I have listened to those, standing free of addictions captive chains, relate remarkable transition moments and even spiritual awakenings.  These powerful moments of dramatic transition seem to parallel the biblical story of Saul who once persecuted the people of God only to one day experience an abruptly sensational life changing event.  For those whose quitting quest has not been so fortunate it is important to accept that individuals with sensational experiences are still faced with the daily choice.  A large part of conquering addiction is laying out a plan for one’s day and filling it with things that will assist the conqueror in resisting.  Whether your fortune has afforded you a seemingly instant release or not, there are two research backed tools that can provide much needed assistance in putting away addiction for good. 

The search for etiological or developmental patterns contributing to addictive behavior has largely remained a fruitless task.  Though causative factors elude our discovery, experts have established some basic principles that form the basis in identifying addictive behaviors.  First, when activity stops symptoms of withdrawal must present.  Second, the length of time spent in an activity or the amount of a substance consumed must increase, demonstrating tolerance of and an increased demand for more.   Third, the substance or activity becomes an all consuming need.  This correlates closely with the former as the all consuming need expresses itself more forcefully when the availability, or supply, is low.

While more than 50 million Americans smoke, nearly 70% report they want to quit.  The difficulty of giving up the nicotine habit has been equated to the powerful grip of substances as heroin, cocaine, or alcohol.  The harmful effects of tobacco use cause 443,000 premature deaths a year.  Most smokers make several attempts before reaching a successful conclusion or giving in entirely.  If you have never smoked yet struggle with an inkling of curiosity, your best bet is not to start!  If you have already started and are looking to quit, take hope, for some powerfully simple and natural treatments may make the difference in putting this habit behind you.

The American Society of Addiction Medicine has identified nicotine dependence as the most common form of chemical dependence in the United States.  They recommended a policy that health care delivery systems should provide treatment of nicotine dependence for patients.  Chinese medicine is one such health care delivery system that has taken the charge and returned some impressive results.  

Harvard University scientists have recommended the herb known as ge gen or kudzu to give up smoking because it contains the isoflavones known as daidzin and daidzein.  Isoflavones are a compound related to flavonoids that exist naturally.  The more common buzz word for compounds that fall into a larger umbrella category is antioxidants.  These antioxidant substances actually reduce the desire for nicotine.  But guess what, these powerful antioxidants are proving beneficial in other addictive behaviors such as alcohol and even sugar consumption.  

Nicotine is received into the body through the self development of specific nicotinic receptors.  When the receptors are empty, craving results.  When receptors are filled, satiation is achieved… momentarily.  It is the vacancy of these receptors that produces the defeating symptoms of withdrawal.  However, the isoflavones  of ge gen or kudzu, have demonstrated effectiveness in occupying  these receptors therefore acting as a non addictive natural replacement of nicotine.  

Typical precursors for promoting addiction are nervousness, anxiety, and irritability.  Chinese Medicine with both herbs and acupuncture efficiently balances these emotions therefore reducing cravings that prolong addiction.  A Chinese Medicine practitioner will review all your symptoms and gather the necessary information to paint an appropriate picture of your current state of health.  In a study from Norway, acupuncture treatments were shown to significantly reduce the desire for smoking up to five years after the initial treatment.  Additionally, participants in the study reported that cigarettes tasted worse and their taste for tobacco was significantly reduced.  Acupuncture does not appear to be a magic bullet or cure all for addiction, but appears to make conquering addiction more manageable.

Whether you have had your powerful transition moment or not, acupuncture will prove a useful tool to enable you to stand in your power and conquer the addiction you face. With a unique combination of natural tools Chinese Medicine provides a viable primary option for managing and conquering addiction.  For more information about how herbs or acupuncture will assist you on your way speak with a natural health physician with a background in Chinese Medicine.