Acupuncture Smoking Cessation Program

Acupuncture is an effective tool to enable one to quit smoking by minimizing cravings, calming the nervous system and strengthening will power. A comprehensive program including acupuncture, Chinese herbs and consultation is even more effective than conventional acupuncture therapy. However, there is no "magic bullet" that can make the detox experience disappear. A successful program requires a join effort from acupuncturist and the patient as well as a proper case management that includes patient preparation, commitment and education.

The program can only work if the person is ready to quit and willing to commit to the process. It does not work for those who are forced by other people to quit smoking.

Acupuncture program includes auricular acupuncture, body acupuncture and some Chinese herbal products. It usually takes about 3-5 visits to complete the program. Some people may need longer time. Acupuncture interrupts messages sent by the brain to the body demanding more nicotine, thereby disrupting the addictive process. It can eliminate most cravings, but not the habit. Acupuncture reduces the number of cravings to 3-5 each day. The person's responsibility is to make it through those few cravings. Some Chinese herbal products may help the patient to make through the final process.

 

Patient's Responsibility

Support Person - The decision to stop smoking can elicit uncomfortable emotions. Ask someone who is available to you in the next few weeks to act as a sounding board and provide encouragement when needed.

Affirmation - An affirmation is a positive statement repeated often to create desired changes in your life. Repeating the affirmation helps not only to remind you why you are no longer smoking but also imprints a new image of health so that the body can then produce health. Examples: "I am a non-smoker. I make healthy choices in my life."

Setting Boundaries - Set up contracts with other smokers to refrain from smoking in your presence. This includes spouses. When possible stay away from smokers until you feel more confident with your nonsmoking health status.

Drinking water - Research shows that dryness causes cravings. Sip water frequently throughout the day.

Refrain from drinking coffee - Research shows that coffee causes cravings and dehydrates the body.

Food choices - Eat a lot of carrots. celery and other vegetables throughout the next few days. Candies upset blood sugar level, which can aggravate smoking-withdrawal symptoms. Some sugar substitutes are sweeter than sugar and cause further sugar cravings.

Managing cravings - Cravings feel like it will last forever but actually fade in two minutes. Plan what you will do during a craving. Examples: take your herbs; press ear points; repeat your affirmation; breath deeply; walk to another place; sing a song; dance; call your support person.