Are you ready to stop smoking?
I often get calls from people asking, “Can acupuncture really help people stop smoking?” They are surprised to learn that a relatively simple treatment can actually help them stop smoking. There have been a multitude of medical research articles over the years that have shared how acupuncture can help people stop smoking. For example, the Cleveland Clinic published an article last year called, “Want to Quit Smoking? Acupuncture Can Help You With Cravings“. Additionally, the National Library of Medicine published an article called, “Effect of acupuncture on smoking cessation or reduction: an 8-month and 5-year follow-up study” that contains links to a number of additional studies.
When I was in acupuncture school, one of my teachers shared his opinion that smoking isn’t such a bad thing. We were all surprised by this and wanted to know more. He explained that many people smoke because it gives them a reason to take a break. When someone smokes, they often remove themselves from whatever situation they are in. They stop doing whatever they are doing. Typically, they go outside and take a break. Making a habit of regularly taking breaks is great for our health. The idea is to learn to do this without smoking a cigarette.
How does acupuncture help someone stop smoking?
First, it’s important to look at the person as a whole. Acupuncturists take time to do a thorough intake and health history review with every patient. This enables us to identify any energetic imbalances and potential underlying issues that may make it more difficult to stop smoking. Additionally, specific areas on the body can be stimulated to help with things like craving control and addiction.
In an acupuncture treatment, small needles about the width of a hair are inserted into the skin to stimulate acupuncture points. The needles are so tiny that people often don’t feel them going in. Patients then rest comfortably on a massage table for about 20-25 minutes. It’s not unusual for people to feel so relaxed that they fall asleep. Acupuncture can evoke the relaxation response, which is one way to take a break without needing a cigarette. You can read more about the relaxation response in my blog Healing yourself with the relaxation response.
People often ask how long it takes to see results from an acupuncture treatment. This is a difficult question to answer because every person is different, and it really depends on their individual response to the treatment. Generally, people can reasonably expect to see results after about 6 to 10 treatments. They will typically start noticing other benefits, like feeling more relaxed or improved sleep, much sooner than that.
How ear seeds can support acupuncture to help someone stop smoking
Ear seeds are a great addition to an acupuncture treatment. An ear seed is a small sphere. It stimulates an acupuncture point on the surface of the ear. Ear seeds attach to the ear with adhesive tape that looks like a band aid or clear surgical tape. They work by exerting a gentle pressure on the acupuncture point. Patients can wear ear seeds for up to five days. I love to use ear seeds because they are a great way to continue the treatment at home. For example, an ear seed on the craving control point can be gently squeezed and stimulated at home whenever someone feels the need for a cigarette.
Ear seeds are also a standalone treatment for people who are afraid of needles or who are not able to see an acupuncturist. Ear seeds are a lower cost option for people who cannot afford acupuncture treatments. Condition-specific ear seed kits are available to purchase and use at home. They contain the ear seeds, an application tool, and instructions. One of the most popular kits I have is the Stop Smoking ear seeds kit. You can read more about ear seeds in the All about ear seeds and auriculotherapy blog.
Want to talk about how acupuncture and ear seeds can help you stop smoking? I’d love to hear from you. Reach out and email me through our website or call or text 910-622-4269.
About the Author
Ericca Burke is the owner of HAVEN Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine where she provides acupuncture and Chinese medicine treatments in Wilmington, NC. Click this link to read more about Ericca.
About HAVEN Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine in Wilmington, NC
HAVEN Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine is an acupuncture and Chinese medicine practice located in Wilmington, NC just minutes from beautiful Wrightsville Beach. Click this link for contact information and directions. Click this link for a listing and description of services offered.