|
|
|
Many people enjoy smoking and find it difficult to stop without some form of help. Auriculotherapy (Ear Acupuncture) is one of the treatments we use in our medical centre that has proved successful in suppressing the desire for nicotine, as well as relieving withdrawal symptoms of nervousness, insomnia, irritation and depression. Most people experience a feeling of well being and self confidence shortly after having acupuncture treatment, but it should be remembered that acupuncture is not an overnight miracle cure that can stop people from smoking against their own wishes. To be completely successful, the patient must have a genuine desire to stop smoking. It is not however, essential for them to believe in acupuncture in order to give up smoking when treated. HOW DOES ACUPUNCTURE WORK? The treatment consists of stimulating various acupuncture points in the body and/or ear. This is done with a mild electric current and/or traditional needle insertion. Some of the points deal with the addictive nature of nicotine while others help to detoxify the system. Following this, three or more beads are fitted into the ear. These beads are sterile and disposed of at the end of treatment. They act as a counter-irritant to nicotine, improving breathing and having a general overall calming effect. Gentle pressure
applied to the beads causes the body to release substances called endorphines
into the blood stream. These are naturally occurring pain-killers which the
body manufactures and which have an effect not dissimilar to that of morphine
(hence the name). Whilst endorphines play a role in the action of the beads
their release is unlikely to be the whole story, a it does not explain why
beads will not work unless they are in exactly the right place. For example,
a bead in the lung point will not help indigestion, any more than one in the
digestive tract will help a smoker. The great advantage
of acupuncture is that it has no side effects, as unlike nicotine chewing gum
or patches, no drug is entering the patient’s system. Treatment is
aimed at ridding the body of nicotine as quickly as possible, thereby
reducing physical craving. THE FIRST FEW DAYS As soon as the desire to smoke is felt, the beads
should be lightly pressed with the fingers or thumb whilst simultaneously
taking four deep breaths. Breathe in slowly through the nose and out through
the mouth. If the urge is still felt after this exercise, repeat the method
again. Initially, it may be necessary to carry this out quite often, but the
need will decrease as the course progresses. Normally you must lightly press
the beads three times a day, at GENERAL CLEANLINESS AND CARE OF THE EAR Care should be taken not to disturb the beads or plasters. To clean the ear, lightly wipe with a small piece of damp cotton wool. It is possible to wash hair and swim but preferable to avoid soaking the plasters for prolonged periods. VITAMIN C Research suggest than Vitamin C may help to rid the system of nicotine. Fresh orange juice and plenty of fresh fruit will help this detoxifying process. SOME SUGGESTIONS Try to change habits like sitting down with a cup of tea or coffee. Go for a walk instead, or drink orange juice. In the initial stages it is also advisable to avoid the atmosphere of bars. Clean your teeth often. A fresh mouth will make smoking less attractive. Attach deodorant or room fresheners to your phone, car or favourite chair, the different fragrance will help to remind you not to smoke. Save the money you would have
spent on cigarettes with a view to buying something very special. |