Can Cannabis Calm Tremors? What Peer-Reviewed Science Reveals
Discover how cannabis eases tremors and improves movement, backed by peer-reviewed research.
The earliest recorded use of cannabis for treating tremors dates back to ancient times. Around 2700 BCE, Emperor Shen Nong of China—known as the father of Chinese medicine—included cannabis in his pharmacopeia, Pen Ts'ao Ching, recommending it for ailments resembling tremors and convulsions. In Western history, 19th-century physicians like Sir William Gowers prescribed cannabis for epilepsy and Parkinsonian tremors, reflecting long-standing traditions in India and the Middle East of using cannabis for neurological disorders.
Today, peer-reviewed studies are shedding new light on how cannabis interacts with the nervous system to reduce tremors and improve mobility. This post explores the science behind cannabis, products that may help, and real-life stories of symptom relief.
Introduction – Why Tremor Relief Matters
Tremors – those involuntary, rhythmic shakes – can make even simple tasks like holding a cup or writing a challenge. For people living with conditions like Parkinson’s Disease, Multiple Sclerosis, or Essential Tremor (ET), managing these symptoms is key to maintaining quality of life. While conventional medications can help, they don’t always work for everyone and can come with side effects.
Cannabis is emerging as a natural alternative that shows promise for reducing tremors. But how does it actually work? In this post, we’ll break down the science behind cannabis and its potential to calm the nervous system and ease tremors.
A Personal Story: Finding Relief After Medication Wears Off
One reader shared their experience living with Parkinson’s Disease (PD) and how cannabis has helped manage symptoms:
"I’ve just turned 57 and have been living with PD for five years. My biggest challenges are muscle stiffness, ‘lock-up,’ and mobility, and I’ve recently transitioned to bi-lateral tremors. My neurologist prescribes Levodopa—three pills a day—to prevent building tolerance. But by 5 p.m., the medication wears off, and the tremors and stiffness start creeping in.
When I get nervous, frustrated, or excited, my tremors worsen. In the evenings, I smoke about .25 to .30 grams of cannabis to calm my nerves. Within 20 to 30 minutes, I feel relief—my tremors ease, and the muscle stiffness melts away. It helps me move more freely for about 90 minutes, though it doesn’t improve my balance.
I don’t smoke enough to get high, just enough to feel calm and make my evenings more enjoyable. I stay focused and function well. I didn’t start smoking until a few years ago when my symptoms became harder to manage. I’ve shared this with my physician and neurologist, and neither has advised me to stop.
I know this may not be a long-term solution, but for now, it works for me. We all experience this disease differently, and what helps one person may not work for someone else. I’ve stopped drinking because I found it worsened my tremors and mobility. Cannabis, on the other hand, has been a game-changer for my quality of life.”
This story echoes what many in the community feel—sometimes the best solutions aren’t one-size-fits-all, but a blend of approaches that improve day-to-day comfort.
Understanding Tremors
Tremors happen when nerve signals between the brain and muscles misfire or overact. Different types of tremors affect people in different ways:
Essential Tremor (ET) – A common condition causing shaking in the hands, head, or voice. It often gets worse with age.
Parkinson’s Disease Tremor – This occurs when the brain doesn't produce enough dopamine, a chemical that helps control movement.
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Tremor – MS can lead to tremors due to nerve damage affecting muscle coordination.
In all of these conditions, tremors can worsen with stress, anxiety, or fatigue.
How Cannabis Stops Tremors
Tremors occur because of miscommunication between the brain and muscles. Cannabis helps by calming this overactive signaling.
Here’s how it works:
Cannabis Interacts with Your Nervous System – Your body has something called the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which plays a role in controlling muscle movement and nerve signals.
CBD (Cannabidiol) – Calms overactive nerves and relaxes muscles. It also reduces inflammation that can make tremors worse.
THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) – Directly binds to brain receptors responsible for movement, slowing down or stopping involuntary shaking.
Balances Brain Chemicals – THC and CBD help restore the balance of dopamine and other chemicals that control muscle movement.
Imagine a shaky hand trying to hold a spoon. After using cannabis (like CBD oil), the brain sends smoother signals to the muscles, allowing the hand to stay steadier.
Scientific Evidence and Case Studies
Research into cannabis and tremor relief is growing, with promising early results:
Essential Tremor (ET) – A study at the University of California, San Diego, is currently exploring how a cannabis oil containing CBD and THC impacts tremors in ET patients. Early findings suggest improved hand steadiness.
Parkinson’s Disease – A review in the Journal of Parkinson’s Disease found that patients using cannabis reported reduced tremors, improved sleep, and lower anxiety.
Anxiety-Induced Tremors – In one clinical trial, Parkinson’s patients who took 300 mg of CBD experienced fewer tremors during anxiety-inducing events, like public speaking.
If you're interested in other natural methods for managing Parkinson’s symptoms, check out our post on Punching Back Against Parkinson’s to learn how boxing and plant-based wellness can work together to improve mobility and reduce symptoms.
What Cannabis Products Work Best for Tremors?
Not all cannabis products are created equal when it comes to tremor relief. Here are a few that may help:
CBD Oils and Tinctures – Best for reducing anxiety and inflammation without causing a high. Start with 10-20 mg daily and adjust as needed.
THC-CBD Balanced Strains – Strains like Harlequin or ACDC offer tremor relief with minimal psychoactive effects.
Edibles and Capsules – These provide long-lasting relief and may help with nighttime tremors.
Topicals – Applied directly to the skin, these work for localized muscle relaxation.
If you or a loved one struggles with lighting pre-rolls or using regular lighters, consider using a mobility-friendly lighter designed specifically for people with tremors or limited hand strength. These lighters make it easier to enjoy cannabis products without frustration.
Is Cannabis Safe for Tremor Relief?
Cannabis is generally well-tolerated, but there are a few things to consider:
Side Effects – Some users experience dizziness, dry mouth, or mild drowsiness.
THC Sensitivity – High doses of THC can increase anxiety in some people, which could worsen tremors. Start low and go slow.
Medication Interactions – Always check with your doctor, especially if you're taking medications for Parkinson’s or other conditions.
Getting Started with Cannabis for Tremors
Choose Lab-Tested Products – Look for reputable brands that provide third-party lab reports.
Start Small – Begin with a low dose of CBD (10-15 mg) and track your symptoms. Increase gradually if needed.
Track Progress – Keep a journal to note how your tremors respond to different products and doses.
Peer-Reviewed Studies on Cannabis and Tremors
If you're interested in exploring the science behind cannabis for tremor relief, here are several peer-reviewed studies that highlight its potential:
Essential Tremor (ET) – A 2021 study conducted by the University of Copenhagen found that synthetic cannabinoids reduced essential tremors by activating astrocytes in the spinal cord, calming overactive nerve signals. Read the full study here.
CBD and Essential Tremor – Researchers at the University of California, San Diego, are running a clinical trial to examine how cannabidiol (CBD) affects essential tremor. Early results show a noticeable reduction in tremor severity, suggesting that CBD may help stabilize hand movements. Learn more about the trial here.
Cannabis and Parkinson’s Tremors – A 2020 study published in the Journal of Parkinson’s Disease reported that patients who used cannabis experienced fewer tremors, better sleep quality, and reduced anxiety. Review the article here.
These studies provide compelling evidence that cannabis, particularly CBD and THC, can play a significant role in managing tremors for individuals with conditions like Essential Tremor or Parkinson’s Disease. As more research emerges, cannabis could become an increasingly valuable option for improving quality of life.
Conclusion
For those living with tremors, cannabis offers hope and potential relief. By working with your body’s natural systems, cannabinoids like CBD and THC can calm overactive nerves, restore balance, and reduce involuntary shaking.
As research continues to grow, cannabis could become an increasingly valuable tool in managing tremors and improving quality of life.
Have you or someone you know tried cannabis for tremors? Share your experience or questions below.
Disclaimer: The information provided is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting or changing any health-related treatments, including the use of cannabis.
Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.