Withdrawal from nicotine is one of the biggest hurdles for quitting smoking, but there are some supplements that can assist with the symptoms of nicotine withdrawal and improve overall health. Regular use of some herbs can help a person adjust to a nicotine-free lifestyle.
Lobelia
Lobelia, sometimes referred to as Indian tobacco, contains lobeline, a substance similar to nicotine that can curve cravings for nicotine, according to University of Maryland Medical Center. Lobeline is nonaddictive herb used to treat nicotine withdrawal, but it is not currently approved by the FDA as an herb to help stop smoking. The active ingredient lobeline has a similar effect on the body as nicotine. Lobeline can also dilate bronchioles and encourage the respiratory system to rid excess phlegm from the lungs. Side effects of this herb include profuse sweating, hypothermia, vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, tremors, confusion, rapid heart beat, convulsions, mental confusion, coma, and possibly even death and should be used under the supervision of a heath-care practitioner, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. People with underlying medical conditions should consult a physician before starting on lobelia.
St. John's Wort
St. Johns's Wort, also known as hypericum perforatum, works on "nervous disorders," states the University of Maryland Medical Center. The herb hypericum works to cure aliments of the skin, infections, hemorrhoids, depression, and the respiratory system. St. John's Wort is also a mood- enhancing herb used for depression. Hypericum perforatum is one of the best herbal supplements to help smokers quit the nicotine habit, according to Complementary Therapies in Medicine. St. John's Wort can interfere with medications, and is not recommended for women who are nursing or pregnant. This herbal supplement should be used under the guidance of a health-care professional.
Oat Straw
Oat straw, also known as Avina sativa, is one of the best documented herbal treatments to quit smoking, according to Peace Health. The active ingredients in oat straw, avenine glycosides and avenine, work to stimulate the central nervous system and increase blood flow, which can ease the withdrawal symptoms of nicotine addiction.
Valerian
Valeriana offcinalis, also called valerian, is an herb that acts as a sedative. The use of a natural sedative can calm an individual going through nicotine withdrawal. Valerian can combine with lemon balm and St. John's Wort to act as an antidepressant. This herb should be added to a daily medication regimen only after speaking to a physician, due to the number of contraindications.
Ginseng and Other Herbs
The natural herb ginseng can decrease stress levels, according to Quit Smoking Advice, making it easier to quit smoking. Peppermint and cinnamon bark are common herbs found in quit-smoking formulas, states Vitamin Diary.
