Eastern Medicine Approach to Smoking Addictions

Smoking has severely negative effects on health; it can cause cancer, heart disease, strokes, and even death. Despite these risks being widely known, people still find it very difficult to quit smoking.

Two-thirds of all smokers consider quitting each year, but only 7% are successful in doing so on their first try. Nicotine triggers chemical reactions in the body to release dopamine and endorphins, which heighten awareness and cause a feeling of pleasure. This sensation is what creates the nicotine addiction.

Through acupuncture and acupressure massage, we can increase the body’s natural production of endorphins and dopamine, relieving you of the need to turn to cigarettes for that “high” feeling.

We can also reduce the stress, anxiety, cravings, and depression that often arise during the process of quitting. These withdrawal symptoms can be one of the most difficult parts of successfully overcoming an addiction, and reducing them can make it significantly easier for you to stay the course. This approach is effective not only for quitting smoking, but also for getting rid of addictions to other substances and bad habits.

Medical Research on Smoking Addictions

The effects of acupuncture treatments can be effective and long-lasting. One study conducted in Norway followed 46 smokers, both men and women, over a treatment period of eight months and a follow-up period of five years. During the treatment period, twice as many people receiving acupuncture successfully reduced their smoking, compared to those in the control group. The control group also showed a tendency to relapse over the next five years, whereas those who had been treated with acupuncture were able to stay off smoking.

Smoking Addiction Research Links:
Effects of Acupuncture on Smoking Cessation, Preventative Medicine
20 Tips to Quit Smoking, International Business Times

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Nabacu Eastern Medicine > Services > Smoking Addictions