Hugs work like a natural sedative — they lower the level of the stress hormone cortisol. Researchers have discovered that its concentration decreases both in saliva and in blood samples of participants.
One fascinating finding: hugs reduce anxiety caused by conflicts. And they don’t just help after a stressful event — they can even act as a preventive measure. For example, if someone receives a hug in the morning and later gets into an argument, they tend to experience less emotional distress.
This conclusion comes from a study involving more than 400 people, and the effect was almost identical for both men and women. Scientists explain this phenomenon through the action of oxytocin, the so-called “bonding hormone.” It helps people feel safer, making stressful situations feel less overwhelming.
From Mental Health to Physical Well-Being
There’s a common joke about colds: “If you treat a cold, it will last 14 days. If you don’t treat it, it will last two weeks.” The point is, there are no miracle pills for the common cold. But hugs might help here as well.
According to research, people who were hugged more often experienced milder symptoms when they caught respiratory infections.
At first glance, it might seem that hugs “boost” the immune system. But scientists explain it differently — the mechanism is similar to the stress response (and, in fact, the same research group conducted these studies).
Sometimes the immune system overreacts, causing more harm than the illness itself. The sense of safety provided by hugs — due to oxytocin release and cortisol reduction — helps the body regulate immune responses more effectively.
Hugs and Inflammation
Other researchers have studied the effect of hugs on inflammatory processes in the body. Inflammation is the immune system’s reaction to disease, and the absence of excessive inflammation is a sign of better health.
Those who hugged more frequently showed better results compared to their less tactile peers.
There’s also evidence that hugs can help reduce blood pressure. Of course, no doctor will prescribe hugs instead of medication, but regular physical affection may contribute to heart health over time.
Once again, the key is oxytocin — often called the hormone of attachment. Hugs stimulate its release, which not only benefits the cardiovascular system but also strengthens trust and emotional connection between people.
Touch alone won’t build deep trust, but it creates a foundation for more supportive and calm relationships.
