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How effective is yoga? A concise overview of systematic reviews
Article first published online: 25 NOV 2010
DOI: 10.1111/j.2042-7166.2010.01049.x
© 2010 The Authors. FACT © 2010 Royal Pharmaceutical Society
Issue
Focus on Alternative and Complementary Therapies
Volume 15, Issue 4, pages 274–279, December 2010
Additional Information
How to Cite
Ernst, E. and Lee, M. S. (2010), How effective is yoga? A concise overview of systematic reviews. Focus on Alternative and Complementary Therapies, 15: 274–279. doi: 10.1111/j.2042-7166.2010.01049.x
Publication History
- Issue published online: 25 NOV 2010
- Article first published online: 25 NOV 2010
- Abstract
- Article
- References
- Cited By
Keywords:
- Bias;
- effectiveness;
- evidence;
- systematic review;
- yoga
Abstract
Yoga has become a popular form of CAM and is often advocated for a wide range of conditions. The aim of this overview was to evaluate critically all systematic reviews of yoga for the symptomatic treatment of any condition. Twelve electronic databases were searched and 21 systematic reviews relating to a wide range of conditions were located. Nine systematic reviews arrived at positive conclusions, but many systematic reviews were associated with a high risk of bias. Unanimously positive evidence emerged for depression and cardiovascular risk reduction. Despite an impressive number of systematic reviews, evidence of effectiveness is positive only for two indications.