Every day, in France, millions of people smoke. Many started very young, often during adolescence, and fell into full-blown addiction. Cigarettes are not just nicotine. It is also a gesture, a reassuring habit for some, especially when stress or nerves take over. But it is possible to stop, and to do so without straining your body. Here are concrete solutions to help you quit smoking.
Nicotine substitutes
Nicotine substitutes can be covered by Health Insurance, provided they are prescribed by your doctor. These devices help reduce withdrawal symptoms by providing a controlled dose of nicotine. They come in two main forms:
- Nicotine patches (or patches) : To stick to clean, dry skin, they should be worn for 16 to 24 hours, depending on the product. These patches deliver nicotine continuously through the skin to maintain a constant level in the body.
- Oral substitutes : These include chewing gum, tablets, lozenges, inhalers or mouth and nasal sprays. These products are used during sudden urges to smoke. They provide a quick dose of nicotine to relieve the immediate craving. Inhalers, on the other hand, also imitate the action of smoking, which can be useful for smokers attached to the habit.
The electronic cigarette
Also called a vaporizer, the rechargeable electronic cigarette is a support device for stopping smoking. It heats an e-liquid to transform it into an aerosol, which the user inhales.
This system provides an adjustable dose of nicotine, which can be reduced gradually for gentle withdrawal. In addition, it allows you to reproduce the action of smoking, which helps manage addiction. However, it is essential to reduce the nicotine dose over time, because otherwise there is a risk of addiction to e-cigarettes. It is therefore recommended to be accompanied by a professional to achieve the weaning goal.
Alternative medicine
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Alternative medicine refers to natural practices that help treat the symptoms associated with quitting smoking. They are often seen as complementary solutions to traditional methods. Among them, we find:
- Homeopathy : It is based on the use of highly diluted natural substances to reduce anxiety, cravings and withdrawal symptoms, by stimulating the body's self-healing abilities. Remedies such as “Nux vomica” or “Lobelia” can be used to support smoking cessation.
- L’aromatherapy : It uses essential oils, such as lavender and peppermint, to calm the nerves and reduce cravings. Essential oils can be diffused into the air or inhaled to promote relaxation.
- Phytotherapy : It consists of using the medicinal properties of plants to prevent or relieve various disorders. Plants can be used in the form of infusions, powders or liquid extracts to be diluted in water. Certain plants like “St. John’s wort” (which helps reduce anxiety) or “valerian” (which calms the nervous system) are particularly beneficial in supporting the weaning process.
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