In this study we investigated the subjective effects of a *bad habit* substitute delivering a vapor of black pepper essential oil. Forty-eight *bad habit users* participated in a 3-h session conducted after overnight deprivation from *bad habit*. Subjects were randomly assigned to one of three conditions: one group of *users* puffed on a device that delivered a vapor from essential oil of black pepper; a second group puffed on the device with a mint/menthol cartridge, and a third group used a device containing an empty cartridge. Reported craving for *the bad habit* was significantly reduced in the pepper condition relative to each of the two control conditions. In addition, negative affect and somatic symptoms of anxiety were alleviated in the pepper condition relative to the unflavored placebo. The intensity of sensations in the chest was also significantly higher for the pepper condition. These results support the view that respiratory tract sensations are important in alleviating *bad habit* withdrawal symptoms, Substitutes delivering pepper constituents may prove useful in *bad habit* cessation treatment.