Essential tremor (ET) is a neurological condition characterized by involuntary shaking or trembling, often affecting the hands, head, voice, and sometimes other parts of the body. It is one of the most common movement disorders and can significantly impact a person’s quality of life. While the exact cause of essential tremor is still not fully understood, it is believed to involve abnormal brain activity that affects the motor control centers.
For those suffering from essential tremor, medications and surgeries may offer some relief. However, many people turn to essential tremor herbal treatment and natural remedies to alleviate their symptoms. These remedies can help manage tremors, reduce anxiety, and improve overall well-being without relying solely on pharmaceuticals. 10 natural remedies that can help reduce essential tremor symptoms quickly and effectively.
1. Valerian Root
Valerian root is one of the most popular herbal remedies for various neurological conditions, including essential tremor. It is known for its calming and sedative effects, which can help reduce muscle spasms and involuntary shaking. The root has a long history of use in traditional medicine for promoting relaxation and improving sleep quality, making it a great option for managing essential tremor.
How it helps: Valerian root works by enhancing the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter that helps calm nerve activity. By increasing GABA levels, valerian root may help reduce the intensity of tremors.
How to use: Valerian root can be consumed in the form of capsules, tinctures, or teas. It is important to follow the dosage instructions on the product label to avoid excessive sedation.
2. Ginkgo Biloba
Ginkgo biloba is another popular herbal remedy that is often used to improve circulation and cognitive function. For individuals with essential tremor, ginkgo biloba may be beneficial in improving blood flow to the brain, which may, in turn, reduce the frequency and severity of tremors.
How it helps: Ginkgo biloba is known for its ability to improve blood circulation by dilating blood vessels and preventing blood clots. This can help improve oxygen and nutrient delivery to the brain, potentially reducing tremor symptoms.
How to use: Ginkgo biloba is available in various forms, including capsules, tablets, and liquid extracts. It is recommended to take 120-240 mg per day, divided into two or three doses.
3. Magnesium Supplements
Magnesium is an essential mineral that plays a vital role in muscle function and nerve signaling. A deficiency in magnesium can lead to muscle cramps, spasms, and tremors. Supplementing with magnesium may help reduce the intensity of essential tremor symptoms and provide overall relief.
How it helps: Magnesium helps regulate nerve function and supports muscle relaxation. By restoring proper magnesium levels, it may help alleviate the involuntary muscle contractions that cause tremors.
How to use: Magnesium supplements are available in various forms, such as magnesium citrate, magnesium glycinate, and magnesium oxide. The typical recommended dose is 200-400 mg per day.
4. CBD Oil (Cannabidiol)
CBD oil, derived from the hemp plant, has been gaining popularity as a natural treatment for various health conditions, including essential tremor. While research is still ongoing, many people report positive results in managing tremors and anxiety through the use of CBD oil.
How it helps: CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in regulating various functions, including motor control. It has calming effects and may help reduce the intensity of tremors and improve overall motor function.
How to use: CBD oil can be taken sublingually (under the tongue) for fast absorption. Dosages vary depending on individual needs, but it is recommended to start with a low dose (around 10-20 mg) and gradually increase as needed.
5. Passionflower
Passionflower is another calming herb that has been used for centuries to treat anxiety, insomnia, and muscle spasms. It has a mild sedative effect, which may help reduce the tremors associated with essential tremor.
How it helps: Passionflower works by increasing GABA levels in the brain, similar to valerian root. This helps calm the nervous system and reduce excessive shaking.
How to use: Passionflower can be consumed as a tea, tincture, or in capsule form. A typical dosage is 250-500 mg of passionflower extract daily.
6. B Vitamins (Especially B1 and B12)
B vitamins, particularly vitamin B1 (thiamine) and vitamin B12, play a crucial role in maintaining proper nerve function. A deficiency in these vitamins has been linked to neurological disorders, including essential tremor. Supplementing with B vitamins may help support nerve health and reduce tremor symptoms.
How it helps: Vitamin B1 is essential for nerve function, while vitamin B12 helps maintain the myelin sheath, which protects nerves. Adequate levels of these vitamins can improve overall nervous system health and may reduce tremors.
How to use: B vitamins are commonly available in multivitamin supplements or as individual B-complex pills. It is recommended to take a B-complex supplement that includes B1 and B12 daily.
7. L-Theanine
L-theanine is an amino acid found primarily in green tea. It is known for its calming effects and ability to reduce stress and anxiety. As stress can exacerbate tremor symptoms, L-theanine may be a helpful natural remedy for essential tremor.
How it helps: L-theanine promotes relaxation without causing drowsiness. It increases alpha brain wave activity, which helps calm the nervous system and may reduce tremor frequency.
How to use: L-theanine supplements are available in capsule or tablet form. A typical dose is 100-200 mg per day.
8. Essential Oils (Lavender and Frankincense)
Essential oils, particularly lavender and frankincense, have calming properties that can help reduce the severity of essential tremor symptoms. Aromatherapy with essential oils can help alleviate stress and anxiety, which may trigger or worsen tremors.
How it helps: Lavender essential oil has a soothing effect on the body and mind, while frankincense is known for its ability to reduce stress and improve emotional well-being. Both oils may help calm the nervous system, potentially reducing tremor symptoms.
How to use: Essential oils can be used in a diffuser, applied topically (when diluted with a carrier oil), or added to a warm bath. For best results, use the oils daily.
9. Acupressure and Acupuncture
Acupressure and acupuncture are traditional Chinese medicine practices that involve stimulating specific points on the body to promote healing and balance. These techniques have been used for centuries to treat various neurological conditions, including essential tremor.
How it helps: Acupuncture and acupressure can help restore balance to the body’s energy flow and relieve stress, which may reduce tremor symptoms. Several studies have suggested that acupuncture may improve motor function and reduce tremor severity.
How to use: It is recommended to seek a licensed acupuncturist for acupuncture treatment. Acupressure can be performed at home by applying gentle pressure to specific acupoints.
10. Regular Exercise
Regular physical activity is essential for overall health and can help manage many symptoms of essential tremor. Exercise improves circulation, reduces stress, and enhances muscle coordination, all of which can contribute to lessening tremor symptoms.
How it helps: Exercise helps improve motor control, enhances balance, and strengthens muscles, which may reduce the severity of tremors. Additionally, physical activity helps reduce stress and anxiety, both of which can worsen essential tremor.
How to use: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise, such as walking, swimming, or yoga, several times a week.
Conclusion
While there is no cure for essential tremor, these 10 natural remedies can be valuable tools in managing symptoms and improving the quality of life for those affected. From essential tremor herbal treatments like valerian root and ginkgo biloba to lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, these natural remedies offer a holistic approach to tremor relief.
Always consult with a healthcare provider before trying new treatments, especially if you are currently taking medications or have other health conditions. By incorporating these essential tremor natural remedies into your daily routine, you may find significant relief and regain control over your tremor symptoms.
