Chicago Acupuncture Clinic’s Successful Acupuncture to Quit Smoking Program

Acupuncture can be a very effective tool to quit smoking whether it is used alone, or in conjunction with other popular methods such as psychotherapy, nicotine replacement, or medications.  Acupuncture to quit smoking works by addressing the addiction, reducing cravings, anxiety, irritability and jitteriness.   A reduction in these symptoms makes in easier to quit smoking and stay smoke-free.

Acupuncture points are used on the body and the ear for the greatest effect.  Several points are particularly helpful when used for self acupressure points.  Your acupuncturist can affix small seeds with medical tape on these points which can be left in place for several days.  When withdrawal symptoms are experienced, the seeds can be lightly stimulated as directed which will assist in the release of endorphins, serotonin, dopamine, etc, which will help reduce the symptoms.

Although treatment programs are designed specifically for each patient, generally acupuncture to quit smoking programs start with acupuncture treatments 1-2 times per week for about 3-6 weeks followed by an occasional “tune up” as needed.  Other recommendations may be given at this time to further assist you in remaining smoke-free.    These recommendations may include herbs or dietary supplements, aerobic exercise, deep breathing and other relaxation techniques, self care acupressure points to reduce cravings, psychotherapy, diet modification and other methods particular to your case.

For Additional Information on how Acupuncture to Quit Smoking Works:

Smoking Cessation After Acupuncture Treatment
Intern. J. NeuroScience, 117: 571-578, 2007

“The authors think that acupuncture application provides the patients with deterioration in the taste of smoking, decrease in desire of smoking, and the obstruction of psychological symptoms that appear as a result of smoking cessation.