MAILBAG! Seven Steps for Easing Essential Tremors

By Dr. Scott Olson, ND Posted July 26, 2022

I suffer from an essential tremor in my left hand. Do you know of any ways to manage it?

–Eddie from Jacksonville, FL

Eddie,

Typically, essential tremors are not harmful, but they can be very aggravating.

Most notice tremors start in the hands; however, they can occur in neck muscles or voice muscles.

When they start out, they’re hardly noticeable, but eventually, the tremors can worsen to the point that it’s difficult to button your clothes or even hold a fork and knife.

Now, in medicine, the word “essential” is used to describe something where the cause is unknown.

And this is true of essential tremors – we’re not sure what causes them. Studies point to a part of the brain called the cerebellum (which helps control movement balance) and the lack of a brain molecule called GABA.

That is the bad news. The good news is that getting healthy is your best plan for reducing tremors.

Start with these seven steps:

1. Reduce Coffee: The caffeine in coffee makes it easier for nerves and muscles to fire. This means you’re much more likely to shake when you drink coffee. You don’t have to stop drinking coffee, just consider reducing how much you drink or try decaffeinated.
2. Exercise: This may sound backward, but strengthening the muscles in your arms and hands often helps people with tremors. I generally don’t suggest you use weights because of the risk of dropping them, so use exercise bands (resistance training) instead.
3. Relax: You may notice that your tremors get worse when you’re tired or upset. The stress hormones in your body (mainly cortisol) can increase the intensity of tremors. To keep these hormones low, make sure you’re getting enough sleep, and exercise, then take calming herbs such as chamomile, hops, and passionflower.
4. GABA: I’ve seen GABA work for some people, but not for everyone. You can buy this at any health food store or online.
5. Magnesium: One mineral most of us don’t get enough of is magnesium. This mineral is essential for muscle relaxation.
6. B- Vitamins: Every part of the nervous system requires B vitamins. I like a multi-B vitamin called B complex.
7. Essential Fatty Acids: Fish oils or omega-3 fatty acids are essential for brain and nerve function.

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Written By Dr. Scott Olson, ND

Nearly 25 years ago, failed mainstream medical treatments left Dr. Olson in constant pain – and his health in ruins. And that’s when he did something REVOLUTIONARY. He began his career in medicine – and dedicated his life to uncovering the true, underlying causes of disease.
Through his innovative medical practices in Tennessee and Colorado, Dr. Olson has helped cure countless seniors from across America of arthritis… heart disease… diabetes… and even cancer. All without risky prescription drugs or painful surgeries.

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