In Chinese Medicine, we view smoking as something that weakens the lungs, which, in turn, can disrupt other major organ systems within the body. When a patient is striving to quit smoking, we see the difficulty of this being in the accumulation of heat in the heart and stomach, which can lead to stagnant Liver Qi. This results in common withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, heart palpitations, irritability, food cravings, and disrupted sleep. By addressing these root issues through acupuncture and herbal formulas, we strive to clear heat and detoxify not only the lungs, but all affected organs in the body. 

We often use specific points on the outer ear to combat cravings associated with various addictions, including nicotine dependence. Our patients are sometimes provided with small ear seeds affixed to these points, allowing them to stimulate them when experiencing the urge to smoke. These seeds can also aid in managing food cravings, preventing overeating and weight gain when quitting smoking.

Acupuncture also has the effect of releasing endorphins, which offers a different type of relaxation compared to the dopamine rush associated with addiction. Endorphins contribute to a sense of well-being and alleviate pain, acting as an alternative to the reward system affected by dopamine, which leads to addiction. Because acupuncture also can  relieve emotional distress by stimulating neurochemical activity, we have seen that it reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression associated with smoking. The shift from dopamine dependence to increased endorphins and serotonin levels also aids in restoring restful sleep.