Acupuncture to Stop Smoking -
A Natural Aid

Acupuncture to stop smoking can be an effective way to manage your cravings and withdrawal symptoms when you quit smoking. It can not make to stop smoking nor is it designed to do so but if you are looking for an alternative means to quit it can be a great support. It can also be a wonderful support to other methods of smoking cessation such as stop smoking patches and FDA approved medications.

Acupuncture has been practiced in China and other Asian countries for thousands of years and is one of the key components of traditional Chinese medicine. Acupuncture uses tiny needles inserted into various sensory receptors to arouse nerves that send out impulses to the pituitary system found at the base of the brain.

The pituitary system has a series of glands are in charge for releasing neurotransmitters and endorphins. Endorphins can be described at a natural pain killer and can help to relieve some of the symptoms common with nicotine withdrawal including headaches.

For smoking cessation, it is used to treat the individual symptoms associated with breaking the addition to nicotine including fatigue, irritability, headaches, nausea and cravings. Your acupuncturist will design an individual acupuncture treatment based on the individual and their needs. Using this method to stop smoking is especially great for those with other concerns where taking medications to help may not be an option i.e. during pregnancy and those who have had side effects such as depression with other stop smoking methods.

The cost of an initial consultation and treatment ranges from $40 - $100. Each follow up treatment ranges from $30 - $80 in most of the United States. A typical schedule after in the initial visit is 2-3 time per week for a month then as needed depending on the individual.

Many acupuncturists may also recommend herbs or other natural aids to help with withdrawal symptoms. Please make sure they are a licensed acupuncturist/herbologist before taking any herbs or supplements. Many have been used for centuries in China but it is best to make sure that they will not interact with any other medications you many be on.

Additionally, it can also be used in combination with other stop smoking methods including all of the nicotine replacement therapies and prescription medications for smoking cessation. Side effects associated with this method are minimal and will be review by your acupuncturist prior to any treatments.

In review, acupuncture is a natural aid for smoking cessation. It will not work for everyone but can be a safe, effective way to manage your withdrawal symptoms rather than go cold turkey. Please always make sure you are using a licensed and qualified acupuncturist!



Sources to Find Qualified Licensed Acupuncturists:

National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine at www.nccaom.org/

Acupuncture Referred Services at www.acufinder.com




To find out more information on other stop smoking programs, click on the links below:

Stop Smoking Laser Treatments
Is it right for you? How does it work, how long does it take, how much does it cost, what are the success rates and what are the side effects.

Stop Smoking Medications
A review of two FDA approved smoking cessation medications – Zyban and Chantix- including their use, success rates, how they work, and possible side effects.

Stop Smoking Inhaler and Nasal Spray
A review of the FDA approved stop smoking inhaler and nasal spray including how and why they work, who they are best for and possible side effects.

Stop Smoking Injections
A review of the stop smoking injections (also called the stop smoking shot) including their uses, how they work, success rates and side effects.

Stop Smoking Patches, Gum and Lozenges
A review of three common NRT (Nicotine Replacement Therapies) for smoking cessation including stop smoking patches, gum, and lozenges. We review general information, costs, success rates, and possible side effects.

Learn to Stop Smoking
Why you should stop, breaking the habit, the physiological and psychological addictions, symptoms of nicotine withdrawal and medication and programs that are available.

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