Key Takeaway
A single hour of EFT tapping reduced cortisol levels by 24% compared to talk therapy or rest, demonstrating measurable physiological stress reduction.
Summary
This randomized controlled trial examined whether Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) produces measurable changes in stress hormones. Participants were randomly assigned to receive one hour of EFT, supportive talk therapy (psychoeducation), or rest.
The EFT group showed a 24% decrease in cortisol levels, significantly greater than the talk therapy (-14%) or rest (-14%) groups. Psychological symptoms (anxiety, depression) also improved more in the EFT group. This study provided important objective biological evidence for EFT's stress-reducing effects.
Methods
- Randomized controlled trial, 3 groups
- 83 participants, non-clinical population
- Single 1-hour intervention session
- Salivary cortisol before and after
- Psychological symptom questionnaires
Key Results
- EFT: 24% cortisol reduction
- Talk therapy: 14% cortisol reduction
- Rest: 14% cortisol reduction
- Between-group differences significant (p < 0.03)
- EFT showed greater anxiety/depression improvement
- Large effect sizes for EFT group
Limitations
- Single session only
- Non-clinical population
- Cortisol is one stress marker among many
- No long-term follow-up