Using Acupuncture to Quit Smoking
Acupuncture is an element of traditional Chinese medicine that originated in China over 5,000 years ago. Acupuncture to quit smoking can reduce the cravings and lessen the withdrawal symptoms associated with quitting smoking cigarettes. A successful acupuncture program will include patient preparation, patient dedication, and education about what acupuncture can and cannot do for you.When dealing with acupuncture to quit smoking each patient is custom-treated according to his or her unique diagnosis -- your acupuncturist may do an interview to learn about your specific smoking habits (where you enjoy smoking, when you enjoy smoking, etc.) and perform a physical examination.
Usually a combination of body acupuncture points and points on the ear are used that are believed to influence the organs and energetic conduits associated with smoking.
How Acupuncture Works to Help You Quit Smoking
There is a lot of speculation about how acupuncture works. Some of the ways acupuncture works are:- Acupuncture causes the release of pain-relieving endorphins
- Acupuncture influences the release of neurotransmitters, substances that transmit nerve impulses to the brain
- Acupuncture influences the autonomic nervous system
- Acupuncture encourages circulation
- Acupuncture manipulates the electrical currents of the body
The length, number and frequency of treatments will vary depending upon the person who is trying acupuncture to quit smoking. Typical treatments last from five to 30 minutes, with the patient being treated one or two times a week. You can, in some cases, be relieved of your nicotine addiction after one treatment. But more than often, and for heavy smokers, you will probably require numerous treatments.
A stop smoking program using acupuncture to quit smoking will often consist of 4-6 initial treatments scheduled in the first few weeks followed by monthly treatments for four to six months.
Be Realistic When Using Acupuncture to Quit Smoking
As with any other quit smoking aids, there are no miracles in the treatment for nicotine addiction. There are a multitude of products on the market, from herbal remedies for quitting smoking, to quit smoking pills, laser treatments and of course acupuncture to quit smoking.By exploring the market and talking to your doctor and other people who have quit smoking or are trying to quit smoking, you will find the right path to freedom from nicotine addiction.