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Acupuncture to Quit Smoking

Acupuncture has been used to treat addiction for many years. Curbing addiction, specifically when it comes to smoking, is not something that can be done overnight (often referred to as “quitting cold turkey”).

During the journey of quitting, there will be times when you think you won’t be able to stay smoke-free and want to give up. Considering acupuncture treatment when you are trying to quit can have great effects on helping you back on the road to better health. 

Contact us at Professional Acupuncture & Physical Therapy in Duluth Minnesota and learn how acupuncture can help you stay smoke-free for a healthier body, mind, and spirit.

Alternative treatments to Quit Smoking

Cayenne Pepper

Cayenne pepper can lower cravings for cigarettes by lowering the respiratory response to tobacco and other chemicals found in cigarettes. Adding the pepper to a glass of water every day can help decrease your desire for a smoke.

Lime

Lime has been known to be a natural alternative to nicotine gum for quitting smoking. Squeeze lime into water throughout the day to help lower cravings. Lime also has an anti-infective agent to help the body’s immune defense.

Fava beans

Because fava beans contain L-dopa, which your body converts dopamine, these beans have been known to reduce nicotine cravings. Nicotine has addictive properties because it also releases dopamine in the brain, by finding alternatives that have the same effects, your nicotine cravings will be reduced. There are many recipes that can be made with fava beans and are easily available at the grocery store.

Massage

Many people who are trying to quit smoking experience anxiety. For smokers who have smoked regularly for years, massage may be an effective option in reducing anxiety associating with quitting.

Acupuncture

Research has shown that acupuncture not only reduces cravings but can also reduce symptoms of withdrawal such as irritability and jitters. Acupuncture works by targeting specific acupuncture points on the body that help return the body back to its natural energy flow, resulting in better overall health.

An acupuncture point specifically used to help the incessant urge to smoke is called “Tim Mee” and is located on the inside of the arm. This point helps change thev body’s perception of nicotine. This point combined with others can help reduce cravings.

Another Acupressure point is Conception Vessel 17 (CV 17). This point can be found in the center of the sternum and is used to reduce stress and anxiety, as well as strengthen the lungs.

There are also simple acupressure techniques to cope with cravings such as ear massages which is one way you can cope with cravings at home. Doing this releases endorphins (which are natural painkillers).

If you have tried many of the above methods to try and quit smoking, reach out to us at (218) 724-3400 and schedule an appointment! We can create an individualized treatment plan to get you on the right track to being smoke-free.

Research Update: TCM and Cold Prevention

A study published by the Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine concludes acupuncture treatments can indeed help treat the common cold. The study followed 187 participants based on the onset of when the cold occurred. The participants were divided into two groups. The first group reported an onset time of cold symptoms within 36 hours and the second group reported an onset of symptoms greater than 36 hours. Both groups showed significant decreases in symptoms, as well as cold duration. This study demonstrates how receiving acupuncture treatments can shorten the length of time a person deals with the common cold and its symptoms.

Everybody has suffered from the common cold at some point along this journey called life. The common cold is an acute viral infection that affects the throat and nasal passages. Symptoms of a cold may include headaches, fatigue, a sore throat, nasal congestion, sneezing, a runny nose and coughing. With the normal progression of a cold, the throat symptoms, such as coughing, tend to be worse around the fifth day, while the nasal symptoms are nearing the end of their duration. Overall, the symptoms of the common cold tend to last about seven to 10 days. The typical treatment for a cold is to make sure you are getting plenty of sleep, taking in enough fluids and using steam to break up the mucus in the nasal passages. Because the common cold is caused by a viral infection, the virus must be allowed to run its course, while the symptoms are merely managed.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) takes a different approach though. It utilizes modalities like acupuncture, cupping and herbal formulas that can dramatically decrease the severity of symptoms and time that somebody suffers from a cold.

The practice of acupuncture is supposed to be used as preventive medicine. Not to say acupuncture can’t be used to treat already existing ailments, because it can, and it works very well in this capacity, but isn’t it better to avoid getting sick than to wait until the ailment is already affecting you? This is where acupuncture can help. Regular acupuncture treatments can increase your immunity, which will help fight off any disease, including the common cold. Acupuncture also helps decrease stress which can be a key factor in any disease. Studies indicate when the body is relaxed and not stressed, the immune system functions more efficiently.

Cupping, another technique utilized in TCM, helps boost the immune system. Cupping creates negative pressure that suctions the skin into the cup. This action causes the cells in the body to develop a greater number of receptors on the surface that can better respond to an enzyme known as heme oxygenase 1. This enzyme acts as an antioxidant that protects your body against harmful elements like the common cold virus.

TCM also uses herbs to prevent and treat many ailments, including the common cold. For instance, herbs like licorice root, also known as Gan Cao in TCM, can be used to treat a cough. It also has the ability to boost the immune system and help get rid of mucus in the respiratory tract. Cinnamon, or Gui Zhi, is another commonly used herb that helps ward off the common cold.

With all this evidence, it makes perfect sense to start using Traditional Chinese Medicine as a method of preventing the common cold.

Immune-Boosting Tea Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 teaspoon echinacea root
  • 1 teaspoon dried astragalus root
  • 1 teaspoon dried elderberries
  • 1 inch fresh ginger root, sliced
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 2 cups water
  • Honey (optional for sweetness)

Instructions:

  1. In a small saucepan, add water and bring it to a boil.
  2. Once the water reaches a rolling boil, reduce the heat to low.
  3. Add echinacea root, astragalus root, elderberries, ginger root slices, and cinnamon stick to the saucepan.
  4. Allow the ingredients to simmer on low heat for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors and beneficial properties to infuse into the water.
  5. After simmering, remove the saucepan from heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
  6. Strain the tea into a cup or teapot, discarding the herbs and spices.
  7. If desired, add honey for a touch of sweetness and stir well.
  8. Enjoy the immune-boosting tea while it’s warm and soothing.

Note: Feel free to adjust the quantities of ingredients according to your taste preferences. You can also experiment with adding other immune-boosting herbs like rosehips, lemon balm, or thyme to customize the tea blend to your liking.

Enjoy sipping on this nourishing tea as part of a balanced and healthy lifestyle to support your immune system. Stay well!

Immune-Boosting Congee Recipe

Congee, a type of rice porridge, is a nourishing and easily digestible dish that can be beneficial for supporting the immune system. Here is a simple congee recipe with immune-boosting ingredients:

Ingredients

  • 1 cup white rice (jasmine or long-grain)
  • 6 cups water or vegetable broth
  • 1 small chicken breast – or 1 cup diced mushrooms (vegetarian option)
  • 1 inch fresh ginger, grated
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon tamari or soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as carrots, peas and spinach)
  • Optional toppings: chopped green onions, cilantro, sliced mushrooms, and a drizzle of chili oil

Instructions:

  1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain and set aside
  2. In a large pot, bring the water or vegetable broth to a boil.
  3. Add the rinsed rice, chicken breast or diced mushrooms, grated ginger, and minced garlic to the pot.
  4. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and let simmer for about 1 to 1.5 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking – if using chicken breast, remove it from the pot after cooling, shred it with a fork and return it to the congee – if using mushrooms, let them cook throughout the simmering process.
  5. As the congee thickens, add tamari or soy sauce and sesame oil. Stir well to incorporate flavors.
  6. Add the mixed vegetables to the pot and continue cooking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
  7. Remove from heart and let the congee cool slightly.
  8. Serve the immune-boosting congee hot and garnish with your choice of toppings.

Enjoy this comforting and immune-supporting congee as a nourishing meal. Feel free to customize the recipe by adding herbs or spices like turmeric, black pepper, or garlic powder for additional flavor and immune-boosting benefits.

Remember to adapt the recipe to your dietary preferences and consult with Heidi and her team for personal advice, especially if you have health conditions.

Acupressure Points for Pneumonia & Common Cold

Acupressure, a traditional Chinese medicine practice, involves applying pressure to specific points on the body to promote healing and relieve symptoms. While it’s not a substitute for medical treatment, especially for serious conditions like pneumonia, acupressure may be used as a complementary therapy to help manage symptoms.

Here are some acupressure points that are commonly recommended for respiratory issues, which may be relevant to both viral and bacterial pneumonia:

1. LU-1 (ZHONGFU)

Located on the chest, just below the clavicle. This point is believed to help with breathing difficulties and lung health.

2. LU-5 (CHIZE)

Found on the elbow crease, on the thumb side. It’s said to be effective in clearing phlegm and easing cough.

3. LU-7 (LIEQUE)

Located above the wrist on the inner arm. It’s often used for relieving symptoms like cough,
headache, and sore throat.

4. ST-36 (ZUSANLI)

Located below the knee. This point is thought to strengthen overall energy and immunity, which can be beneficial in recovery.

5. CV-17 (DANZHONG)

Situated in the center of the chest. This point is commonly used for respiratory health, including easing breathing difficulties and cough.

6. BL-13 (FEISHU)

Located near the spine, directly opposite LU1. This point is specifically associated with lung health and may help ease breathing.

7. PC-6 (NEIGUAN)

Found on the inner arm, a few inches above the wrist. It’s known for its effectiveness in relieving nausea and improving chest discomfort.

Acupressure can be a supportive tool for overall wellness and symptom management, but it’s essential to prioritize and follow medical advice for serious health conditions.

Important Considerations:

Consult a Professional: It’s advisable to consult with a healthcare provider or a certified acupressure practitioner, especially when dealing with serious health conditions like pneumonia.

Gentle Approach: Apply pressure gently, especially on sensitive areas or if you’re new to acupressure.

Avoid Overexertion: If any point feels too painful, reduce pressure or stop.

Not a Substitute for Medical Treatment: Acupressure should not replace conventional medical treatment, especially for conditions like pneumonia which can be life-threatening if not properly treated.

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