Alternative & Integrative Medicine

Potential Benefits of Falun Gong Practice in COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

Yan W, Weng J, Chang DM, and He M

Objective: The COVID-19 pandemic is the largest public health crisis of this century. Challenges include the overactive immune responses such as cytokine storm and hyper-inflammation, increased likelihood of severe complications in high-risk populations, limited treatment options mainly based on supportive care and potential long-term complications from clinical management. Falun Gong was the most popular qigong in China before 1999. Limited studies have demonstrated significant positive effects of Falun Gong practice on Health Related Quality Of Life (HRQOL), cellular function and gene expression. A health survey using SF36 in Taiwan revealed significantly higher HRQOL and abstinence of unhealthy behavior including smoking among Falun Gong followers. The health benefits were also observed in those 60 years and older, and those with previous chronic conditions, all of which are among the high-risk populations in COVID-19 for severe complications. Gene expression and cellular study results of Falun Gong practice were characterized by enhanced immunity, down regulation of cellular metabolism, and alteration of apoptotic genes in favor of a rapid resolution of inflammation. Biophysical and bio-energy study demonstrated enhanced energy field and cellular function. We hypothesized that the practice could play a potentially significant role in supporting the prevention, treatment and reducing long-term complications of COVID-19. Methods and Results: By searching the internet using diagnosis as keywords, including “SARS”, “Novel Coronavirus Pneumonia”, “Pulmonary Fibrosis”, and “Femoral Head Necrosis”, we found different number of cases in which patients recovered by learning and practicing Falun Gong. Conclusion: These results suggest potential benefits of Falun Gong practice in the prevention, treatment and prognosis in COVID-19 and warrant further studies.