Nicotine is one of the most addictive substances known to man. It's powerful and very fast acting. This is the chemical which causes addiction to cigarettes.

• It is a drug and has many different effects on the body at the same time.
• After just one puff it begins to act on your central nervous system, brain and other parts of the body.  
• It actually stimulates your system, even though it makes you feel relaxed.
• Nicotine affects chemicals in your brain and, after a puff, you usually feel good for a moment or two, which is why many smokers view smoking as stress relief when under pressure.
• Some areas of the brain are pleasure related and when stimulated give the feeling of relaxation and reduced anxiety

Over time as you continue to smoke, your body learns to depend on nicotine. As a result when you stop smoking you get 'nicotine cravings' one of many different withdrawal symptoms