Addictions

Acupuncture alone is a very effective method for helping stop most addictions. We also use nutrition and herbal medicine to support healthy habits. Acupuncture and Nutrition is best used together, but either one can be used independently as stand-alone treatments. These methods are frequently used to stop smoking, give up alcohol abuse, curtail over-eating, and quit abusing drugs (prescription over-use, OTC or illicit drugs). Whether the addiction is serious, or simply unhealthy, acupuncture and nutrition can help.

Acupuncture helps by suppressing cravings, calming anxiety and irritation, promoting a sense of relaxation, significant relief from symptoms of withdrawal and improved sleep. Typically a series of treatments are needed to have lasting results. Certain points, especially on the outside of the ear are particularly helpful and commonly used. Acupuncture is so effective with addictions that Acupuncture detoxification clinics for serious drug use opened in hospitals in New York City, San Francisco, Santa Barbara, Chicago, Portland, Miami, San Diego and other locations, have been saving these cities millions of dollars in rehabilitation costs annually.

Research shows strong evidence that the use of acupuncture raises the level of endorphins in the nervous system. These are known as “happy hormones”, and elicit a feeling of euphoria, common to athletes. This also mitigates the desire to eat, helping dieters control their appetites, which explains why acupuncture is so good for weight loss as well.

Minerals control many brain functions as well, reducing the stress-like fight or flight response of the Sympathetic Nervous System. Certain minerals are effective in reducing anxiety and helping a person feel calmer.  Since minerals also support function of several stress glands, hormones and other metabolic functions in the body, good nutrition goes a long way in helping overcome a variety of addictions.

In short, if you are suffering from any substance habit and are ready to quit, we can help.