The addiction to nicotine experienced by smokers means they have higher endorphin levels and when they give up, these levels of endorphins drop. Endorphins are opiate-like substances in the body that can raise the spirits and provide moments of relaxation. Essentially acupuncture assists with smoking cessation as it maintains the levels of endorphins and stabilizes their release.
Acupuncture treatments to quit smoking are usually combinations of body acupuncture, auricular ear acupuncture, and Chinese Herbal Medicine. Three different areas are worked on during acupuncture treatments: points for the addiction to nicotine to help block the body’s need for the drug; diet points to control appetite and avoid weight gain; and stress and relaxation points to help avoid withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety and irritability.
Therefore acupuncture treatments to stop smoking assist in the following ways:
– Acupuncture assists in relaxation, diverting stress that leads to smoking.
– Acupuncture balances the body, helping detoxification after quitting smoking.
– Acupuncture significantly reduces nicotine cravings making it easier to stop smoking.
It is important to be committed to quitting smoking when starting an Acupuncture smoking cessation program, as this increases its chances of success. Acupuncture is considered by much as a safe and effective way to quit smoking. Many health professionals recommend at least four sessions of acupuncture for the first month of quitting.
