Quitting Smoking with Acupuncture: A Good Idea?
You have certainly heard of acupuncture. This ancient form of medicine, practiced for centuries, is used to treat various health issues. Recently, it has also become a method to quit smoking. But concretely, how does this technique help to permanently give up cigarettes? What are its advantages and limitations? We explain everything in this article!
The Origin of Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a form of traditional Chinese medicine practiced for thousands of years to treat all sorts of illnesses. The first traces of its use date back to about 5,000 years ago. Since then, this technique has been adopted by other cultures. In Europe, it appeared in the 16th century. Today, acupuncture is commonly used as an alternative treatment to relieve pain, improve digestion, reduce stress and anxiety, and eliminate addictions. It has even been recognized as a medical science by the WHO since 1979.
What is the Principle of Acupuncture?
In Chinese medicine, acupuncture is based on the principle of restoring balance between Yin and Yang. These two concepts represent the two opposing and complementary forces that make up the universe. The harmony of these two forces creates the Qi, which is the vital energy that circulates in the body and helps maintain good health. Any disturbance between Yin and Yang can unbalance the Qi and cause diseases.
During a session, the acupuncturist inserts needles into specific points on the body along energy pathways called meridians. This can unblock the Qi and restore balance, which would promote healing.
How Does Acupuncture Work to Quit Smoking?
In recent years, acupuncture has become increasingly popular. It is used, for example, to treat addictions, particularly in the context of smoking cessation.
This treatment is believed to act on the brain by stimulating the nervous system and releasing endorphins, which are natural pain-relief hormones. This would help reduce the craving for cigarettes and diminish the symptoms associated with nicotine withdrawal.
The Advantages of Acupuncture for Quitting Smoking
Acupuncture for quitting smoking is an anti-smoking treatment that offers many advantages. First of all, since it releases endorphins, it helps to eliminate the unpleasant withdrawal symptoms caused by quitting smoking. It is precisely this feeling of withdrawal that drives smokers to smoke again.
Moreover, it is a natural treatment that does not require medication. It is therefore a good option for people who want to find an alternative to drug treatments.
Finally, by eliminating withdrawal symptoms, this anti-smoking method does not cause side effects. The patient does not feel the need to compensate for this craving: no weight gain, no compensation with alcohol or food, no mood swings…
The Limitations of Acupuncture for Quitting Smoking
While acupuncture can block the need to smoke, it does not eliminate the habits formed by the smoker. For the cessation to be effective, the patient must be motivated and remain so. For more effectiveness, heavy smokers should therefore also be accompanied and monitored after the sessions.
Moreover, it is an invasive practice. There is always a risk of infection or injury when needles are used, although it remains rare. It is therefore important to ensure that you find a reputable acupuncturist.
Furthermore, this therapy is not painless. Patients may feel slight pain when the needles are placed. Although it is bearable, the more sensitive individuals might be inconvenienced during the session.
Laser Auriculotherapy as an Alternative
What is it?
Auriculotherapy is a form of ear acupuncture. The practitioner stimulates specific points on the ear’s pavilion, considered a map of the human body, according to the area to be treated to restore energy balance. It was Paul Nogier, a doctor from Lyon, who developed this technique in the 1950s. Auriculotherapy has been officially recognized by the WHO since 1987.
In recent years, this therapy has also been used to help people quit smoking. To do this, more and more practitioners are swapping traditional needles for a professional soft laser. This laser targets the points on the ear related to tobacco addiction and disconnects the synapses to eliminate the sensation of withdrawal.
Why Prefer Laser Auriculotherapy?
This therapy has the advantages of acupuncture, without its drawbacks. Indeed, just like the traditional method, it eliminates the sensation of withdrawal, is natural, and does not cause side effects.
Moreover, unlike classical acupuncture, this treatment is not invasive. It poses no health risks. It is also completely painless. The patient feels no discomfort or pain during the session.
By visiting specialized centers, such as those at Reset Laser Institute, you are sure to be treated by professionals and also receive advice and personalized support. You are therefore less likely to lose your motivation, which remains essential for successful cessation.
Do You Want to Quit Smoking?
Reset Laser Institute helps you quit smoking with its laser auriculotherapy method. In just one hour-long session, you no longer feel the withdrawal associated with your cigarette addiction. We then support you in your new life. Additionally, our treatment is guaranteed for one year in case of relapse. Why wait?
Why Choose RESET Laser Institute
The best method to quit smoking
Specialist
Our therapists are all addiction experts and specialists in laser auriculotherapy cessation.
Effectiveness
Our success rate after one session is over 86%.
Painless
Non-invasive and painless, our therapy is accessible to everyone.
No Stress
You free yourself from addictions and quit smoking without weight gain, stress, or compensation.
Personalized Support
Since each patient is different, we offer personalized support after the session.
1-Year Guarantee
We guarantee our therapy for 1 year in case of relapse.