Herbs to Help You Quit Smoking

Herbs have been used for centuries in various cultures around the world to treat a wide variety of ailments and conditions. Today, natural therapists promote the use of herbs to assist with the withdrawal from nicotine and the physical and emotional effects of quitting smoking. Herbs can be purchased in capsule form or as a tea from many health food stores.

Lobelia

• Lobelia is also known as Indian tobacco. It has a long history as a herb that is used to treat a wide variety of respiratory disorders, including asthma, bronchitis and coughs. It has a similar effect on the central nervous system as nicotine and is used to ease the symptoms of nicotine withdrawal. It is known to be a relaxant herb that helps relax the airways to make breathing easier and can relieve spastic colon and spastic muscle conditions.

St. John's Wort

• St. John's wort is used to treat depression and anxiety. It is used as an antidepressant and should not be taken by those who are already using medication. This herb is useful in alleviating the anxiety associated with nicotine withdrawal. It is known as a blood cleanser and nerve tonic and also has antibacterial and anti-viral properties. This means St. John's Wort can be used to relax the body and mind while cleansing it at the same time.

Hyssop

• Hyssop is reported to have a cleansing and healing effect on the lungs and throat. It has been used in various cultures for many years to treat lung problems, such as asthma and bronchitis. It is also used to treat sore throats. Hyssop is described as a purifying herb, known to cleanse the body of toxins. It assists with relieving high blood pressure as it regulates and increases circulation. Hyssop is also useful in helping the body to recover after years of smoking.

Skullcap

• Skullcap is used as a tonic for the nervous system and is used to treat a wide variety of nerve disorders, including epilepsy, ADD, hysteria, insomnia, and it is used to aid withdrawal from tranquilizers and barbiturates. It can help to treat the anxiety and potential insomnia associated with nicotine withdrawal and help replenish and tone the nervous system during withdrawal.

Korean Ginseng

• Korean Ginseng is used as an overall tonic for health and vitality. It is said to put the body back into balance. It contains adaptogens, which are reported to help you deal with physical and emotional stress and it can help the body create endorphins which produce feelings of happiness. It can lower blood sugar levels, which helps balance blood sugar levels during withdrawal. It is also reported to have a relaxing effect on the lungs and help with breathing problems.