How to Quit Smoking Through Acupuncture

First used in ancient China, acupuncture dates back thousands of years. In this approach, ailments are treated by inserting thin needles at specific points along nerve pathways. These needles stimulate the body in way that promotes both healing and the release of natural painkillers. Many believe acupuncture can be used to treat a number of maladies, including infertility, impotence, chronic fatigue and anxiety. It's also been used to treat a host of addictions, including smoking.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Computer with Internet access for locating an acupuncturist

1. Find an acupuncturist with the right experience. Ideally, you'll want a practitioner with a history of helping patients quit their smoking habits. Visit the Acufinder Web site to find a list of acupuncturists in your area (see Resources below).
2. Get an adequate number of treatment sessions. In one study about using acupuncture to help participants quit smoking, success was achieved after 3 weeks of treatment, with sessions taking place twice a week. Discuss your case with your acupuncturist and see what his or her recommendations are regarding treatment duration.
3. Incorporate acupressure into your program. Acupressure can work to support your acupuncture routine. What's more, your therapist can teach you how to use these techniques yourself, giving you some degree of autonomy in your regimen. Ear acupressure has successfully been used in tandem with acupuncture to help smokers break the habit. Discuss acupressure options through with your therapist.

Tips & Warnings

• The cost of acupuncture treatment ranges in cost from moderate to expensive. Rates will hinge on the experience of your acupuncturist, as well as his or her educational background. Location also plays a part, with care in some cities being more expensive than care in others.
• Herbs and supplements may be prescribed to support your acupuncture treatment. These range in price from budget to inexpensive.
• Some states require the acupuncturists be licensed. Find out if your state is one of them by visiting the Acufinder Web site.
• If experiencing severe symptoms such as the vomiting of blood, do not attempt to treat your condition through acupuncture. Instead, seek the care of a physician.
• Before you start any alternative medical technique, be aware that many have not been scientifically evaluated. Often, only limited information is available about their safety and effectiveness. Each state and each discipline has its own rules about how alternative medicine practitioners can be professionally licensed. If you decide to visit one, choose one licensed by a recognized national organization. Consult your primary health care provider about your decision first. Keep your doctor informed about the alternative medical technique you undertake.