Medicinal Herbs Used to Quit Smoking

More people are looking for ways to get away from the harmful health effects of smoking. Quitting is rarely easy; however, there are herbs that can facilitate each aspect of the quitting process and help heal the lungs and remove carcinogens.

Nervous Tension

• Skullcap soothes anxiety during quitting and valerian is useful for insomnia that may result from not smoking. Kava kava, passionflower and St. John's Wort are also effective for soothing nerves and controlling anxiety.

Habit

• Licorice root can be used to occupy the hands and mouth, and help soothe worn adrenal glands. Use licorice for no longer than six weeks, and people with high blood pressure, heart, liver or kidney problems should avoid it.

Lung Tissue

• Mullein helps heal lungs damaged from smoking by soothing irritations and thinning mucous, and speeds up the healing of damaged tissues. Coltsfoot works similarly, but can be toxic to the liver.

Carcinogens

• Turmeric, a spice added to food in India, may help remove carcinogens and lower the risk of cancer. Curcumin, a chemical in turmeric, also helps prevent inflammation in the body.

Strong Cravings

• Blue lotus is used as a nerve tonic. A glass of tea taken with a rolled cigarette of the herb has a strong sedative effect that helps stave off more powerful tobacco cravings.

Warnings

• Lobelia, a common herb used to quit smoking, can have toxic side effects that include coma, seizures and vomiting. The herb may become more toxic if it is used with tobacco.