Acupuncture to Stop Smoking
Acupuncture and Hypnotherapy are the two most common alternative therapies for those who want to stop smoking. However, while hypnotherapy attempts to restore emotional equilibrium and ease psychological withdrawal, acupuncture works to rebuild your body's inner balance.
A relatively inexpensive way to stop smoking, acupuncture also has a host of other health benefits, many of which have yet to be fully researched. Studies suggest that the symptoms of osteoarthritis, menstrual cramps and even asthma may be eased with acupuncture.
What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese remedy, dating back at least 3,000 years. Traditional Chinese medicine takes a much more holistic approach to the body, rather than zeroing in on specific symptoms and ailments as Western medicine does. For example, Acupuncture on one area of the body may cure an ailment in a completely different part.
The theory of Acupuncture tells us that energy flows around the body in specific patterns. Although there is plenty of evidence that Acupuncture works, science has yet to discover the exact nature of these flows, which are commonly termed 'Qi'. Acupuncture works by correcting imbalances in your Qi and restoring your body to equilibrium.
So what is involved in the acupuncture treatment? Tiny needles are inserted into specific parts of the body. They are left for some time, and sometimes stimulated by hand or by gentle electronic pulses. In case the needles sound daunting, don't worry! They are never deep enough to hurt, in fact they are so tiny that you often won't even feel them being inserted.
How does Acupuncture help with smoking?
One of the primary uses for Acupuncture is after surgery or chemotherapy. When the body has experienced such a great disruption, Acupuncture is very effective for restoring balance and ending such side effects as nausea, headaches and vomiting.
Nicotine withdrawal is a disruption for the body in much the same way, so Acupuncture is a great help for smokers struggling with their physical withdrawal symptoms. The imbalances that lead to cravings for cigarettes or food can be reduced or even stopped by some well placed Acupuncture needles.
Are there any side effects of Acupuncture?
The great news about acupuncture is that is is now regulated by the US Food and Drug Administration. That means there are minimum standards for the hygiene of acupuncture needles. Acupuncture is a very safe procedure, but be sure to go to a licensed professional.
Side effects from acupuncture almost never result from the procedure itself, but rather the use of unhygienic needles. These can lead to infections, or even the transfer of blood-born diseases like hepatitis. Be sure that you use an establishment that does not re-use needles, and that operates in a clean and hygienic environment.