Cymatic Therapy
Other common name(s): cymatherapy
Scientific/medical name(s): none
Description
Cymatic therapy is a form of sound therapy. Cymatics refers to the effect of sound waves on matter, and cymatic therapy presumes that sound can have similar effects on the body.
Overview
Available scientific evidence does not support the claim that cymatics can have a healing effect.
How is it promoted for use?
According to practitioners, illness appears when the rhythms of the heart, brain, and other organs are not working harmoniously. Proponents say that the sound waves promote a healing environment for the body's cells, restoring the body’s rhythms and boosting the immune system.
What does it involve?
During treatment, computerized instruments are used to transmit sound waves through the skin, either directed toward the diseased organ or transmitted along the acupuncture meridians. The practitioner selects frequencies that are similar to those that are normally emitted by the healthy body part. The signals passed through these cymatic devices are supposed to restore synchronous rhythms and boost the body’s regulatory and immunologic systems. In some of the newer cymatic devices, a magnetic field has been added to oscillate along with the sound waves.
What is the history behind it?
Cymatic was developed in the 1960s by Sir Peter Guy Manners, MD, DO, PhD, of England. It is based on the work of Hans Jenny, who coined the term “cymatics” in the mid-twentieth century.
What is the evidence?
Practitioners of cymatic therapy believe that sound waves can rearrange molecules in the body. Although the sound waves do not directly heal, proponents say that the waves promote a healing environment for the body's cells. Available scientific evidence does not support this claim.
Are there any possible problems or complications?
Cymatic therapy is safe as long as it is done by a skilled practitioner. Relying on this type of treatment alone and avoiding or delaying conventional medical care for cancer may have serious health consequences.
Additional resources
More information from your American Cancer Society
The following information on complementary and alternative therapies may also be helpful to you. These materials may be found on our Web site (www.cancer.org) or ordered from our toll-free number (1-800-ACS-2345).
Guidelines for Using Complementary and Alternative Therapies
Dietary Supplements: How to Know What Is Safe
The ACS Operational Statement on Complementary and Alternative Methods of Cancer Management
Complementary and Alternative Methods for Cancer Management
Learning About New Ways to Treat Cancer
Learning About New Ways to Prevent Cancer
References
Helwig D. Cymatic therapy. In: Krapp K, Longe J, eds. The Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine. Farmington Hills, MI: Gale Group; 2001.
Raphael A. Cymatics today with Elizabeth Colorio. Spirit of Ma'at. 2002;3. Spirit of Ma’at Web site. Accessed at http://www.spiritofmaat.com/archive/oct3/colorio.htm on May 23, 2008.
Note: This information may not cover all possible claims, uses, actions, precautions, side effects or interactions. It is not intended as medical advice, and should not be relied upon as a substitute for consultation with your doctor, who is familiar with your medical situation.
Feedback
