Essential Tremoraccording to TCM

What is Essential Tremor?

Essential tremor is a neurological condition characterized by rhythmic, involuntary shaking, commonly affecting the hands, head, and voice. It's one of the most prevalent tremor disorders, often mistaken for Parkinson's disease.

Known as benign essential tremor, essential tremor disorder, or familial tremor, this condition can vary in severity and may worsen over time. Unlike tremors caused by underlying conditions, essential tremor is considered idiopathic, meaning it has no identified cause.

How does TCM view Essential Tremor?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) approaches essential tremor as a manifestation of internal disharmony. Unlike Western medicine, which primarily focuses on the neurological aspects, TCM examines essential tremor in the context of the whole body's balance and energy flow.

In TCM, tremors are often linked to disruptions in the body's vital energy (Qi), Blood flow, and the balance of Yin and Yang. TCM practitioners aim to identify the unique pattern of imbalance in each individual and tailor treatment to restore internal harmony.

Causes of Essential Tremor According to TCM

In TCM, two primary patterns are often associated with essential tremor. The first is a Deficiency of Yang, leading to an accumulation of Cold-Dampness within the body. This condition impedes the smooth flow of Qi and Blood, resulting in tremors. Patients might exhibit symptoms like cold limbs, fatigue, and a pale complexion.

The second pattern involves a Deficiency in Liver and Spleen Blood. This condition leads to malnourishment of tendons and muscles, causing involuntary movements. Symptoms may include dizziness, blurred vision, and a general sense of weakness.

TCM Herbal Formulas for Essential Tremor

In treating essential tremor, TCM suggests various herbal formulas depending on the underlying pattern. For Yang Deficiency with Cold-Damp, Fu Zi Tang, containing Prepared aconite (Zhi Fu Zi), is used to warm the body and transform Dampness, thus enhancing Yang energy. This formula addresses the root cause of Cold-Damp accumulation.

For cases involving Spleen and Liver Blood Deficiency, Shao Yao Gan Cao Tang, with White Peony Roots (Bai Shao), is recommended. This formula nourishes the blood and ensures its free flow throughout the body, aiming to reduce tremors by addressing the deficiency at its source. In TCM, the choice of herbs and formulas is customized to each patient's unique pattern of disharmony.

Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address essential tremor, organized by formula type.

TCM Herbs for Essential Tremor

Explore below some TCM herbs used to address essential tremor, organized by herb category.