How to Support Your Body in Detoxing from Nicotine

Nicotine triggers a dopamine rush, reinforcing addiction and affecting multiple neurotransmitters. Supporting detox processes and balancing neurotransmitters can ease withdrawal.

Nicotine and Detoxing

Nicotine is a powerful addictive substance that triggers a significant rush of dopamine, the brain’s “feel-good” neurotransmitter. This rush reinforces the behaviour, leading to dependency as the body becomes reliant on nicotine to release dopamine. But nicotine doesn't just affect dopamine—it also influences other important neurotransmitters like serotonin, GABA, acetylcholine, norepinephrine, and glutamate, albeit in smaller amounts. Over time, your body starts to rely on nicotine for the release of these chemicals, making it harder to feel good without it.

When you quit smoking, your body goes through a process of healing and detoxification. Nicotine plays a role in regulating phase two of detoxification in the liver, and when you stop smoking, it can slow down this process. This can cause a buildup of toxins from phase one, which were previously cleared through phase two, leading to some uncomfortable symptoms during withdrawal. Another common issue is a persistent cough—this is a good sign that your lungs are detoxifying and beginning to heal.

In addition to managing the psychological aspect of nicotine withdrawal, it’s important to support your body’s detoxification processes. Helping to balance neurotransmitters and support organ detox (liver, lungs, and bowels) can ease the process and reduce discomfort.

Here are some natural remedies that can be particularly helpful

1. L-Theanine
L-theanine is known for its ability to modulate neurotransmitter activity, making it effective in reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation during the withdrawal process. It can help you feel more centred and less stressed as your body adjusts to life without nicotine.

2. Passionflower
Rodent studies have shown that passionflower can significantly reduce addictive tendencies. This herb may help curb the psychological cravings for nicotine and support emotional stability during detox.

3. Mullein and NAC (N-Acetylcysteine)
Mullein and NAC are both excellent for breaking up mucus and helping to expel it from the lungs. This can ease the discomfort of a cough as your body works to clear out toxins and heal your respiratory system.

5. Supporting Phase Two Detox
To support the liver in phase two of detoxification, consider herbs like St. Mary’s Thistle, Dandelion Root, Turmeric, and Green Tea. These herbs promote liver health and help your body process and eliminate toxins more efficiently. Additionally, NAC is a powerful antioxidant that supports both phase one and phase two liver detox.

6. Digestive Health
Make sure you are supporting your digestive health by eliminating your bowels regularly. A healthy bowel movement is essential for clearing out toxins, and ensuring proper digestion will help you feel better overall as you quit smoking.

7. Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water is vital during detox, as it helps flush toxins from your body through urine and sweat.

Disclaimer: Please note that herbs and nutrients can interact with medications and may not be suitable for everyone. Before incorporating any new supplements or herbal remedies into your routine, it’s important to consult a qualified healthcare practitioner, especially if you are currently on medication or have any underlying health conditions.

References:

Alkhlaif, Y., El-Halawany, M., Toma, W., Park, A., Hamouda, A. K., & Damaj, M. I. (2023). L-theanine attenuates nicotine reward and withdrawal signs in mice. Neuroscience Letters, 807, 137279. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neulet.2023.137279

Bedell, S., Wells, J., Liu, Q., & Breivogel, C. (2019). Vitexin as an active ingredient in passion flower with potential as an agent for nicotine cessation: vitexin antagonism of the expression of nicotine locomotor sensitization in rats. Pharmaceutical biology, 57(1), 8–12. https://doi.org/10.1080/13880209.2018.1561725

Benowitz N. L. (2009). Pharmacology of nicotine: addiction, smoking-induced disease, and therapeutics. Annual review of pharmacology and toxicology, 49, 57–71. https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev.pharmtox.48.113006.094742

Meziu, E., Shehu, K., Koch, M., Schneider, M., & Kraegeloh, A. (2023). Impact of mucus modulation by N-acetylcysteine on nanoparticle toxicity. International Journal of Pharmaceutics: X, 6, 100212. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijpx.2023.100212