Can Acupuncture Help to Quit Smoking?

Acupuncture is a therapeutic procedure invented by people of ancient Chinese civilization. This process of holistic healing involves insertion of thin and tiny needles in to various points of a patient’s body. According to theory of ancient Chinese medicines, the acupuncture needles work by affecting the patient’s ‘qi’ (pronounced as ‘chee’). ‘Qi’ is basically the energy that enables us to breath, talk, eat and walk. The primary goal of an acupuncturist is manipulating the patient’s ‘qi’ through insertion of the acupuncture needles and in the process balancing his physical and mental states.

Over the years, it has been found that acupuncture therapy can be successfully used for treating addictive behaviors, which includes smoking. The recently conducted studies have revealed that 40% people undergoing acupuncture therapy in conjunction with psychological counseling could successfully quit smoking. Acupuncture can help people looking to quit smoking in reducing their tobacco craving by balancing their brain chemistry. This therapeutic procedure can also detoxify internal organs of the smokers and eliminate the effects made by cigarette smoke and nicotine. Quitting smoking often results in stress and anxiety, which can successfully managed by acupuncture therapy.

Majority of the acupuncture points that needs to be treated in people looking to quit smoking are located in and around the ears. According to expert acupuncturists, the protocol of the treatment procedure suggests treating 5 auricular acupuncture points for helping an individual in getting rid of the smoking habit. These 5 points are linked with the patient’s kidneys, lungs, nervous system and liver. On certain occasions, some points of the patient’s arms and legs might also be treated; treating these points helps in regulating our system and promoting detoxification and relaxation. Acupuncturists may recommend intake of some Chinese herbs for reducing nicotine cravings between two treatment sessions.

Usually, a person looking to quit smoking needs to undergo 2 to 4 acupuncture sessions every week continuously for 2-3 weeks. Before undergoing the treatment, one must ensure that he is emotionally and mentally ready to leave the smoking habit. Most people undergoing acupuncture for quitting smoking have reported about a change of the taste of tobacco; some have also reported that they are not enjoying smoking anymore.