Famous in traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture is a gentle and natural therapy often used by smokers seeking to quit. This ancient practice is frequently considered an alternative to conventional medical treatments and nicotine substitutes, but is it truly effective? What are the long-term results for those who try it? Is there a more effective method to overcome tobacco addiction?
As experts specializing in smoking-related issues, we’ve explored the topic in depth and are here to reveal everything you need to know about using acupuncture to quit smoking.
Acupuncture for quitting smoking
Acupuncture for quitting smoking is a treatment method used in traditional Chinese medicine. Its goal is to restore and promote the flow of vital energy present in everyone to address issues caused by blockages in this energy. To achieve this, the acupuncturist stimulates specific anatomical points by inserting thin needles into the skin. These reflex points are located along meridians, which are pathways for the flow of energy.
Generally painless, this technique is considered part of alternative medicine and can be effective in addressing both physical and psychological issues. It is particularly useful in the context of smoking cessation. In this case, the stimulation of acupuncture points aims to reduce the urge to smoke a cigarette.
How does acupuncture reduce the desire to smoke?
There are several ways acupuncture can help with smoking cessation. One method is the Chiapi technique, which involves placing needles on the wings of the nose. This is known as rhinofaciopuncture. The goal of this method is to block the neurological need to consume tobacco, thereby reducing withdrawal symptoms.
Another way to address nicotine addiction through acupuncture is auriculotherapy. In this approach, the therapist focuses on various points located in the ear. It is also possible to stimulate a point in the wrist area or other points that help alleviate mood disturbances or stress associated with quitting smoking.
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Is acupuncture effective for quitting smoking?
When performed appropriately, acupuncture for smoking cessation is generally painless and safe. However, this therapeutic approach is not recognized by medical authorities, and its effectiveness is not officially validated by the scientific community.
A review of several studies conducted by the Cochrane Collaboration shows that the benefits of acupuncture are primarily evident in the short term. In the long term, the success rate is no higher than that of individuals attempting to quit smoking without any specific support. Six months after treatment, most patients who underwent this type of therapy appear to have relapsed.
In summary, acupuncture can be a complementary aid to support tobacco cessation efforts, but it is not sufficient on its own to permanently quit smoking without additional measures.
laserOstop®: an alternative to acupuncture for quitting smoking
Demonstrating particularly high effectiveness in reducing the need for tobacco, the laserOstop® method is based on the same principles as acupuncture but uses photobiomodulation instead of needles. Our CE-certified and TÜV-approved anti-smoking equipment, used exclusively in our specialized smoking cessation centres, primarily targets physical dependence on cigarettes and helps the body eliminate nicotine.
laserOstop® boasts a large number of satisfied clients worldwide. As harmless as acupuncture, our methodology is entirely non-invasive, using only light to stimulate energy points in the ear. Many of our clients report positive experiences and successful outcomes, as reflected in thousands of Google reviews. Its benefits go further, as it also helps reduce food cravings that often accompany withdrawal, eliminating the risk of weight gain—a common concern for smokers trying to quit.
With locations in Canada, France, Switzerland, and other countries around the world, laserOstop® centres have already successfully helped hundreds of thousands of people quit smoking worldwide.
