Introduction

 ​Essential tremor sometimes referred to as ‘ET’, is a nervous system disorder. It is a  chronic, progressive condition that can be debilitating often affecting activities of  daily living. Up to five percent of people aged 65 and older are at risk.  Despite how  common ET is, there is no cure, and at present few treatment options.   ET is more prevalent than Parkinson’s disease.  

What is Essential Tremor?

 ​Essential tremor is characterized by involuntary and rhythmic shaking, that can occur in any part of the body but more common in the hands when performing simple tasks, for instance, tying one’s shoes or drinking the morning coffee. The shaking typically occurs bilaterally.  However, ET can affect the arms, head, face, and larynx or voice-box which results in a shaky voice.  Individuals with ET go undiagnosed for a long time as the first symptoms are rather discreet and can easily be mistaken for transient tremors. Although not life- threatening, approximately 2.2% - 3% of Americans have ET making it eight times more prevalent than Parkinson’s disease. 

A comparison between ET and Parkinson’s shows differences.  In Parkinson’s disease the shakes occur when one is still and not moving or inactive which sets this condition apart from ET.  The shakes in ET are embarrassing and encumbering when it comes to functioning daily but not as debilitating.  ​

Essential tremor develops gradually over time with stress and fatigue to aggravate the condition further.  Some research studies link tremors to hereditary, or inheritance, however, there is no conclusive evidence that they are passed down from one individual to the next family member.  

How Does Cannabidiol or CBD Help with Essential Tremors?

 ​CBD can specifically impact the endocannabinoid system (ECS) receptors responsible for muscle movement.  This influence provides a state of equilibrium for the muscles, calming periodic, jerking movements.   In addition, CBD has potent neuroprotective properties that can help reduce the symptoms of stressors and inflammation in the nervous system and the release of pro-inflammatory chemicals that create harm.  

 ​CBD oil shows promise in the ability to fight tremors in a natural and non-invasive manner.  The cannabinoid CBD can target and regulate receptors in the endocannabinoid system responsible for muscle movement throughout the body. Muscles contract when chemical messengers are sent to the muscle tissue by the central nervous system.  If a large amount of these chemical messengers’ floods the muscle tissue, the area is continually stimulated to contract, leading to twitching, tremors, and tightness.  CBD oil has been shown to reduce the release of these chemical messengers, allowing the muscles to relax. 

Pertinent Research on Tremors and CBD ​

One of the issues with finding an effective treatment for ET is that its origin is not well understood.  A 2020 study performed on mice tested a variety of CBD doses revealing suppression of tremors with no unwanted side effects of impairment or sedation.  This finding could make CBD a potential alternative to pharmaceutical drugs that are taken with side effects.  CBD oil promotes relaxation, reduces inflammation, and soothes symptoms of tremors. ​Dr. Handforth, a researcher funded through the International Tremor Foundation, was able to note robust suppression of tremor in mice given CBD.  He also identified that CBD activates the 5HT1a receptors which suppresses tremor activity through the TRPV1 receptor.  His findings are tentative but need validation in human clinical trials. 

Strategic Dosing of CBD for Tremors 

​Everyone is uniquely different; therefore, dosing must be tailored to the person. The recommendation is to start slowly with the lowest recommended dose and increase gradually until you reach your desired dosage or effect.  There are several factors that come into play with dosing, one’s metabolism, hydration status, activity level, weight, history with CBD and hemp products and the sensitivity of one’s endocannabinoid  system.  

​The recommendation is to start with one drop of CBD oil under the tongue three times a day.  In general, an amount of 25 mg per day is sufficient for people whose symptoms are not severe.  If this dosage is not enough, increase your dosage every three weeks by 25 mg until the desired effect is achieved.  

Conclusion 

​Living with ET can be challenging but the good news is research is ongoing to discover how best to rein in the central nervous system and the erratic chemical cascade that is out of control.  A natural option is available in CBD oil to calm, shut down the chemical release and to restore some semblance of order at a cellular level.  Given CBD oil a try and see what happens?