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Nicotine
Withdrawal
Stopping inhalation of nicotine (which is the addictive substance in
tobacco) causes discomfort and physical side effects in most people.
What to look for
Withdrawal symptoms in
cigarette users include the following;
Withdrawal from nicotine is
characterised by the above symptoms. Nicotine creates a chemical dependency, so that the
body develops a need for a certain level of nicotine at all times. Unless that level is
maintained, the body will begin to go through withdrawal.
Giving up nicotine is not
very pleasant for most people as a consequence of the withdrawal symptoms, however they
are usually completely gone in six months.
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Causes
The symptoms of nicotine
withdrawal are responses to the removal of a substance on which the body has become
dependent.
Traditional Treatment
Your doctor may recommend a
smoking cessation program such nicotine replacement packs and may also prescribe
nicotine-based chewing gum to help you through withdrawal. These aids are only provided to
help you wean yourself off smoking, not as a substitute for nicotine.
Alternative/Natural
Treatments
Alternative therapies can
offer support to tobacco users trying to quit their habit. Behaviour modification
techniques that may help include meditation and guided imagery.
Herbal Therapies - Lobelia
(Lobelia inflata) has actions similar to nicotine but is gentler and longer lasting. It is
often used by medical herbalists in conjunction with ephedra (Ephedra sinica), a
stimulant, to help tobacco users quit. Always see a professional as these herbs may have
side effects that are serious. Lobelia
(Lobelia inflata) has actions similar to nicotine but is gentler and longer lasting. It is
often used by medical herbalists in conjunction with ephedra (Ephedra sinica), a
stimulant, to help tobacco users quit. Always see a professional as these herbs may have
side effects that are serious.
Herbalists also often
recommend the following herbs to calm the nervous system during withdrawal - chamomile
(Matricaria recutita), hops (Humulus lupulus), and valerian (Valeriana officinalis).
See Our Herbal Page
Dietary
Considerations
Supplements of Vitamin A, B complex, C and E have
been successful in helping people recover from smoking. Also supplements of garlic, Echinacea, valerian.
Personal Care
Most programs will
suggest you analyse your habit and the reasons why you smoke. These are beneficial as they
offer insights into the underlying causes of your habit.
It is also a good idea to
pick a specific day to stop smoking - at least a couple of weeks in advance and tell all
your friends and family of your intention. They will be invaluable support and you will
also feel obliged to give up smoking as you have told everybody of your intentions.
Your success depends upon
your motivation and will to give up. Talk to yourself often and tell yourself how good you
will eventually feel with a healthy body and mind. As well as this tell yourself how much
money you will save as a result of not smoking - this money can go towards a luxury item
you have been denying yourself.
Prevention
The best preventive step is
not to start using tobacco and to educate your children to its dangers.
When to seek further
professional advice
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