TCM helps to quit smoke by using acupuncture, auricular (ear) acupuncture, and herbal medicine.

By stimulating the Lung, Liver, and Spleen organ systems, the body begins to process toxins and heavy metals accumulated from tobacco use. Using acupuncture and the correct Chinese herbal formula, your body will promote the smooth flow of energy in the Liver, balance the digestive tracts and the absorptive function (which is governed by the Spleen organ system), regulate Lung energy, calm the mind, increase energy levels, and reduce symptoms from quit smoking syndrome. These functions help the body eliminate the chemicals introduced by cigarettes and to deal with the difficulties associated with quitting.

The Chinese have thoroughly documented the use of auricular acupuncture to help quit smoking. In clinical trails, its use increased a bitter taste in the mouth when smoking cigarettes and it reduced cravings. Both smoking and nonsmoking groups experienced a reduction in perceiving salty, sweet, and sour flavors. Only the smoking group experienced an increase in the bitter taste while smoking, especially at the root of the tongue. The bitter taste may be caused by the process of nicotine detoxification. At the onset of the desire to smoke, pressing the ear tacks or beads (inserted during treatment) helps to reduce cravings. A strong desire to quit smoking is necessary;

acupuncture alone cannot overcome this powerful addiction. Increasing the bitter flavor while smoking, however, can encourage a motivated person to quit.To form a treatment plan, several factors are considered based on the individual smoking history. The degree of addiction to nicotine, including the length of time cigarettes have been smoked, and how many cigarettes are smoked per day will largely determine the number of treatments needed. Other important considerations include the individual unique constitution and the function of their primary organ systems responsible for detoxification, the Lung, Liver, Kidney and Spleen.

The number of visits required generally varies from two to four treatments, once per week. The patient will reduce the number of cigarettes they smoke, gradually reduce the physiological and psychological dependence on the nicotine, and thus break free from the behavioral pattern associated with smoking.

The WHO (World Health Organization) cites 104 different conditions that acupuncture can successfully treat. This includes addictions of all kinds including food, tobacco, alcohol, and drugs.