Quitting smoking is very difficult for most people. Nicotine is a highly addictive substance that causes both physical and emotional withdrawal symptoms when it is taken away. Some people choose nicotine replacement therapy as a method of giving up cigarettes, while others choose to eliminate nicotine from their lives completely. Some people use herbal remedies to quit smoking. There are a variety of herbs that may be useful when trying to give up nicotine.

One of the most surprising remedies for those giving up cigarettes is oat tincture. Oats are packed with therapeutic alkaloids which may impart a calming effect. For the mental and physical anxiety which comes with nicotine withdrawal, herbs such as passionflower and valerian may help calm the nerves. Kava kava is a popular anti-anxiety herb but there is some controversy surrounding it as recent studies have shown it may have an adverse effect on liver function. If you experience mild depression during your quit, St. John’s Wort may be helpful.

Lobelia is a common herb used for smoking cessation. Lobelia contains a substance which affects the body like nicotine but is not addictive like nicotine. Some people switch from their regular cigarettes to Indian tobacco, which does not contain nicotine. Others choose nicotine-free cigarettes made with a variety of aromatic herbs. It is important to understand that nicotine-free cigarettes are by no means safe.

Any time you inhale smoke into your lungs, you are taking a risk. If you want the feel of smoking without actually doing it, there are smokeless, nicotine free cigarettes which impart a cinnamon or mint flavor when puffed on. You don’t light them, but use them for pretend smoking which can calm the nerves while you’re quitting. To help repair the lungs and remove buildup from years of smoking, herbs like mullein, horehound and slippery elm can provide some benefit when taken as a lozenge or tea.

These days, you will find many herbal remedies to quit smoking packaged and advertised most everywhere. CigArrest and SmokeRX are examples of products which take a natural approach. These products usually come with homeopathic or herbal remedies, vitamins, motivational reading materials and instructional CDs or DVDs. By using safe and effective herbs as part of your cigarette cessation program, you can increase your chances of success.