Thinking of quitting smoking? Then begin with the acronym "START." According to the SmokeFree.gov website, START stands for: S: set a date, T: talk with family and friends about your plan, A: anticipate the challenge, R: remove cigarettes from the home, the car and the office and T: talk with a health care professional for help and advice. Using a herbal remedy is an option in overcoming the habit of smoking. Some of these herbs include lobelia, avena sativa and skullcap.
Lobelia
Lobelia contains lobeline, an active ingredient thought to have similar effect on your body as nicotine. It was used as a nicotine substitute in anti-smoking products until in 1993, when the Food and Drug Administration, or FDA, prohibited the sale of products with lobeline. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, researchers now think lobeline may reduce the effects of nicotine in the body as well as having the potential to treat drug addiction. Further studies need to be done to determine the effectiveness of lobeline. Lobelia is a toxic herb when used in moderate to large doses. If you use this herb, it should be done under the advice and supervision of a physician.
Avena Sativa
Avena sativa is commonly called oat grass or oat straw. Avena sativa is used in folk medicine to treat nervous exhaustion and insomnia. According to the PDRHealth website, avena sativa is a herbal medicine used to treat several conditions, one of which is nicotine withdrawal; other conditions include anxiety and insomnia and sexual problems. It's important to consult your health care practitioner before taking avena sativa during pregnancy or while breast feeding, and so should individuals with high blood pressure, heart or blood vessel problems. According to the PDRHealth website, individuals who are allergic to any prescription medications, dietary supplements or over-the-counter products should consult with a physician before taking avena sativa. Symptoms including skin rash or hives with itching, chest pains or tightness of the chest or throat are signs of an allergic reaction. Seek immediate emergency medical care if you have any of these signs while taking avena sativa.
Skullcap
Skullcap, or Scutellaria lateriflora, a perennial herb native to North America, is a nervine plant, or a herb with a sedative effect that helps to calm ruffled nerves, anxiety and hysteria. According to the Herbal Supplement Resource website, skullcap is useful in treating the symptoms of withdrawal from barbiturates and tranquilizers. Smokers trying to quit usually experience symptoms of withdrawal that may be helped by using skullcap. Symptoms of withdrawal according to Medline Plus may include anxiety, headaches, irritability and insomnia as well as an intense desire for nicotine.
