Quit smoking
Do you have a product or any advise for quitting smoking. Im taking chantix and it works pretty well but Im still smoking a little. About 2 or 3 cigs a week. Ive been on it for 2 months and still have strong cravings.
The best things to utilize from the natural pharmacy would
be compounds that help to relax and calm you in an effort to reduce the
severity of the cravings. In addition, if you are in a more relaxed state
of mind, you are less likely to get triggered into a craving in the first
place.
L-theanine is a wonderful natural compound derived from green tea that helps to
calm the mind without any sedating effects. This may help to promote a
relaxed state of mind and reduce the cravings. Adding other herbs like
Lemon Balm, Skullcap and Passionflower to the formula would further promote the
relaxation effects. The nice thing is that all these natural compounds do
not tend to be overly sedating so they can be used during the day or at work
without clouding your mind and impairing concentration.
St. John's Wort has had some
limited studies with helping people to quit smoking. It is thought to
increase Serotonin levels in the brain which subsequently improves mood and
outlook and reduces cravings. If you are not on any other
anti-depressants it tends to be very safe and well tolerated. If you have
other serious health conditions and are taking prescription medications for it,
you should discuss taking St. John's
Wort with your doctor.
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View More by Dr. Kevin Passero
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Lead Medical Director
As a certified and fully trained Naturopathic Doctor, Passero has trained and preceptored with some of the nation's leading doctors in the field of natural medicine, working under the guidance of MD’s, Chiropractors, Naturopaths and Acupuncturists. Furthermore, he is currently the Vice President of the Maryland Association of Naturopathic Physicians.
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