The principles behind utilizing acupuncture to help quit smoking are relatively simple. In terms of Oriental medicine, Qi (a vital force that animates the body) plays a major role. Tobacco smoke is energetically hot and puts Heat into your body – particularly the lungs. For a brief while, smokers sense a brief period of relaxation; this is due to the heat of the smoke moving any stagnant Qi in the body. The problem is that this relaxation effect is only temporary, and Qi stagnation will usually recur. This need to move the Qi ends up being reinforced leading to the vicious cycle of addiction. In the long term, the Heat damages the Yin of the Lungs which leads to an escalation of imbalance and disharmony in your body.

From this standpoint, smoking causes habituation in several areas:

• Tobacco has an herbal effect
• It is a cough suppressant
• It boosts self esteem

• The tars and nicotine in cigarettes are poisons.
• They must be detoxified daily
• The liver devotes energy to detoxify

• The brain keeps you oriented in your environment
• Patterns of stress release are maximized
• Pleasure centers in your body are focused on “rewarding” behavior

• The autonomic nervous system seeks normalcy
• Repeated patterns are coded in nervous algorithms
• Strategic action occurs automatically

Several acupuncture points are used to calm the body and spirit, thus replacing the short-term calming effect of the tobacco smoke. Acupuncture points are also used to clear the lungs and reduce cravings. They also reduce the autonomic nervous action and help to settle the Liver.

Source: Acupuncture for Smoking Cessation brochure, Woodwinds Natural Care Center.