Smoking cigarettes is one of the most difficultaddictionsto overcome.
It’s only natural that you want to try anything that might help you quit.
Many people try natural remedies, but not all are effective or safe.
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However, some studies do show promising results for some.
Be sure to talk to your doctor to ensure any alternative treatment you try is safe for you.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture may be effective for helping peoplequit smoking.
People receive acupuncture for various conditions such as chronic pain and migraines.
Acupuncture is generally safe; however, tissue injury may occur if needles are inserted improperly.
If the needles aren’t sanitized, there is also a risk of infection.
Can Acupuncture Help You Stop Smoking Naturally?
It may help patients cope with emotional distress andtrauma.
Hypnosis is generally considered a safe treatment when performed by a trained therapist or professional.
Participants who underwent hypnotherapy had a 29% success rate of abstaining from cigarettesafter one year of quitting.
Those who did counseling had a 28% success rate of smoking abstinence, so the results were similar.
In another study, hypnotherapy was compared withnicotine replacement therapies (NRTs).
CBT has been shown to help improve self-control when it comes to resisting the urge to smoke cigarettes.
St. John’s Wort
St. John’s is an herb that has been used medicinally for centuries.
Whether it is effective for these conditions is up for debate.
St. John’s wort is not recommended for people who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Be sure to talk to your doctor before taking this or any other herbal supplement.
However, nicotine gum was better at reducing cravings for cigarettes.
It’s not known for sure why lime juice may help with cravings.
Limes also have antibacterial properties which help to restore the immune system of people who smoke.
Further studies are needed to fully understand how lime juice can lead to smoking cessation.
It is also in the FDA’s Poisonous Plant Database.
In larger doses, it can even cause death.
Children and people who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not take lobelia.
Lifestyle Changes
There are also lifestyle changesfrom diet to sleepthat can help you quit smoking.
Studies find that people who smoke tend to have less nutritious diets than people who’ve never smoked.
A healthy diet may help with smoking cessation.
double-check you’re drinking enough water.Staying hydrated is a great preventative measure to take to manage cravings.
Limit your intake ofcaffeineandsugar.
One study links caffeinated beverages and sugary beverages (like energy drinks) with increased smoking.
Deep breathingandmeditationhave been linked with smoking cessation.Also, be sure you’re getting enoughphysical activityandenough sleep.
Taking care of your body and fulfilling these basic needs can go a long way in supporting smoking cessation.
Nicotine replacement therapy can be helpful.
Medications such asZyban (bupropion)andChantix (varenicline)can also help you quit successfully.
Counseling, support groups, and other resources can support your efforts and make quitting easier.
The good news is that the health benefits of quitting begin within hours of having your last cigarette.
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