From the Guidelines
No, there is no scientific support for the existence of chi or energy meridians in the human body as traditionally described in practices like acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine. The concept of chi and energy meridians is rooted in ancient healing traditions that predate modern scientific understanding of human anatomy, physiology, and cellular biology. While some studies, such as the clinical practice guideline on Bell's palsy 1, discuss the use of acupuncture and its potential benefits, they also highlight the uncertainty and lack of high-quality evidence supporting the existence of chi and energy meridians.
The mechanisms proposed for acupuncture, such as increasing nerve excitability and promoting regeneration of nerve fibers, are based on theoretical suggestions rather than confirmatory evidence 1. The selection of acupoints along Yang meridians is based on traditional beliefs rather than scientific proof. Modern scientific research has not been able to detect or measure these proposed energy pathways using conventional scientific instruments or methods.
The benefits observed from practices like acupuncture are more likely attributed to neurological responses, placebo effects, and other physiological mechanisms rather than the manipulation of an undetectable energy force. The human body's actual energy systems are well-documented through scientific research and include cellular metabolism, electrical activity in the nervous system, and biochemical processes—all of which operate according to established principles of physics, chemistry, and biology rather than through invisible energy channels as described in traditional energy medicine concepts.
Key points to consider:
- The lack of high-quality evidence supporting the existence of chi and energy meridians
- The theoretical nature of proposed mechanisms for acupuncture
- The attribution of benefits from acupuncture to known physiological mechanisms rather than unknown energy forces
- The well-documented scientific understanding of the human body's energy systems, which does not include chi or energy meridians as traditionally described.
From the Research
Scientific Support for Chi and Energy Meridians
- The concept of chi and energy meridians is rooted in traditional Chinese medicine, but its validity and mechanisms are not fully understood by Western medicine 2, 3.
- Studies on acupuncture, which is based on the concept of energy meridians, have shown its effectiveness in treating various pain conditions, including chronic low back pain, migraines, and fibromyalgia 4, 5, 6.
- However, the existence of energy meridians themselves has not been proven, and the mechanisms of action of acupuncture are not fully elucidated 2, 3.
- Some studies suggest that the benefits of acupuncture may be due to a notable placebo response or meaning response, rather than the actual manipulation of energy meridians 5.
- Research on energy medicine, including the concept of subtle anatomy and energy physiology, is ongoing, and some studies propose plausible and testable energy-based explanations for certain phenomena, such as phantom limb pain and emotional entrainment 3.
- Despite the lack of conclusive evidence, the phenomenon of meridians has been confirmed, and some biological basis behind its occurrence must be present, implying that research on meridians needs to continue as research techniques advance 2.