Crystal healing gained a following with the initial rise of New Age spiritual movements. Yet even in 2019, some people are turning to it as they seek better health and longer lives. What’s behind the practice, and is there any scientific proof that it works? The answers to these questions may be a little more complex than you expect.
A Quick Introduction to Crystals
Live Science discusses the basic premises behind crystal healing. Simply put, gemstones and crystals are thought to possess properties that encourage the body to heal. Some practitioners, such as Allure writer Aliza Kelly Faragher, point to the various ways in which crystals are used in modern technologies and their oscillation at different frequencies. Stones are placed directly on a person’s body during a healing session, worn as jewelry, carried in one’s pocket, or placed upon a home altar during worship.
There’s no universal standard that defines how each type of stone is supposed to work, but many draw their ideas from spiritual practices across East Asia and the Indian subcontinent. Others look to the ceremonial and religious use of crystals by Indigenous American cultures. Dr. Athena Perrakis, the founder of Sage Goddess, offers one guide based on the classical elements, Western zodiac signs, and chakras. In Indian spiritual traditions, chakras are psychic energy nodes with their own areas of influence and representative colors. Many more guides exist online and in print, with different suggestions and interpretations of how specific crystals can be used.
Crystal Healing Gains New Popularity
Crystal healing is gaining new interest among younger adults. A February 2018 article in The Guardian reveals that Google searches for “crystal healing” have increased by 40%. Cultural luminaries and tastemakers have been spotted using crystals, and crystals have also entered the world of high fashion. Designer and businesswoman Victoria Beckham uses black obsidian to line both sides of her catwalks, citing the need to repel negative energy.
These details exist among a larger trend of mysticism influencing clothing design with stars, constellations, and mystical colors. Meanwhile, Pacific Standard Magazine reports that crystals’ usage in spiritual practices has moved beyond the fashion designer’s studio. Young adults under 35 are the new target audience for crystal healing and other alternative spiritual practices, even though these groups tend to be less religious than their older counterparts.
The stones’ move to mainstream pop culture has resulted in new, updated commercial prospects and approaches. Besides healing and spirituality, these stones are now taking center stage in the beauty and personal care industries. Sales of crystal-infused beauty products continue to rise, especially ones containing rose quartz.
Is Crystal Healing Real? Experts Weigh In
Scientists generally credit the placebo effect for any benefits experienced by crystal healing practitioners. An October 2017 Time article mentions a 2001 study in which people were evaluated for their beliefs in the paranormal, then asked to meditate while holding either real or counterfeit quartz crystals. Those with greater paranormal beliefs were more likely to claim they’d experienced physical sensations such as tingling and vibrations while holding the crystals.
Even so, many experts suggest that the placebo effect shouldn’t be discounted as phony or fraudulent. It can be powerful in its own right, as several other studies reveal. An August 2019 piece from Harvard Health mentions that genuine positive reactions to a placebo could point to non-pharmacological impacts at work. Yet it may not be as simple as “mind over matter,” since treatment rituals may be necessary to enjoy any benefits.
The Power of Belief and Practice
Human spiritual beliefs are as diverse as they are numerous. Some traditions have been with us for thousands of years, while others have recently evolved into existence. It’s unclear how long crystal healing has been with us, but one thing is certain: Those who practice it claim very real benefits and results.