Abstract

BERGADO, Jorge A. Homo sapiens, faith and the placebo effect. Rev Cubana Salud Pública [online]. 2012, vol.38, suppl.5, pp. 679-685. ISSN 0864-3466.

The so called placebo and nocebo effects are real, and result from the interaction between the mental activity and the functioning of the body. This interaction is presently described in precise terms as the influence exerted by limbic structures on the hypothalamus and on the brain stem's nuclei that control the endocrine, motor and vegetative functions. Understanding of these mechanisms discloses the important role played by suggestion, like trusting your therapist or trusting the treatment, in the cure of diseases and their sequels. There is also evidence that therapies without a strong scientific foundation, like acupuncture, homeopathy or flower therapy, can achieve some results based on these mechanisms. The introduction of the psychobiological principles governing the effect of placebo into the medical practice could contribute to a more effective and human medicine, provided that the ethical limits imposed by the truth and the respect to the patient´s integrity and intelligence are observed.

Keywords : placebo; nocebo; limbic system; brain; mind; body; medical-patient relation; ethics.

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