The comments below reflect the personal experiences and opinions of readers and do not represent medical advice or the views of this website. The information shared has not been evaluated by the FDA and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease or health condition. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for medical concerns.
Ginger Root
Posted by Scott (Pen Argyl, Pa) on 08/26/2013
★★★★★
Nothing worked for me until I ran across something by accident. I'd found that ginger helped cure my dog's lymphatic leukemia and works on many other cancers as well. My family has an extensive history of cancer to I started taking it myself as a preventative measure. Since then I've noticed many other benefits from it and researching it on the net confirmed it was the ginger responsible for several of those benefits.
Among those benefits was a massive decrease in the urge to smoke. It turns out that ginger contains niacin which flushes nicotine out of the body. Nicotine is the addictive ingredient in tobacco. Obtaining the niacin with fresh ginger seems to be more effective than supplments but that's just my own opinion.
The only problem is that ginger is also a stimulant and will keep you up nights so don't take it if you're planning on going to sleep in 4 hours or so.
Detox After Smoking
Posted by Vanessa (Sydney) on 06/25/2023
★★★★★
The best is Mullein. It can be used as a tea, taken as a tincture or in vegan capsules. Absolutely incredible how it literally expels huge amounts of toxic black “gunk”, after many years of smoking.
I take it every day atm, as I'm using medical cannabis for insomnia and to stimulate my appetite.
M's Quit Smoking Technique
Posted by M (St.L., Mo, Usa) on 05/03/2010
★★★★★
When I quit smoking, several things helped me. A friend said "Don't worry about it, the smoking will quit you when it's ready."
So I quit "trying" to make myself quit. Then I noticed that I was saving up reasons to quit, like collecting shells or rocks. There were too many to keep track of mentally, so I began to write them down. I had NO plans to use them as leverage. I just wanted to see how many I could find. When I had found 144 reasons to quit, something must have clicked for me. One morning I looked in the mirror and said aloud, "I'm not going to smoke anymore." It was an all- of -me- decision. I wasn't dragging the reluctant side of myself into it.
Each time I thought of smoking over the next couple of weeks, I told myself I could smoke if I wanted to, but the days, hours and minutes I had amassed as a non-smoker were mounting up and would be a shame to waste, since I had wanted to quit for a long time.
This reasoning process helped me through the temptation times, along with a deep breathing pattern that just "came to me". When I took THREE DEEP BREATHS, holding one after the other as long as I could stand the pain in my lungs before gasping for air, it took the urge to smoke away, (because I felt sick and dizzy, probably.)
After a few short weeks I didn't want to smoke anymore. That was such a long time ago, it seems like I never smoked.
Ellis' Quit Smoking Technique
Posted by Mama To Many (Tn) on 07/13/2017
Dear I.m. trying,
Have you looked in to Lobelia? Several on this site mention it being a help for the physical addiction.
Also, see this page for ideas for natural pain relief:
https://www.earthclinic.com/remedies/natural-alternatives-to-opiates.html
Epsom salt baths are good for detox and relaxing.
If evening is when you relax with wine and cigarettes, you will need to find a substitute for them - walking, going to the gym, cooking.
Sunflower seeds in the shell that you have to crack open to eat can give some oral and manual satisfaction.
Hang in there. My mother in law quit many times, but the last time she quit was 25 years ago and it stuck.
~Mama to Many~
Quit Smoking Cold Turkey
Posted by Tiberius (Oklahoma) on 02/06/2024
★★★★★
TLDR: Keep cigarettes on hand as a way to keep yourself comfortable in the knowledge that you can have one if you "need" it (you won't need it.). Keep your mind and hands busy. (Drawing, painting, model kits, studying, tinkering, etc.. anything that makes you think and keeps your hands busy).
Let me preface by saying, I was not some special case that somehow was not "as addicted as you".. For a long time, on some level I had fooled myself into believing I couldn't quit cold turkey and assumed people that did, were just not as addicted as I was. Nonsense.
I smoked for about 10 years. About a pack and a half per day. I was as addicted as anyone else. I'd smoke as soon as I woke up, a meal wasnt complete until I had a cigarette after, a car ride didnt begin til I had a cigarette in hand. And I'd move heaven and earth to get a pack of cigarettes if I was out, I'd get stressed and feel panicked and anxious if I didnt have cigarettes or money to get them. Cigarettes were seemingly as essential as food, water, and air for me at one point. And if I had to choose between a good meal and a pack of cigarettes, I probably would have taken the cigarettes because food is a lot easier to come by.
So how did I do it? The key things, for me, were 1 keeping cigarettes on hand.. I had almost a whole pack of cigarettes in the glove box of my car. They were a security blanket for me. If I didnt have them and the option to go grab one, then I would have been stressed and panicked that I couldnt get one if I "needed" one. So It was always my choice in the moment not to smoke. That was a HUGE one for me. As before when I would try to quit, first thing I'd do is try to remove the option of smoking from myself by tossing them out.
Next, keeping my hands and mind busy. The day after I decided to quit, I just happened to have gotten a new grill. I was nearly done putting the thing together when I realized, I didnt have a single thought or craving for a cigarette for the entire time I was working on the grill, which altogether took about an hour. Considering I hadnt had a cigarette since the day before, that was significant. And so, I found ways to keep my mind and hands busy. I did a lot of drawing, painting, model kits, studying, etc.
After a few days, it gets easier. After a couple of weeks, it gets a lot easier. After that, you're pretty well in the clear. I think cold turkey is probably the best method, as others such as nicotine patches or gum, just prolong the process by keeping you dependent on nicotine... not to mention the extra money.
Delay the First Cig of the Day
Posted by 2q&learn (Southern Ca, Usa) on 09/16/2018 148 posts
One hasn't actually quit smoking until the very last puff ... so ... you temporarily stopped smoking several times ... and hopefully have fully quit it, this time! (:
Licorice Root Extract
Posted by Katzie (Cancun, Mexico) on 11/18/2024
I smoked a pack a day for 25 yrs. In fact, I was so hard-core that I would be lighting my first smoke of the day before I even fully woke up; my friends were amazed. Well, I finally heard about Allan Carr's "The Easy Way to Stop Smoking". I bought it on a Wednesday (thinking it probably wouldn't work) and was smoke-free forever by Friday night when I finished it. I hated smoking and could feel it beginning to kill me. It's also a tremendous waste of money. When ya think about it, Carr was right when he said that we really only enjoyed our first cigarette of the day. Carr was a heavy smoker in England, who invented The Easy Way. The book is not full of fear facts; it just completely changes your mindset. There was, however, one interesting factoid in the book: if you were to take a cigarette and dunk it in a glass of water, and later drink the whole glass, it could kill you. Wowzers, eh? My b-i-l quit cold turkey and 15 yrs later he still has cravings. Been the same time for me and I had zero cravings; I could never willingly slowly destroy myself again. I turned my back on smoking and put it in my rearview mirror. Please buy the book! It worked for every person I lent it to as well.
Recommended Books
Posted by Kathleen (CT) on 03/10/2021
★★★★★
I quit many years ago after reading Allen Carr's book. I had tried so many times before. I have never ever have any desire to start smoking again.
Dried Ginseng
Posted by Alfred (Bangkok, Thailand) on 04/01/2010
I have never smoked.. but over the years smoking bothered me.. I did a lot of looking.. how to stop smoking.. I came across the following.. Its not difficult to do and not expensive.. I think worth a try.. Dried Ginseng..take small piece, chew.. swallow the juice, and swallow the Ginseng piece when it gets too small to chew... The article said.. NO withdrawal pain.. My opinion.. Ginseng is healthy.. can not hurt.. But maybe will work..Good luck..
Alfred
Ellis' Quit Smoking Technique
Posted by Mr. Ree (Usa) on 09/28/2014
Zimjace, Ask yourself this. Am I going to wait until a Dr.tells me I have cancer... then stop smoking?
Ellis' Quit Smoking Technique
Posted by Wendy (Columbus, Oh) on 07/14/2017
Lots of people, including me 11 years ago, have had great success (with absolutely NO desire to smoke again!) reading the book "
The Easy Way to Stop Smoking", by Allen Carr. YOU DO NOT HAVE TO STOP COLD-TURKEY!
Here's a synopsis from Amazon: "Allen Carr's innovative Easyway method—which he discovered after his own 100-cigarette-a-day habit nearly drove him to despair—has helped millions kick smoking without feeling anxious and deprived. That's because he helps smokers discover the psychological reasons behind their dependency, explains in detail how to handle the withdrawal symptoms, shows them how to avoid situations when temptation might become too strong, and enables them to stay smoke-free. Carr discusses such issues as nicotine addiction; the social “brainwashing” that encourages smoking; the false belief that a cigarette relieves stress; the role boredom plays in sabotaging efforts to stop; and the main reasons for failure. With this proven program, smokers will be throwing away their packs for good."
Licorice Root Extract
Posted by Bob (Murphy, Nc) on 02/08/2017
★★★★★
Licorice Root Extract for Smoking Addiction
First, nicotine is in no way addicting, contrary to the patch and gum commercials. I've taken the nicotine lozenges, and had no problem quitting them immediately. In my opinion, there are at least two reasons for smoking. One is when you start in High School, or whenever young. That one is easier to quit, because you started to imitate others, or someone started you, not for your own reasons. The second kind is when you are older usually. This cause of smoking is for self treatment because you have some kind of pain, anguish or other psychological problem. With that kind, you won't quit until your problem goes away. But some relief can come by using licorice root extract, without the drug being taken out, as in de-glycerized, DGL, products. The drug in it removes the desire to smoke, from the very first day. So plan on using it when you are ready to quit smoking. The only side effect can be blurry vision. Don't take it before bedtime as it can keep you awake.
Licorice Root Extract
Posted by Art (California) on 11/17/2024 2325 posts
Hi Aliza,
A long time friend was able to quit smoking by going to a hypnotherapist. She has been a non smoker for over 20 years now after being a smoker for over 20 years! She swears by the effectiveness of hypnosis for smoking.
Art
Recommended Books
Posted by Wendy (Dublin, OH) on 03/10/2021
★★★★★
Yes, Allen Carr's book worked for me too! Have absolutely no desire to ever take up smoking again! Highly recommended.
Hypnotherapy
Posted by Rosie Q. (Santa Cruz Ca) on 12/30/2013
★★★★★
I am not sure if this is the right forum for this since this is a health site but this is what worked for me, I had multiple addictions and used to smoke two packs a day-
I had success with hypnotherapy, it gets to the root cause of why we smoke. then- keeping track of the money saved. (14$ a day, 98$ a week) and taking some of that and treating myself to something nice ( a pedicure, movie ) at the end of the week if I didn't smoke. the amount of money saved each week was extremely motivating!
Good luck to all! Quitting smoking is so hard and you all deserve good health!
Detox After Smoking
Posted by Skaye (Eatonton, Ga) on 02/02/2013
thank you Gavin... How do you mix the two and does is matter if it is "fresh" garlic and cayenne or can you use the bottles from the spice rack?
Detox After Smoking
Posted by 2q&learn (Southern Ca, Usa) on 09/16/2018 148 posts
@Gavin:
You can mix cayenne & minced garlic with butter or non-hydrogenated margerine. They cut way down of the hotness & bityness of each!
Nicotine Blocker
Posted by Katherine (Houston, Tx/usa) on 07/19/2011
Just wanted to let you know that the nicotine blocker did not work so well. I guess that I suck too hard on cigeretts... It felt like the nicotine blocker was getting into my lungs and causing my lungs to hurt. So I quit the nicotine blocker, but not the dang cigaretts. I am thinking that I just need to be locked up for a week to break this dang habit!!!
Eat Apples and Oranges
Posted by Lenda (Ga) on 01/16/2017
I like this idea, I'm having facial surgery feb 23rd next month and I have to stop smoking,,, oranges and apples sounds like a plan,,, I'll try it, thanks
Ellis' Quit Smoking Technique
Posted by Laura (Ventnor, Nj) on 01/25/2010
This sounds like a fantastic way to quit.. you really see where your money is going, and honestly, that would make me pretty crazy to just throw away $7. Great idea!
Ellis' Quit Smoking Technique
Posted by Kathy (Naugatuck, Ct) on 10/02/2014
Zimjace Please read the book "Easy Way to Stop Smoking". Once you understand the nicotine trap, it's easy to quit. It worked for me. Good Luck!
Ellis' Quit Smoking Technique
Posted by Cj (Chico, Ca) on 05/16/2015
Reply to Ellis -quit smoking 2009 -
This is the ideal way to quit - I smoked for 11 years & tapered off the way he described --although instead of destroying the ciggs not smoked I would put that cash saved in a jar and then buy something special --the reason I am writing is after not smoking for 20 years -for some reason I decided to start again BIG mistake although I am smoking only about 6 a day for the last 3 years -quitting is just as difficult --& I must say 20 years ago after I quit I always Missed it and if I saw someone smoking I still wanted to have one -- For me that feeling never went away -- so if you are successful -don't be temped to have one!
Ellis' Quit Smoking Technique
Posted by 2q&learn (Southern Ca, Usa) on 09/16/2018 148 posts
"No temptation has come upon you except what is common to men. But God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear, but along with the temptation he will also make the way out so that you may be able to endure it."
- 1 Corinthians 10:13
"He gives power to the tired one, and full might to those lacking strength."
- Isaiah 40:29
"For all things I have the strength through the one who gives me power."
- Philippians 4:13
(New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures, Study Edition)
Neem Tree Oil
Posted by Linda (Orange City, Fl) on 06/15/2009
★★★★★
I have been using Neem Tree leaf, bark, and oil for about 3 months. The oil of the seeds is not for human consumption, but used externally or mixed as pesticide. But I wanted to report my use of the leaves and bark. I order my supplies from ____, their price is very cheap compared to the health food store, and other sites on line. I get the loose leafs, and ground bark by the pound and make my on capsules of the size 00 (I buy them from the health food store) and took 2, two times a day, and also made my bark capsules and did the same 2, two times a day, and drink a lot of water. (Do the tea after you do the three weeks of capsules) Do tea for only one week. Well they gave me a great cleansing out. To make the tea I took four teaspoons of leaf and put into a quart jar of slightly warm water (do not use hot) and let sit for 24 hours, then keep in the frig, to drink shake and drink one cup, leaves and all at least 2 times a day. Now this is VERY hard to do,,,this is VERY bad taste, add what ever you want to get it down, I could not add to many things because I am Diabetic. But I took two cups of the TEA twice a day for one week. Then, at this time of the tea drinking, *I stopped smoking after 12 years of at least one pack a day. I had know with drawls, nerves,,now I had been praying about it for a few months, and I had made a decision to stop. I did think about a smoke,,but it was not something that I could not handle. So I know that the cleansing from the Neem gave me a great help. The neem has a lot of information on line, there are a lot of neem products at health food stores, there are a lot of companies selling online, but I have to watch my spending so I make my on capsules, I use the oil either straight on my body where ever needed and I add a few drops to shampoo or lotion, but only if it is really needed because the oil has a very, very strong smell. There are sites that sell the capsules made, they are smaller than mine, so you would have to take 3, but for the price of one jar of leaf caps you can buy one pound at _____, in the health food store I saw a bottle of neem oil one ounce for $15, I can get 8 ounces at that price at the other place.
Ted's Remedies
Posted by Timh (Louisville, Ky, Usa) on 05/05/2013 2048 posts
Shabda Girl: Thanks for your success post. If I might add two herbs, among others, that should help restore energy (smoking shrinks the adrenal glands) AND reduce stress ---Eleuthero Root or Siberian Ginseng and Ashwaganda. These can be used daily and I would rotate from one herb to the next on like a weekly basis. Added to a good breakfast and cup of good coffee, this should ensure your performance thru the day. Kinda like a 5hr energy day.
Ted's Remedies
Posted by Geo Gypsy (Rock Hill, Sc) on 12/31/2017
Shabda Girl, your post and info were the most helpful I've read. Connecting "doing something" when feeling stressed and changing what you "do" was invaluable to me. Thank you very much.
Licorice Root Extract
Posted by Bex7 (OR) on 11/17/2024
Get a straw, cut it the same length as a cigarette, and after dinner or whenever you feel the need to have something in hand, just use the straw. It is the same size, it has the ability for air to flow through it, and if needed, it will also help circulate saliva in mouth. And you can chew on it if you need to and then get a new piece of straw.
Recommended Books
Posted by Eddie (Pennsylvania) on 05/31/2016
Yes! Allen Carr's easy method book worked for me. If you've tried everything else and failed - READ THIS BOOK. My lung had collapsed 3 times over the years, had a bad cough and my wheezing at night would wake me. I thought I'd never be able to quit.
In the past I've tried Hypnosis and a special acupressure Ring in the ear - neither worked. Nicotine patches gave me a rash. Nicotine gum had me going to the Dentist with inflamed gums. Chantex had too many side effects for me to try. I even went to the local hospital for the free smoking cessation class - Right off the bat they stated "You definitely will not be able to stop smoking without some form of drug therapy."- NOT! I even Googled "what did you have to hear for you to stop smoking?" Nothing came up that helped until I read Allen Carr's Book. No scare tactics in it, just the facts - the real facts. I needed good logic and psychology to quit which the book provided - WITHOUT DRUGS! In the opening chapter it states not to quit smoking until you've finished the book - I liked that, so I took 4 days to read the book but on day 4 I quit and have never had a cigarette since! He explains how "the willpower method" will fail you. I read about this book from this post.
I thank you Jennifer.
Recommended Books
Posted by Waltz (India) on 03/13/2021
Horsetail extract capsules is all you will ever require to quit smoking. The natural silica compounds in it does the trick.
Hypnotherapy
Posted by Maria (Miami, FL) on 09/24/2014
★★★★★
Hypnosis worked for me to quit smoking. I had gradually cut down but could not make the final cut off. I did not gain weight either with the session I went through.
Ginger Root
Posted by Cindy (Los Angeles) on 08/28/2013
Hi Scott, glad you healed your dog and yourself. My dad has “terminal cancer”. When I first saw him, he was already on his way out.. To the other side. His skin was grey, he had not eaten in over a week, he was not as coherent, he was barely able to walk and he was in a lot of pain.
I loaded him up with FlorEssence (Liquid), Plant-based protein powder, Organic Greens Powder, Organic Liquid Vitamins, the best Pro-Biotic capsules, Organic Aloe Vera Juice, L-Glutamine, Immune Something to boost his White Blood Count and T-Cells, Turmeric Tincture. And in four days, he was eating one meal a day, his skin had color again, he was walking faster, and he was much more coherent. However, his pain is increasing daily. And he is still smoking and drinking (beer) during that time and was still improving.
He saw a doctor yesterday and he has a tumor between his spine and his left shoulder blade. He has another appointment to do more tests. I believe they talked to him about possible radiation or chemo (I have to get the complete story from my brother who is caring for him) to his area that is ailing him.
I believe I can cure him but not sure if he does not stop smoking and drinking. He says he hasn't stopped because the doctors have not told him to stop. However, he does want to stop.
Please share your method of taking ginger root, are you chewing on it to help you stop smoking or making tea? Thank you.
Ginger Root
Posted by Dave (Fountain Inn, Sc) on 09/06/2013
Teresa:
Concerning the nicotine addiction, there was a guy in Texas that ran a home for Girls and many came with various addictions. He'd put them through a three day watermelon cleanse... Like eat a watermelon a day and the liquid would get to the cellular level and virtually all the girls broke their addictions doing this cleanse. (He was Lester Rolof.)
Ginger Root
Posted by Mama To Many (Tennessee) on 11/20/2015
My favorite way to intake ginger is "candied ginger." Available in large grocery stores or online. Ginger tea is nice too. ~Mama to Many~
Ginger Root
Posted by Art (California) on 06/21/2023 2325 posts
Gail,
The most effective method that I have seen to stop smoking is hypnotism. One treatment has worked for a friend for about 20 years with no cravings.
Art
Ginger Root
Posted by George (Australia) on 06/21/2023
Look into L-Trytophan, it is used to quell addictions.
Ginger Root
Posted by Rob (Kentucky) on 06/22/2023
Look into Kudzu root. I've been told it takes the nicotine cravings away.
Nicotine Blocker
Posted by Gavin (Manganui, Northland, New Zealand) on 07/20/2011
Im totaly comfortable with your spin on things.. I just think the smoking thing needs a bit of logic and reason applied to it. The big tobacco companies have turned a fairly harmless and benign pleasure into a major health problem. The actual tobacco leaf smoked by the red indians (Nicotinus virginius) required two puffs and you were into opium dreamland. This is grown now just for the nicotine which is sprayed onto the mush which is then rolled into commercial cigaretts, all the other crap about 150 harmful chemicals are added for shelf life, flavouring etc..... Its turned into mush because thats the only way the machines can roll them, at this stage. Theirs is also the fact that in certain countries where smoking is heavy, and the diet is far different from the western one. The health risk is just not showing up.. Ie (The asian paradox) and the mediterranean diet. Arguably the greatest minds of the twentieth century were either puffing on a pipe or a cigar and lived a ripe old age. I personaly think that we might be at some sort of watershed, where the ideas generated from those smoke filled rooms might just not happen anymore. The monoxide forces the brain to solve problems and work harder, but thats just a personal opinion. Time will tell.
Nicotine Blocker
Posted by Gavin (Northland, New Zealand) on 12/01/2013
Yes thanks, I was thinking of moderation in all things, immoderate use of all things lead to problems. Most of the things that make a person feel good if overdone are bad for the body. But on the other hand if you go through life without the occasional pleasure we might as well not bother.
Dried Ginseng
Posted by 2q&learn (Southern Ca, Usa) on 09/16/2018 148 posts
There is more than one kind of Ginseng. One is usually no problem, but the other one can cause serious problems with lots of people. So, which Ginseng are you encouraging the use of ...?
Ellis' Quit Smoking Technique
Posted by Zimjace (Zimbabwe) on 09/28/2014
hey there jc, , , I'm really really happy that you found something that weaned you off smoking as it is such a destructive and terrible habit and addiction that I suffer from as I type, ,
i have read so many different posts on how to stop and i'm sure there are many peeps out there that have tried different methods to no avail, ,
but I also know of people (close friends) that smoked far more than I do that have just decided to give it up and that was that, , , they haven't smoked since that day, , ,
i almost did, , , as I been telling myself daily that I should stop, , , so I kinda cut down, , , some days would really smoke less than others and about a week ago I only had 1 ciggy the whole day, , , , but that was for that day only, , , , and now i'm smoking about 10
i wanna give up, not cut down but seem to be lacking in willpower
Is there something I can do for willpower?
Ellis' Quit Smoking Technique
Posted by Mr. Ree (Usa) on 09/28/2014
Zimjace, Ask yourself this. Am I going to wait until a Dr.tells me I have cancer... then stop smoking?
Ellis' Quit Smoking Technique
Posted by Michael (New Zealand) on 07/12/2017
Hypnotherapy? Nicotine Patches?
There must be something out there that will help but it will need YOU to add something from yourself to the mix also. Some sort of a plan would help you get from day to day for starters.
Michael
Ellis' Quit Smoking Technique
Posted by KT (Usa) on 07/14/2017
Memorizing 1 Cor. 10:13 helped me.
Rich's Remedies
Posted by Rich (Boca Raton, Fl) on 01/08/2009
I have a different message for smokers than Ted.
Most smokers suffer from Vitamin E deficiencies. But when you give them an extra Vitamin C supplement (maybe one pill in the morning and 1 at night), this E deficiency goes away completely. Vitamin E is used in collagen production.
My opinion is that smokers have a higher bacteria count in their lungs, and your body has to constantly repair them. Vitamin C kills the bacteria. Yea.
Bacteria creates acids, and a chronic state of acidic lungs can lead to a lung fungus or sinus fungus.
The mayo clinic says that most chronic sinus infections are caused by a fungus.
I think Acidic lungs complicated by a fungus leaves your lungs more vulnerable to a lung cancer.
*****
On a second-note, beta-carotene (a pre-cursor of Vitamin A, and an anti-inflammatory), increases the risk of lung cancer in smokers.
*****
You can cure the E-defficiency, and kill the lung fungus, and H202 therapy can cure emphysyma, and greatly decrease the chance of obtaining lung cancer. Even if you don't quit, there are steps you can take to improve your quality of life. Quitting smoking is of course a better solution(but everybody knows that part).
Also, smokers live an average of 5-years less than non-smokers. There aren't any studies on smokers who take extra vitamins though (or whether these smokers are also obese or heavy drinkers).
One bizzarre study shows that ex-smokers are less likely to develop thyroid cancer than non-smokers and active smokers are even less-likely. It's a counter-intuitive, strange piece of trivia.
*****
As Ted said, taking a b-3, and/or a B-complex may be helpful, along with an extra C. This may reduce congestion along with other benefits, helping make the process of quitting easier.
*****
One method to quit smoking is count-the-clock... count the number of minutes between your first 2 morning cigerettes... if it's 30 minutes, then you can't smoke any quicker than 30 minutes between ciggerettes. Gradually increasing throughout the day. In a week or 2, maybe you can get down to a few cigarettes per day.
Then... don't bring them to work, and you can cut down to 2 or 3 in a few more days. That is the count-the-clock method. Of course, no method works for everybody.
Ted's Remedies
Posted by Cozette (Pasadena, TX) on 12/04/2006
I'm looking for a remedy to quit smoking."
Ted from Bangkok, Thailand replies: "Dear Cozette: Any supplements that will calm the nerves and anxiety would do. While stopping addiction might seen to be difficult, reducing anxiety would be a more practical approach.
Certain aromatherapy that calms the nerves or deadens anxiety are lavender oils and narcissus oils. Narcissus oils are power stuff and they do reduce anxiety but should be used sparingly, if too much it does cause sleepiness. For me it helps a lot with both depression and anxiety. I just smell the aroma and it just goes right through the brain since the nose and the brain are quite close to each other. The emotion centers and the smell center are very closely related and this is why it had such a powerful effect. For most people I think, lavender oil should be more than enough. Of course if it doesn't work that well, a more powerful narcissus oil would have a better chance.
The addiction to cigarettes is due to the nicotine, but what is interesting is the chemical similarity with only one oxygen molecule less, which is nicotinic acid or also goes by another name called niacinamide, which is vitamin B3. Therefore taking some vitamin B complex plus maybe 100 mg of niacinamide supplements more may displace the nicotine due to chemical similarities. The vitamin B3 if taken at larger than average dose do have the tendency to reduce anxiety and hence, possible addiction to nicotine.
To test whether it works for you is to take them when you have this addiction. It only takes three days to stop the habit. If you get over this hump period, by taking plenty of niacinamide and vitamin B3 for at least 5 days, that should be enough to know it works for you or not. If that is not enough, then try to freshen the room with lavender and narcissus oil during the cigarette deprivation period of about 3 days.
In fact, if there was a 3 day stop smoking clinic, I think this would stop a lot of people from addiction. The issue is simple, once it is over the hump period, the addiction no longer exists. Basically the 3 day stop smoking clinic works like this: a group of people without cigarettes sit in a room and do anything they like, but there is no cigarettes handy. By putting a lease between you and the cigarettes for at least 3 days, the addiction in theory would stop. Of course, it would mean a solitary confinement from the cigarettes for three days would be worth it!"
Ted's Remedies
Posted by Tshkrel (Harwich, Massachusetts, United States) on 07/13/2012
Actually, smoking is a form of pica. The medical community has completely missed the boat on this because of the rigid (and quite stupid) definition of pica which excludes inhalation as a transport mechanism for nutrients.
The point being this--- IF smoking was looked at from this perspective, as being pica, the obvious question would arise, `What nutrient is the smoker deficient in?'
Nicotine, when it is oxidized, becomes nicotinic acid or vitamin B-3. This fact is actually the achilles heel of the whole `smoking treatment' scam. But this `hard' fact is known by any chemist and biochemist. For example, the biochemist David Bender states this fact in his textbook Nutritional Biochemistry of the Vitamins pg. 200. But it gets comical after this.
The origin of the name niacin was due to this uncomfortable fact that nicotine becomes nicotinic acid and Bender goes on to say that there was a distinct purpose in renaming nicotinic acid to niacin. "It was felt nicotinic acid was not a suitable name for a substance that was to be added to foods, both because of its phonetic and chemical relationship to nicotine."
But nicotinic acid is not what the smoker is deficient in. It is only one piece to a two-piece puzzle. The reason is this... nicotinic acid is THE master chelator. In other words, in a biological system it is never found by itself but always attached to another biological marker ... whether a nucleoside or mineral.
There is something else that is in tobacco that nicotine is adhering to. This other element is what the smoker is deficient in. When this element is replaced through diet, rather than tobacco, a remarkable thing occurs... The desire, the craving to smoke completely vanishes. These facts are all demonstrated in the book, You are not Addicted to Cigarette Smoking You are Starving: How the Magic Mineral Prevents the Desire to Smoke.
Ted's Remedies
Posted by Shabda Girl (Santa Barbara, Ca) on 05/06/2013
Timh, Thanks for the suggestion of Ginseng and Ashwaghanda. I have used the latter before but forgot about it. I think they're both adaptogenic, and general tonics. I had added in Dong Quai as well, and daily transdermal magnesium - fantastic for rebuilding some depletions. Transdermal magnesium has been amazing in the past, but likewise I had forgotten how good it is. Weird how stress can overtake one's point of view and start to seem 'normal'. I so appreciate your suggestions!
Licorice Root Extract
Posted by MiMiKattee (mississippi) on 11/17/2024
I had same problem. took up chewing gum and crochet/knitting to keep the hand and mind busy. that was 40 years ago. Still something nags at me when I finish eating to light up and finish the dining experience, LOL
Hypnotherapy
Posted by Loraine (Orlando) on 09/25/2014
Hi Maria....can hydrotherapy work for people with alcohol addiction? Thank you in advance for a prompt response....
Hypnotherapy
Posted by C. F (U.s.a.) on 09/22/2015
For drinking addiction try Kudzu and nutrition.
Ginger Root
Posted by Teresa (Tn) on 09/05/2013
Scott, I would also like to know if you are chewing the ginger or making the tea. I am trying to quit smoking, but am having no luck.
Ginger Root
Posted by Keisha (Houston, TX) on 07/15/2015
To help with quitting smoking - What is the suggested amounts of ginger root and do you eat it raw? Thank you.
Ginger Root
Posted by M. Cole (Houston, Texas) on 11/19/2015
I also heard that Ginger Root helps with smoking. How should I take it? i.e. eating as is, cooking it????
Ginger Root
Posted by Tinamarie (Fl) on 10/28/2018
Hello just a quick question about the ginger root. How big of a piece, how many times a day, and do you peel the skin off or not. Want to try and detox my system the best and quickest way. Thanks
Ginger Root
Posted by Gail (Sharpsville pa ) on 06/21/2023
★★★★☆
Would love more info on nicotine withdrawal symptoms I am 60 days nicotine free and still have many urges daily I have tried alot of your suggestions from people on your site.
ginger works fabulously but would like other nicotine free suggestions as I don't want.to use patches and things that have nicotine in them
thank you kindly Gail
Detox After Smoking
Posted by Brad (Ontario) on 08/29/2023
Wow, I see that mullein growing everywhere, sounds like a potential remedy for me to try as I stopped smoking, again, and wish to clear my lungs out. I read you can even smoke the plant, but its not recommended, although I am curious what it would taste like. Thanks for this.
Nicotine Gum
Posted by Bill (San Fernando, Philipppines) on 09/24/2012
It's quite well known that tabacco contains nicotine. It's also quite well known that niacin is called nicotinic acid. In fact, much of the niacin supplements are actually made from tabacco for this reason.
It seems, from the testimonials, that many smokers have successfully given up smoking by just using larger dose niacin(nicotinic acid) instead of the nicotine patches or gum.
http://pharmaceuticalsanonymous.blogspot.com/2010/04/niacin-for-smoking-cessation.html
Using niacin is also much cheaper than using nicotine patches or nicotine gum to give up smoking.
Lobelia
Posted by Waltz (India) on 02/27/2018
Why dont you try Horsetail extract containing Silica. It will make you kick this habit like magic. So many of my acquaintances have been able to let go of smoking by trying this.
Nicotine Blocker
Posted by Kathie (Houston, Tx, Usa) on 07/06/2011
I have tried to quit smoking for some time now. I had "been quit" for over ten years but getting divorced brought me back to this terrible habit. I have tried reducing but once I got down to 10 a day, my will power was not enough, with patches and gum, I found myself smoking with these things. I found a nicotine blocker on the internet and ordered it. It is a liquid that you put on the tip of the cigarette filter. One drop blocks 33% of nicotine and tar (one drop for the first week), two drops blocks 66% (two drops for the second week) and 3 drops blocks 99% (the third week and longer if needed). While using the nicotine blocker, you also are supposed to gradually reduce the number of cigarettes smoked each day. This sounds like a great idea, because I know that my addiction is not just to the nicotine but also the physical act of smoking. As I add drops of this nicotine blocker, my body will get less of a "reward" for that cigarette and my cravings will slowly go away. I started this program today and I will keep you posted as to my results.
During this time, I will increase my B vitamins (as Ted recommends), maybe take some valerian root (to help calm), and take hot baths daily to help sweat out the toxins.
Also it is my understanding that cigarettes have heavy metal toxins in them, so when I am "quit", I will do a cleanse that will help remove heavy metals. This will include chlorophyll and cilantro as well as plenty of protein so the metals will have something to "grab hold" of and be safely removed from the body.
Nicotine Blocker
Posted by Gavin (Manganui, Northland, New Zealand) on 07/19/2011
In a perfect world we wouldn't smoke we wouldn't eat bad food. We wouldn't be stressed out trying to make a living. But it aint a "Perfect world".. Moderate smoking ie five a day and a natural tobacco at that. Might not be politcaly correct.. But as an appetite suppresant it takes the edge off of constant need to feed. It supplies b3. Has a calming effect and a dopamine release. When you weigh up the overall effect Obesity will have on the general population, compared to the health of a moderate smoker. I have the suspicion we might have the reason why people have been smoking for four hundred years. It might be very wise to look at banning tailor made cigaretts, as the list of unatural additves is shocking! As long as this is done with regard to the food industry as well. But a a few cool stogies a day wont kill anyone.
Nicotine Blocker
Posted by Maria (Gippsland, Australia) on 07/19/2011
Do some research regarding B-3 & Vit C to help with quitting smoking, also check the EC page.
https://www.earthclinic.com/cures/quit_smoking.html
There is a heap of difference with natural (including dried naturally & not forced dried) tobacco. I remember reading many years ago that lung cancer was not a problem with smoking naturally grown & dried tobacco, mind you the amount smoked was small not large amounts. Now days this is not a legal option here in Oz, but cigarettes with all their chemicals are.
Nicotine Blocker
Posted by Francisca (Michelbach-le-bas, Alsace, France) on 07/20/2011
Sorry Gavin but I can't agree with your advice at all! True, obesity is a big problem and one easy to solve for most people who don't have a specific illness that makes them obese. The answer is tackle it in the beginning, far easier than to let yourself get overly fat and only then try to get rid of your weight. I think that people should stay away from cigaretts because sonner or later they all try to quit and then they have a problem! Ok, the world is far from perfect but should that mean that we go around doing everything that is not good for us? If you don't start you don't miss it, believe me because I don't!
I didn't know that naturally dried tobacco was less harmful than the cigarettes sold in the stores and criminal, if that is the case, that it is forbidden by law at least in Australia. But then till a while ago it was perfectly legal to spray your crops with all kinds of harmful chemical here in France while nettle juice, which is harmless was forbidden. You weren't even allowed to give the recipe to anybody, that was punishable by law. Now they have changed the law to allow it for home use but it is still forbidden in farms. And if you see that we have nettles for free all over the place? But that is exactly the problem.... For free... Makes no money! Anyway, don't forget second hand smoking! I have no idea whether with more natural tobacco this is less of a problem but making others inhale your old smoke is not a nice thing to do, unless you always smoke only around other smokers!
Nicotine Blocker
Posted by Sarah (London, Uk) on 11/04/2012
Gavin, I don't know where you're getting your information from, but its contrary to my knowledge and experience. I come from what was only recently the largest tobacco producer in the world (Zimbabwe), which still has the biggest tobacco auction floors globally. My country has (had) a long history of tobacco farming and cigarrette manufacture... And I am familiar with it all. There is no 'spraying' of some high grade nicotine onto 'mush' as you maintain... Certainly not from what I've witnessed. There is, however, a grading of the leaf - from high to low - similar with tea farming.
Also, your statement that "... The big tobacco companies have turned a fairly harmless and benign pleasure into a major health problem" makes no logical sense. Why would commercial companies trash their product?? Its illogical. And what about the expose nearly 20yrs ago now of tobacco companies actually hiding facts about the harm nicotine and smoking has on health?
It is well understood and accepted that nearly 70% of ALL lung cancers are caused directly by smoking - or in a few cases, from exposure to other harmful substances such as asbestos. The figure for oral cancers (mouth, neck and head included) are as high for smokers. This is medical fact, which any oncologist can verify.
Also, the biggest killer today - in developed countries - is coronary heart disease (CHD). Diabetes is also a massive problem, costing health services billions to manage every year, and contributing to CHD deaths. Smoking is a major factor in CHD - and it is not a causal link.
It is true that bowel cancers are on the increase - but NOT necessarily in non-smokers. It is also the easiest cancer to treat if it is caught early enough. Bowel screening programmes are doing much to highlight new cases and may well be distorting the figures.
Conversely, in developing countries, the biggest killers remain communicable diseases. However, as diets become more like the western world (with high fat and sugar) combined with increased smoking - there is an effective tsunami of health concerns on the horizon - especially as developing countries don't have the health infrastructure of the west.
The damaging effects of smoking are - frankly - undeniable. Your claim that 'big tobacco companies' are making up this 'spin' is baffling.
Nicotine Blocker
Posted by Sarah (London, Uk) on 11/04/2012
I would just like to add... People today are living considerably longer with each decade - never mind with each generation. This is due to a variety of reasons. First, the discovery of penicillin and the advent of antibiotics is not to be underestimated. For people to die from sepsis today (in the developed world) is rare in comparison to before the advent of antibiotics. A very common infection, especially in children and the elderly, is urinary tract infection (UTI). Left untreated, UTI's can track back along the renal system and infect the kidneys. This is an infection of a vital organ - which, without antibiotics, is potentially fatal. Antibiotics have a bad rep because of their overuse in the 70's and 80's... but their impact on mortalities is massive, and ongoing.
Secondly, vaccines and innoculations have had an equally massive impact on mortality - with small pox virtually eliminated. There was even recently discussions of destroying the last small pox viruse reserves kept for making vaccines.
Thirdly, nutrition -more in the developed world. Good nutrition even impacts on following generations. There was a facinating study done on Dutch women who were children during WWII, and the effects of their malnutrition on their off-spring, and even on the children of their children.
Fourthly, and again more in the developed countries, is better living conditions - clean water, sanitation etc. Have you ever heard of a cholera outbreak in a western town or city? No. In Africa (for example) it can be rife. 4yrs ago Zimbabwe had mass graves because of cholera... The political situation has so degraded the infrastructure there is no clean running water. With the rains comes flooding of sewage into water ways, and boom! Cholera. The very young and the elderly dying the most.
Finally, medical intervention is undoubtably impacting on mortality. This hardly needs further explanation.
So, people of yester-year living to a "ripe old age" while "puffing on a pipe or cigar" is not exactly correct. Their ripe old age was in all likelihood their 60's or early 70's (unlike today, where people with access to modern living standards, good nutrition and healthcare systems are living comfortably into their late 80's, 90's and even 100yrs and beyond) And wouldn't it be interesting to know exactly what it was people puffing away on their pipes and cigars actually died from? Infection? Small pox? Lung cancer?... certainly not old age.
Nicotine Blocker
Posted by Mesem (France) on 12/01/2013
This is for Sarah who didn't see to understand Gavin's comment back then! Its important to read carefully what people write and not skim read! Tobacco is just a plant that is not the greatest thing to abuse but add a bunch of chemicals to it and its self administered poison. Cannabis is natural and smoking it is not a huge deal unless you can't control your consumption. Add to list; alcohol, sugar, read meat, salt...
M's Quit Smoking Technique
Posted by Merryanne (Orange City, Fl) on 05/08/2010 113 posts
I am very proud of you for quit smoking,,,Good Job. I quit also about a year and half back,,,It is great not stink any more, my clothes don't smell and I like myself more also,,, Merryanne
Ellis' Quit Smoking Technique
Posted by I.m. Trying (Texas) on 07/12/2017
I always smoked mainly with a friend, so at times I would go months and was fine. Of course that changed, and I started smoking more regularly, plus enjoying my wine at the same time. I have severe mercury toxicity and have had the teeth all taken care of by a biological dentist. But all this has settled in my brain and other places and my immune system is rock bottom (though miraculously) I never get sick. but my mind is bad, very emotional, scared.... and in pain (which moves from place to place) from the moment I open my eyes. SO in the evenings the one thing that for some reason stops the pain is wine, and with wine comes the smokes. I KNOW I need to stop and I CAN go a day or so without it, but I do not have the will power or I talk myself out of it, and may only have 3-4 cigarettes. which is STILL not good. Then I beat myself up because my spouse I know wants me to stop, and we know that the smoke smell is always on us. I just need some support with this AND just getting through this detox that is going way way too slow.
Any suggestions would be helpful.
Thanks!
Neem Tree Oil
Posted by Yisseliy Montanez (Nj) on 01/14/2015
I will try, becouse sounds good for my smoking habit. I hope to have the same resolve like you!!!
Rich's Remedies
Posted by Stef (Portland, Usa) on 12/26/2011
Hi Janice, and anyone wishing to detox after smoking. There is a tea you can buy at select pharmacies or health food stores. If you can't find it, try looking at online merchants. Anyway the main ingredients in the tea are: valerian root, sarsaparilla, st. john's wort, red clover, licorice, cinnamon, ginger, burdock, cloves, oregano, fennel, cayenne pepper, and black pepper I know it sounds far from delicious, but this concoction is supposed to help alleviate the emotional withdrawal symptoms and clear out the lungs.
Ted's Remedies
Posted by Zander (Ohio, Usa) on 05/28/2014
Niacin worked for me. I fell back in to the trap but I was free from cigarettes and had no desire for them for 3 months. Stress tricked me back in to the trap. Anyway, I have heard that coffee has a toxic effect during the initial withdrawal from cigarettes and thus tea is preferred. This was in a Natural Remedy book by Stein, I believe. Any thoughts, experiences with this?
Licorice Root Extract
Posted by Aliza (NY) on 11/16/2024
My problem isn't nicotine or anything of the such. No addiction whatsoever. My problem is having it in my hand and the hand to mouth action.
Nicotine Patch
Posted by Deb Elkins (Oregon) on 09/30/2016
★☆☆☆☆
Nicotine patches or any other nicotine product for the use of stopping smoking leaves you still addicted to NICOTINE! There is a product out now that uses Cystine to control the urges....I am beginning on this product tomorrow, son started this morning. Will keep posted as to how it works.
Recommended Books
Posted by Jennifer (Northumberland, England) on 12/02/2014
A doctor recommended that I read a book by Allen Carr called, "Easy way to stop smoking". There is another one called, "The only way to stop smoking, permanently". I read the first book and I can honestly say that I had just about quit before I finished it. When I had finished it, I found that I didn't want to smoke. I continued to do my normal things like going out to the pub etc. and I did not get any withdrawal symptoms like I had when I had tried to quit before. I couldn't believe it. Both books are published by Penguin and I hope you all will give them a try.
Unfortunately, Mr Carr did die of lung cancer but he stayed alive a lot longer than he would have done if he had carried on smoking.
Good luck to all who try this method.
Nicotine Gum
Posted by Nnm0989 (Mumbai, Maharashtra, India) on 09/23/2012
Hi, Smoking is bad for your health. Smoking harms nearly every organ of the body. Cigarette smoking causes 87 percent of lung cancer deaths. Stop smoking aids are among the effective techniques that one can use to crush their nicotine addiction. However, as they say, what works for some may not work for everyone. One of the best products that I have ever come across to quit smoking is [nicotine] Gum and I believe in that product because today with the help of that I have quit smoking and from past six months I have not got a single craving...
Thanks and Cheers to Quit smoking Products.
Regards, Neil
Supplements
Posted by Tshkrel (Harwich, Massachusetts) on 07/13/2012
Smoking is due to a nutritional deficiency as shown in the book The Natural Cure For Cigarette Smoking: How The Magic Mineral Prevents The Desire To Smoke
Lobelia
Posted by Kathy (Randleman, Nc) on 02/24/2018 1 posts
Gosh! I just paid $14 for tiny bottle of spray. Where did you get it for $5???? Also, I've never heard of these cigarette filters . Where can I find them? One last question....Did the Liberia have any bad side effects. I'm prone to diarrhea when I consume something odd. I really want to kick this nasty habit. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. God bless.
Lobelia
Posted by Carolyn (Mo) on 12/28/2018
I got off of cigarettes with the nicotene gum, now I'm still addicted to nicotene and still chew the gum. Will this work to get off of them? Or is there a better way to kick this habit?
Lobelia
Posted by Carolyn (Mo) on 12/29/2018
I got off of cigarettes with the nicotene gum, now I'm still addicted to nicotene and still chew the gum. Will this work to get off of them? Or is there a better way to kick this habit?
Lobelia
Posted by John (Easley Sc) on 12/30/2018
I was a smoker for 39 years. I tried cold turkey many times and cold laser therapy twice with limited results. I used Chantix for my last attempt to stop smoking.
It was very easy to stop smoking.. It's been over seven years since I stopped smoking.
Nicotine Blocker
Posted by Gavin (Manganui, Northland, New Zealand) on 07/20/2011
Now the anti smoking industry has gone political. Its totaly ignoring a few things. Ie the bigest cause of death in non smokers is bowel cancer. Smoking increases peristalsis, I suppose that means poor food dosn't linger in the gut as long as it does in non smokers, so constipation dosn't occur.. Which is a major cause of this type of cancer. A few years ago doctors would recomend smoking to stop Asthma, and to delay Altzhimers. In the thirties they also touted it for stress relief. Yes the LPG dryers in the leaf drying kilns leave cancerous hydro carbons on the leaf. In a few years it will be interesting to see if lives are actually saved in the demonising of smoking. I doubt it.
Nicotine Blocker
Posted by Gavin (Northland, New Zealand) on 12/01/2013
With regard to the big tobacco I was referring to the production of taylor made cigys. The leaf is processed into a mush and then dried out like cardboard, it has to be done this way for the cuters, the rolling machines cant make them, any other way. Rice is also used as filler, (burnt rice is a carcinogen) the amount of nicotine in the commercial leaf isn't very high, so they add it to the mush, by spraying. Along with about another 140 chemicals to improve shelf life and taste. I've researched this, and to the best of my knowledge, it is correct. If you add to the mix the hydrocarbons left on the leaf, after kiln drying, another carcinogen, taylor made cigs, are really dicey. No one will convince me that a few and I stress a few, rolled cigarettes, per day are much of a health hazard. The fact that pipe smokers live longer than none smokers, must be a clue to some sort, of balanced look at the problem. During the time I was researching the effects of smoking. I was fairly dumfounded myself as to benefits. This might sound a bit reactionary to the present anti smoking industries.. and I apologise if I've hurt anyone's sensibilities .but I think that its past atmospheric bomb testing with regards to strontium levels, that would be the main culprit for causing a disease that wasn't on the radar before they started.
Vitamin C
Posted by Debbie (Melbourne, Australia) on 06/13/2011
★★★★★
Phil, I read somewhere recently that if you dissolve some vitamin C powder in water and spray it into your mouth you will lose the craving for cigarettes. I don't smoke so I don't need to try it. It won't hurt you how often you do it but may stop you smoking.
Maybe you could try it and report back here?
