Acupuncture can help you quit smoking

Acupuncture has been used to treat addiction for many years. Curbing addiction, specifically when it comes to smoking, is not something that can be done overnight (often referred to as “quitting cold turkey”).

During the journey of quitting, there will be times when you think you won’t be able to stay smoke-free and want to give up. Considering acupuncture treatment when you are trying to quit can have great effects on helping you back on the road to better health.

Read more about how acupuncture can help here in our previous post.

At Starting Point Acupuncture and Wellness, we offer a comprehensive Quit Smoking Program. This program is excellent to help decrease withdrawal effects as well as increasing your chances of success in obtaining your health goals.

In addition to acupuncture to aid in the smoking cessation program. There are other things you can do to help.

Alternative treatments to help with smoking cessation

Cayenne Pepper

Cayenne pepper can lower cravings for cigarettes by lowering the respiratory response to tobacco and other chemicals found in cigarettes. Adding the pepper to a glass of water every day can help decrease your desire for a smoke.

Lime

Lime has been known to be a natural alternative to nicotine gum for quitting smoking. Squeeze lime into water throughout the day to help lower cravings. Lime also has an anti-infective agent to help the body’s immune defense.

Fava beans

Because fava beans contain L-dopa, which your body converts dopamine, these beans have been known to reduce nicotine cravings. Nicotine has addictive properties because it also releases dopamine in the brain, by finding alternatives that have the same effects, your nicotine cravings will be reduced. There are many recipes that can be made with fava beans and are easily available at the grocery store.

Massage

Many people who are trying to quit smoking experience anxiety. For smokers who have smoked regularly for years, massage may be an effective option in reducing anxiety associating with quitting.

Acupuncture

Research has shown that acupuncture not only reduces cravings but can also reduce symptoms of withdrawal such as irritability and jitters. Acupuncture works by targeting specific acupuncture points on the body that help return the body back to its natural energy flow, resulting in better overall health.

There are also simple acupressure techniques to cope with cravings such as ear massages which is one way you can cope with cravings at home. Doing this releases endorphins (which are natural painkillers).

If you have tried many of the above methods to try and quit smoking, reach out to us at (425) 686-4498 and schedule your initial consultation! We can create an individualized treatment plan to get you on the right track to being smoke-free.