Meditation interventions efficiently reduce cortisol levels of at-risk samples: a meta-analysis
Health Psychology Review July 7, 2020 Á. Koncz, Z. Demetrovics, Z. Takacs
A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials found that meditation interventions reduce cortisol levels, but the effect depends on the population. In 10 studies that measured cortisol in blood, there was a medium-sized significant reduction for at-risk groups—specifically patients with a somatic illness—but not for no-risk samples. In 21 studies using saliva samples, the overall effect was small and not significant, though a marginally significant reduction appeared for people living in stressful life situations. These results suggest meditation interventions are most beneficial for populations already at risk for elevated cortisol. Preliminary evidence indicates the benefits may persist over time.