1. the treatment of physical or psychological illness by means of religious practices, such as prayer or “laying on of hands.” Adherents hold that this may be effective even when those being prayed for have no knowledge of the fact and no belief in the process themselves. Also called faith cure; religious healing; spiritual healing.

2. any form of unorthodox medical treatment whose efficacy is said to depend upon the patient’s faith in the healer or the healing process (see placebo effect). In such cases, any beneficial effects may be attributed to a psychosomatic process rather than a paranormal or supernatural one. See also mental healing; psychic healing.