Symptom family: Tremors

Sub-symptom(s): Fine Tremor Essential Tremor

What is Tremors?

Tremors refer to involuntary, rhythmic muscle contractions leading to shaking movements in one or more parts of the body. They are commonly observed in the hands and can extend to the head, voice, arms, or legs.

Tremors are often a symptom of neurological disorders but can occur in otherwise healthy individuals. Known as fine tremor or essential tremor in more specific terms, these movements can vary in severity and frequency, affecting daily activities and quality of life.

How does TCM view Tremors?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) perceives tremors as an indication of internal imbalance, primarily involving the body's vital energy or Qi, Blood, and the harmony between Yin and Yang.

TCM does not view tremors solely as a neurological issue but as a symptom arising from systemic disharmony. TCM practitioners focus on identifying and correcting the underlying patterns of imbalance, using a holistic approach to restore the body's natural equilibrium.

Root Causes of Tremors in TCM

In TCM, tremors are often attributed to two primary causes. The first involves the disturbance of Internal Wind, often due to Liver Blood Deficiency or Liver Fire. Symptoms accompanying this pattern include irritability, dizziness, headaches, and sometimes a flushed face.

The second common cause is Blood Stagnation, where the circulation of Blood is hindered, leading to symptoms like dark complexion, fixed stabbing pain, and menstrual irregularities. Understanding these patterns is crucial for TCM practitioners to provide effective treatment.

Explore below more details about what might cause Tremors according to TCM.

  • By Syndrome
  • By Organ
  • Liver
Detailed description of the cause

Wind

In TCM "Wind" is a concept that represents a pattern of disharmony, often characterized by its sudden and unpredictable nature, much like a gusty wind changing direction without warning. This pattern is associated with symptoms that come and go quickly or move around the body, such as itching, tremors, or even certain types of pain. Wind is considered to be a primary cause of illnesses that have these rapidly changing characteristics. In TCM, external Wind often refers to illnesses that start suddenly, like the common cold, believed to be caused by external pathogenic factors like climatic changes. On the other hand, internal Wind can be linked to internal imbalances and can manifest in conditions like dizziness or spasms. ... see more

Wind Patterns That Can Lead to Tremors

Common Symptoms: Dizziness Headaches Limb Numbness Poor Memory Insomnia Dry Throat Blurry Vision Vivid Dreaming

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Interior Wind Tremor, Convulsions, Hand tremor, Dizziness, Paralysis, Coma, Tic disorder, Mouth deviation, Eye deviation, Tremors, Headaches, Limb numbness... see more Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin | Ling Jiao Gou Teng Tang | Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | E Jiao Ji Zi Huang Tang | Zhen Gan Xi Feng Tang | Bu Gan Tang | Si Wu Tang
Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Fire Tremor, Tremors, Irritability, Anger, Tinnitus, Deafness, Temporal headache, Dizziness, Flushed face, Eye hyperemia, Thirst, Bitter taste in the mouth, Vivid dreaming, Constipation, Dry stools, Dark urine, Nosebleeds, Vomiting blood, Cough of blood... see more Ling Jiao Gou Teng Tang | Zi Xue Dan | Feng Yin Tang
Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising Tremor, Tremors, Facial tic, Severe dizziness, Tinnitus, Headaches, Hypertension, Dry throat, Dry eyes, Blurry vision, Limb numbness, Tingling of limbs, Poor memory, Back pain, Oliguria, Night sweats... see more Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | E Jiao Ji Zi Huang Tang | Zhen Gan Xi Feng Tang | Feng Yin Tang
Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Blood Deficiency Fine tremor, Facial tic, Dizziness, Blurry vision, Limb numbness, Tingling of limbs, Poor memory, Insomnia, Scanty menstruation... see more E Jiao Ji Zi Huang Tang | Bu Gan Tang | Si Wu Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Blood Stasis

Blood Stasis in TCM is a concept where the blood flow in the body is not as smooth or efficient as it should be. Imagine a river that's supposed to flow freely, but instead, it's getting blocked or moving too slowly in some parts. This can lead to various health issues, like pain that feels sharp or stabbing, dark bruises, and a complexion that looks purplish. TCM believes that good health relies on the smooth and vibrant flow of Qi and blood throughout the body, so when blood gets stuck, it's like a traffic jam in your body, leading to discomfort or health problems.... see more

Blood Stasis Patterns That Can Lead to Tremors

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Blood Stagnation Tremor, Dark face, Purple lips, Stabbing fixed pain, Abdominal masses, Purple nails, Menstrual cramps, Dark menstrual clots, Dark menstrual blood, Lumps... see more Tao He Cheng Qi Tang | Da Huang Mu Dan Pi Tang | Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan | Di Dang Tang | Dan Shen Yin | Da Huang Zhe Chong Wan | San Zhong Kui Jian Tang | Hai Tong Pi Tang | Huang Qi Gui Zhi Wu Wu Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Yang Excess

Yang Excess in TCM refers to a state where there is an overabundance of Yang energy, leading to symptoms of heat and hyperactivity in the body. This pattern of disharmony often arises from factors like stress, excessive physical activity, overconsumption of spicy or heating foods, or an internal imbalance that causes Yang to flare up. Symptoms of Yang Excess include a feeling of heat, red face, irritability, restlessness, thirst, constipation, and a rapid, forceful pulse. Treatment in TCM for Yang Excess aims to cool down and subdue the excessive Yang while nurturing Yin energy to restore balance.... see more

Yang Excess Patterns That Can Lead to Tremors

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising Tremor, Tremors, Facial tic, Severe dizziness, Tinnitus, Headaches, Hypertension, Dry throat, Dry eyes, Blurry vision, Limb numbness, Tingling of limbs, Poor memory, Back pain, Oliguria, Night sweats... see more Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | E Jiao Ji Zi Huang Tang | Zhen Gan Xi Feng Tang | Feng Yin Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Blood Deficiency

Blood Deficiency in TCM is like when your body's tank runs low on the vital energy that blood provides. It's not exactly the same as anemia in modern medicine, which is about having too few red blood cells. Instead, Blood Deficiency in TCM is about your body not having enough of the life-giving qualities that blood brings, like nourishment and moisture. This can make you feel tired, look pale, and even feel dizzy or have blurry vision. It's like a garden not getting enough water to stay lush and vibrant. TCM sees this as an imbalance where the body isn't being nourished as it should be, impacting overall health and well-being.... see more

Blood Deficiency Patterns That Can Lead to Tremors

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Blood Deficiency Fine tremor, Facial tic, Dizziness, Blurry vision, Limb numbness, Tingling of limbs, Poor memory, Insomnia, Scanty menstruation... see more E Jiao Ji Zi Huang Tang | Bu Gan Tang | Si Wu Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Heat

In TCM "Heat" signifies an excess of Yang energy, leading to an imbalance where heat predominates over the body's cool Yin aspects. This condition is metaphorically akin to an internal over-heating. Symptoms indicative of Heat can include feelings of warmth, fever, sweating, irritability, red face, thirst with a preference for cold drinks, and a rapid pulse. The tongue may appear red with a yellow coating. Unlike the common interpretation of heat in terms of temperature, in TCM, it represents a state of hyperactivity or inflammation in the body.... see more

Heat Patterns That Can Lead to Tremors

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Fire Tremor, Tremors, Irritability, Anger, Tinnitus, Deafness, Temporal headache, Dizziness, Flushed face, Eye hyperemia, Thirst, Bitter taste in the mouth, Vivid dreaming, Constipation, Dry stools, Dark urine, Nosebleeds, Vomiting blood, Cough of blood... see more Ling Jiao Gou Teng Tang | Zi Xue Dan | Feng Yin Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Liver

In TCM the Liver is viewed as the organ responsible for the smooth flow of Qi, Blood, and emotions throughout the body. It plays a key role in regulating mood, storing blood, supporting digestion, and ensuring the health of tendons and eyes. When the Liver malfunctions or is imbalanced in TCM, it can lead to a range of issues such as irritability, mood swings, menstrual irregularities, eye problems, and muscular stiffness or pain. A malfunctioning Liver in TCM reflects not only physical disturbances but also emotional and mental disharmony, emphasizing the holistic approach of TCM in addressing health and wellness.... see more

Liver Patterns That Can Lead to Tremors

Common Symptoms: Dizziness Tinnitus Vivid Dreaming Facial Tic Headaches Hypertension Dry Throat Blurry Vision

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Fire Tremor, Tremors, Irritability, Anger, Tinnitus, Deafness, Temporal headache, Dizziness, Flushed face, Eye hyperemia, Thirst, Bitter taste in the mouth, Vivid dreaming, Constipation, Dry stools, Dark urine, Nosebleeds, Vomiting blood, Cough of blood... see more Ling Jiao Gou Teng Tang | Zi Xue Dan | Feng Yin Tang
Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising Tremor, Tremors, Facial tic, Severe dizziness, Tinnitus, Headaches, Hypertension, Dry throat, Dry eyes, Blurry vision, Limb numbness, Tingling of limbs, Poor memory, Back pain, Oliguria, Night sweats... see more Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | E Jiao Ji Zi Huang Tang | Zhen Gan Xi Feng Tang | Feng Yin Tang
Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Blood Deficiency Fine tremor, Facial tic, Dizziness, Blurry vision, Limb numbness, Tingling of limbs, Poor memory, Insomnia, Scanty menstruation... see more E Jiao Ji Zi Huang Tang | Bu Gan Tang | Si Wu Tang

TCM Herbal Formulas for Tremors

To address tremors, TCM suggests specific formulas based on the identified pattern. For treating Internal Wind due to Liver Blood Deficiency, E Jiao Ji Zi Huang Tang, which includes Donkey-Hide Gelatin, nourishes the Blood and calms the Wind. In cases of Liver Wind stirred by Liver Fire, Ling Jiao Gou Teng Tang, containing Saiga antelope's horns, pacifies Liver Wind and clears Heat.

For Blood Stagnation, Tao He Cheng Qi Tang, with Peach Kernels, is used to invigorate Blood and dispel Stagnation. These formulas are tailored to address the root cause of tremors, aligning with the patient's unique pattern of disharmony.

Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address tremors, organized by cause and by formula type.

  • By Cause
  • By Formula Type
  • Formulas that invigorate blood and dispel blood stagnation
  • Formulas that pacify and extinguish internal wind
  • Formulas that tonify blood
  • Formulas that nourish yin and tonify
  • Formulas that clear internal abscesses and sores
  • Formulas that clear external abscesses and sores
  • External formulas for external disorders
  • Formulas that warm the meridians and disperse cold
  • Formulas that clear heat and open sensory orifices
  • Formulas that dredge and disperse external wind
  • Formulas that warm and transform water and dampness

All Formulas Recommended for Tremors Caused by Wind

Formula Patterns Suitable For
E Jiao Ji Zi Huang Tang Interior Wind, Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising, Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Blood Deficiency... see more
Ling Jiao Gou Teng Tang Interior Wind, Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Fire
Liu Wei Di Huang Wan Interior Wind, Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising
Qi Ju Di Huang Wan Interior Wind, Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising
Zhen Gan Xi Feng Tang Interior Wind, Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising
Bu Gan Tang Interior Wind, Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Blood Deficiency
Si Wu Tang Interior Wind, Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Blood Deficiency
Feng Yin Tang Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Fire, Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising... see more
Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin Interior Wind
Zi Xue Dan Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Fire

All Formulas Recommended for Tremors Caused by Blood Stasis

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Tao He Cheng Qi Tang Blood Stagnation
Da Huang Mu Dan Pi Tang Blood Stagnation
Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan Blood Stagnation
Di Dang Tang Blood Stagnation
Dan Shen Yin Blood Stagnation
Da Huang Zhe Chong Wan Blood Stagnation
San Zhong Kui Jian Tang Blood Stagnation
Hai Tong Pi Tang Blood Stagnation
Huang Qi Gui Zhi Wu Wu Tang Blood Stagnation

All Formulas Recommended for Tremors Caused by Yang Excess

Formula Patterns Suitable For
E Jiao Ji Zi Huang Tang Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising
Liu Wei Di Huang Wan Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising
Qi Ju Di Huang Wan Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising
Zhen Gan Xi Feng Tang Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising
Feng Yin Tang Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising

All Formulas Recommended for Tremors Caused by Blood Deficiency

Formula Patterns Suitable For
E Jiao Ji Zi Huang Tang Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Blood Deficiency
Bu Gan Tang Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Blood Deficiency
Si Wu Tang Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Blood Deficiency

All Formulas Recommended for Tremors Caused by Heat

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Ling Jiao Gou Teng Tang Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Fire
Feng Yin Tang Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Fire
Zi Xue Dan Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Fire

All "formulas that pacify and extinguish internal wind" recommended for tremors

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
E Jiao Ji Zi Huang Tang Interior Wind, Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising, Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Blood Deficiency... see more
Ling Jiao Gou Teng Tang Interior Wind, Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Fire
Zhen Gan Xi Feng Tang Interior Wind, Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising
Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin Interior Wind

All "formulas that tonify blood" recommended for tremors

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Bu Gan Tang Interior Wind, Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Blood Deficiency
Si Wu Tang Interior Wind, Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Blood Deficiency
Shao Yao Gan Cao Tang Not applicable

All "formulas that nourish yin and tonify" recommended for tremors

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Liu Wei Di Huang Wan Interior Wind, Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising
Qi Ju Di Huang Wan Interior Wind, Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Yang Rising

All "formulas that invigorate blood and dispel blood stagnation" recommended for tremors

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Tao He Cheng Qi Tang Blood Stagnation
Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan Blood Stagnation
Di Dang Tang Blood Stagnation
Dan Shen Yin Blood Stagnation
Da Huang Zhe Chong Wan Blood Stagnation

Acupoints for Tremors

TCM also incorporates acupuncture in treating tremors. Points like Shenmai BL-62, located below the lateral malleolus, and Danshu BL-19 near the thoracic vertebra, are used for their ability to regulate Qi and clear Wind.

Houxi SI-3 on the hand benefits the sinews and expels Wind, while Shenzhu DU-12 on the back calms the Mind and clears Lung Heat. These acupoints are selected based on their effectiveness in addressing the specific patterns causing tremors, providing a complementary approach to herbal treatments.

Explore below some acupoints used to address tremors, organized by meridian.

  • By Meridian
  • Bladder Channel
  • Small Intestine Channel
  • Governing Vessel
Danshu BL-19

Danshu BL-19

1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the 10th thoracic vertebra (T10).

Shenmai BL-62

Shenmai BL-62

In the depression directly below the lateral malleolus tip.

Houxi SI-3

Houxi SI-3

Proximal to the head of the 5th metacarpal bone on the ulnar side, in the depression at the junction of the red and white skin.

Shenzhu DU-12

Shenzhu DU-12

On the back midline, in the depression below the spinous process of the 3th thoracic vertebra (T3).