Acupuncture for Smoking Cessation Contributed by Blossom Clinic’s Jennie King, LAc
While there is no golden pill to make you quit smoking, acupuncture is a great tool to help strengthen your resolve, minimize cravings, alleviate nicotine withdrawal symptoms, and get you through the transition. Once you have decided to quit, getting the support that you need is key to your success.
The decision to quit smoking is yours. The data on smoking has made it clear that it affects your health and the health of those around you. Cigarette smoking is a powerful addiction, but it does not need to define you. It is a habit that can be broken, not who you really are.
Come in on your quit date and fill out a questionnaire that identifies your triggers and helps you define your support system for quitting. Together we will customize a plan for you. A typical treatment course with acupuncture includes ear and body points to address your lungs, your emotions, and your constitution. If it is appropriate for you, a tens unit (also known as an electro acupuncture machine) will be used to further stimulate the needles. The treatments are relaxing and take the edge off cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Some patients report that cigarettes taste bad if they do try to smoke. Lung supporting herbs or teas may also be prescribed if they are needed. Supplements may also be indicated to alleviate withdrawal symptoms such as irritability, anxiety, general stress, and difficulty concentrating.
We recommend three treatments the first week (the withdrawal period), and two the following week as you progress. If you feel that you need additional support, more treatments will be available throughout the process.
Health benefits to you are immediate. A drop in heart rate starts just 20 minutes after your last cigarette. Your health keeps improving as you get further away from the smoking habit.
Here is what one of our patients said about quitting with acupuncture: “I went to Blossom Clinic to quit smoking. After 6 prior failed attempts at quitting with other methods, I finally found acupuncture. My acupuncturist at Blossom has such a peaceful and caring manner, she was so easy to talk to and helped me understand Eastern Medicine. I have not smoked in over 4 years and feel great. After her smoking cessation program she helped me with running pain and was a great spiritual help to me in other endeavors. I am so grateful for her help and recommend her highly to all my friends that ask about acupuncture.” -MMC, Oregon
If you are interested in the timeline of your body’s healing process once you have dropped the habit, check this website. For more information on quitting and getting support, explore these websites: