Essential Tremor is a neurological movement disorder that causes rhythmic shaking, most commonly in the hands, but it can also affect:
• the head
• voice
• jaw
• arms
• legs
The tremor usually happens during movement or when holding a posture, such as:
• holding a cup
• writing
• using utensils
• typing
Unlike Parkinson’s Disease, essential tremor is usually less associated with stiffness, slowed movement, or balance problems early on. It is one of the most common movement disorders and can run in families.
Supplements commonly explored for essential tremor
Magnesium
Magnesium is one of the most commonly used supplements for nervous system calming and muscle regulation. Low magnesium can contribute to:
• muscle excitability
• nerve overstimulation
• twitching
• poor stress tolerance
Forms like magnesium glycinate or magnesium taurate are often preferred because they are gentler on digestion and may support relaxation and sleep.
CBD
Cannabidiol is being explored for tremor-related disorders because it may help calm nervous system overactivity, reduce anxiety, improve sleep, and lower muscle tension. Some people with tremors report symptom improvement, especially when stress is a major trigger, although human evidence is still limited and mixed.
Full-spectrum CBD products may have stronger effects for some individuals because of the combined cannabinoids and terpenes.
L-Theanine
L-Theanine is an amino acid from green tea that may promote calm focus without sedation. It may help reduce stress-triggered tremors by influencing alpha brain wave activity and neurotransmitters such as GABA.
GABA-supportive supplements
Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid, taurine, magnesium, and calming herbs may support inhibitory nervous system signaling. Essential tremor may involve altered GABA pathways in the cerebellum.
Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha may help lower cortisol and nervous system stress. For some people, reducing stress significantly reduces tremor intensity.
Omega-3 fatty acids
Omega-3 fatty acids may support brain and nerve health by reducing neuroinflammation and supporting cell membrane function.
B vitamins
Vitamin B12 and other B vitamins support nerve function. Deficiencies — especially B12 deficiency — can sometimes worsen neurological symptoms including shakiness and neuropathy.
Turmeric / Curcumin
Turmeric may support brain health through anti-inflammatory and antioxidant pathways, though direct evidence for essential tremor is limited.
