Nicotine Addiction Natural Treatments

Nicotine Addiction Natural Treatments

According to the U.S. Library of Medicine, smoking causes approximately 87 percent of lung cancer deaths in the United States. Nicotine use also contributes to many other health problems, including stroke, cataracts and blood vessel disease. Although giving up nicotine is very difficult, there are natural treatments that may help.

Massage Techniques

• According to the Mayo Clinic, massage can help relieve anxiety and stress caused by giving up nicotine. During the massage, a physical therapist or massage therapist will manipulate the soft tissues in the body, which relaxes muscle tension. Massage can also release natural painkillers in your body and ramp up the immune system, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Hypnosis Therapies

• Although hypnosis isn't completely understood, it may help you quit smoking, according to the Mayo Clinic. This therapy manipulates your state of mind, allowing you to feel more focused, calm and open to suggestions. The goal of these treatments is to give you more control over your behavior.

  A hypnosis session lasts up to 60 minutes and it may take several sessions to get rid of nicotine addiction. Normal activities can resume after the session has ended, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Supplements to Avoid

• Lobelia supplements have been researched since the 1930s for nicotine addiction. A review of the supplement in 1972 found there wasn't any evidence that taking Lobelia could help nicotine addiction. Also, the Mayo Clinic reports that Lobelia can be toxic and cause side effects such as vomiting, seizures and low blood pressure. Because of the toxic side effects, the Mayo Clinic doesn't recommend Lobelia for nicotine addiction.

Other Nicotine Addiction Tips

• According to the Mayo Clinic, writing goals for giving up nicotine can help you kick the habit. Also, share your goals with family and friends and ask them to continue to encourage and support your goals. When giving up nicotine addiction, start by delaying your first cigarette of the day and try to cut back slowly. When you get the urge to use nicotine, distract yourself with physical activity and continue to cut back a little more each day. The Mayo Clinic suggests asking your doctor to recommend a tobacco treatment specialist in your area