For substance addiction, I always start with ear points, with the goal of reducing anxiety, promoting sound sleep, and decreasing cravings for alcohol, drugs, or cigarettes.
In the U.S., the National Acupuncture Detoxification Association (NADA), standardised a 3- to 5-point ear acupuncture protocol. It has evolved into the most widely implemented acupuncture-assisted protocol, not only for substance abuse but also for broad behavioral health applications.
This paper concluded ” This review demonstrates the mounting evidence that the NADA protocol has positive effects on a host of measures, populations, and treatment modalities. It is striking that many of the studies reveal NADA’s effectiveness with populations often considered to be the most difficult to treat.” (1)