The Science of EFT Tapping

This is a synopsis of scientific studies and updates on EFT Tapping that were presented by clinical and health psychologist, Dr. Peta Stapleton, at this year’s Tapping World Summit.

- A 2019 publication (nih.gov) of a study supporting evidence of meridian pathways: after injection of fluorescent dyes in the acupoints of the pericardium meridian, fluorescent lines following along this meridian were observed, but not from the nonacupoint control points. These findings are considered significant for supporting eft tapping effectiveness as eft tapping points are based on acupuncture meridians and their corresponding acupressure points. “This study is the first to reveal a dynamic, functional link between acupuncture points and meridians.”

- Another study published in 2019 using (for the first time) fMRI scans indicate that tapping may reduce food cravings.

- A new study in 2021 performed by Maharaj at Akamai University and published in the peer-reviewed journal Energy Psychology: Theory, Research, and Treatment measured full mRNA genomes to show that 72 genes changed expression immediately after EFT tapping. Some of the epigenetically altered gene functions include inflammation and immune response, regulation of stress response, tumor suppression, male fertility, and insulin regulation. Additional information here.

- Dawson Church continues to study the significant impact EFT Tapping has when used to treat war veterans with PTSD. NIH.gov studies cited here. Stapleton mentioned that some data show that after eft tapping, 6 genes associated with PTSD were down regulated and PTSD symptoms were gone.

- According to Stapleton, EFT Tapping is now recognized and supported by even more significant organizations such as the Canadian Counseling and Psychotherapy Association, and The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (UK) which has consistently listed EFT Tapping within the top four most effective and cost-effective interventions for PTSD. Australia-based Blue Knot Foundation has listed EFT Tapping in clinical guidelines for PTSD, and coverage for tapping has been approved by Australia’s National Disability Services. Additionally in 2020 the American Psychological Association cited an EFT tapping study that showed tapping reduces levels of the stress hormone cortisol. 

- Stapleton also reported that the APA has approved a team to evaluate the effectiveness of EFT for PTSD to be included in an evidence-based listing for their website. Dr. Stapleton is excited for the potential of this recommendation to influence doctors and hospitals to use EFT.

- For the first time at any university, Masters level EFT teaching will soon begin at Bond University in Australia where Dr. Stapleton is an Associate Professor Chair of Graduate Research in psychology.

Please email me if you have any additions, questions or corrections to this information.

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