Brain Chemistry and the Placebo Effect

To date all studies of the placebo effect have relied on anecdotal data, viz., qualitative responses as reported by the patient. But a new study that explored brain chemistry found that patients who were suffering with pain released more natural painkilling endorphins after the placebos were administered.

“This deals another serious blow to the idea that the placebo effect is purely psychological, with no physical basis,” said Dr. Jon-Kar Zubieta, associate professor of psychiatry and radiology at the Michigan Medical School. “The mind-body connection is quite clear.”