Quit Smoking with Herbal Remedies

Smoking is an addiction and a bad habit and affects the overall health. It has been proven that smoking causes fatal heart attacks and cancer deaths. The addictive component in the cigarette is the nicotine and this substance can cause respiratory health problems, lung cancer, increased heart rate and blood pressure, earlier menopause, weakened immune system and irregular menstrual cycles. Passive smoking can also affect the non-smokers as they breathe the cigarette smoke. Quitting smoking can be very difficult, as it comes with withdrawal symptoms such as headaches, frustration, increased appetite, lack of concentration, anger and anxiety. However, it is not impossible to quit smoking and the natural remedies can help you with that.

Licorice

This plant is demulcent and expectorant and can help you quit smoking in a natural way. Licorice offers relief for the smoker’s cough and its sweet taste is beneficial in reducing the urge to smoke. At the same time, this herb restores the energy, reduces the fatigue and balances the cortisol levels. If you feel the urge to smoke, you can immediately chew some licorice root. Moreover, you can consume licorice root tea up to thrice a day.

St. John’s Wort

This useful plant is also essential for those who are willing to quit smoking. St. John’s Wort combats the stress that appears after quitting. The experts have discovered that the levels of stress and anxiety experienced by those who quit smoking are similar to those who suffer from depression. So, St. John’s Wort plant is recommended in both cases. This plant can be found in capsule, bulk or liquid form and you can begin the treatment 2 weeks before quitting so as to meliorate the withdrawal symptoms.

Ginseng

Most people who quit smoking suffer from cravings and ginseng can fight against these cravings. This plant will also reestablish the cortisol levels and will tone the adrenal glands. At the same time, the ginseng combats the emotional and physical stress, lessens the anxiety, improves the mood and sharpens concentration. Add ginseng to a cup of milk or to your cereals and consume it daily so as to reduce the cravings. Avoid taking ginseng in case you suffer from schizophrenia, heart problems, auto-immune diseases or diabetes.

Valerian

This flowering plant is an anti-anxiety supplement and a sedative and it is a great aid for those who want to quit smoking. It calms the body and the brain and it eliminates the cravings. The valerian also promotes the sleep. It is available in tincture, powder or capsule forms and you must always consult a doctor before taking it.

Passion Flower

Another herbal remedy that promotes relaxation and aids with the quitting is the passion flower. It combats the irritability and the anxiety and it is beneficial for the individuals who experience restlessness and insomnia. At the same time, it reduces the nicotine cravings. Passion flower can be taken in capsule, tincture or tea form, but it is not recommended for the women who are pregnant or who are nursing. Also, consult a healthcare provider before taking the herb.