty of the Harvard Medical School with final editing approved by Natural Standard.
Resources
Natural Standard: An organization that produces scientifically based reviews of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) topics
National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM): A division of the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services dedicated to research
Selected Scientific Studies: Prayer
Natural Standard reviewed more than 140 articles to prepare the professional monograph from which this version was created.
Some of the more recent English-language studies are listed below:
Astin JA, Harkness E, Ernst E. The efficacy of "distant healing": a systematic review of randomized trials. Ann Intern Med 2000;132(11):903-910.
Aviles JM, Whelan SE, Hernke DA, et al. Intercessory prayer and cardiovascular disease progression in a coronary care unit population: a randomized controlled trial. Mayo Clin Proc 2001;76(12):1192-1198.
Galishoff ML. God, prayer, and coronary care unit outcomes: faith vs works? Arch Intern Med 2000;160(12):1877-1878.
Gundersen L. Faith and healing. Ann Intern Med 2000; 132(2):169-172.
Hamm RM. No effect of intercessory prayer has been proven. Arch Intern Med 2000;160(12):1872-1873.
Harris WS, Gowda M, Kolb JW, et al. God, prayer, and coronary care unit outcomes: faith vs works? Arch Intern Med 2000;160(12):1877-1878.
Hoover DR, Margolick JB. Questions on the design and findings of a randomized, controlled trial of the effects of remote, intercessory prayer on outcomes in patients admitted to the coronary care unit. Arch Intern Med 2000;160(12):1875-1876.
Karis R, Karis D. Intercessory prayer. Arch Intern Med 2000;160(12):1870-1878.
Leibovici L. Effects of remote, retroactive intercessory prayer on outcomes in patients with bloodstream infection: randomised controlled trial. Br Med J 2001;323(7327):1450-1451.
Matthews DA, Marlowe SM, MacNutt FS. Effects of intercessory prayer on patients with rheumatoid arthritis. South Med J 2000;93(12):1177-1186.
Matthews WJ, et al. The effects of intercessory prayer, positive visualization, and expectancy on the well-being of kidney dialysis patients. J Am Med Assoc 2001;2376.
Roberts L, Ahmed I, Hall S. Intercessory prayer for the alleviation of ill health (Cochrane Review). The Cochrane Library (Oxford: Update Software), 2002.
Rosner F. Therapeutic efficacy of prayer. Arch Intern Med 2000;160(12):1875-1878.
Rossiter-Thornton JF. Prayer in psychotherapy. Altern Ther Health Med 2000;6(1): 125-128.
Sloan RP, Bagiella E, VandeCreek L, et al. Should physicians prescribe religious activities? N Engl J Med 2000;342(25):1913-1916.
Smith JG, Fisher R. The effect of remote intercessory prayer on clinical outcomes. Arch Intern Med 2000;160(12):1876-1878.
Wiesendanger H, Werthmuller L, Reuter K, et al. Chronically ill patients treated by spiritual healing improve in quality of life: results of a randomized waiting-list controlled study. J Altern Complement Med 2001;7(1):45-51.
| Last updated: | August 21, 2006 |
|---|---|
| Reviewed By: | Faculty of Harvard Medical School |
Medical content reviewed by the Faculty of the Harvard Medical School. Harvard Health Publications, Copyright © 2007 by President and Fellows of Harvard College. All rights reserved. Used with permission of StayWell.
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. By using AOL Body, you indicate that you have read, understood, and agreed to our Terms of Service, Use of Content Agreement and AOL Body Advertising Policy. Read more about our content partners.
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