Tourette syndrome is a type of Tic Disorder that causes involuntary, repetitive movements and vocalizations. Around 300,000 children in the United States are affected by Tourette’s syndrome symptoms, which typically appear between the ages of five and seven. (1) Researchers have yet to pinpoint Tourette’s syndrome causes, but natural Tourette’s syndrome treatment can help improve the frequency and severity of both simple and complex symptoms over time.
Tourette’s Syndrome Causes
Tourette’s syndrome causes are unknown, but experts believe that a combination of genetics and environmental factors may contribute to the condition. Children have a greater risk of developing Tourette syndrome if there is a family history of Tourette’s, and males are more likely to develop the condition than females. (2)
Tourette’s Syndrome Symptoms (Simple Tics)
- Eye blinking
- Head jerking
- Eye darting
- Nose twitching
- Lip twitching
- Shoulder shrugging
- Swallowing
- Grunting
- Coughing
- Barking
- Throat clearing
Tourette’s Syndrome Symptoms (Complex Tics)
- Combination of two or more simple tics
- Touching objects
- Smelling objects
- Walking or skipping in a pattern
- Obscene gestures
- Swearing
- Bending
- Twitching
- Repeating words or phrases
Tourette’s Syndrome Treatment
1. Magnesium
Magnesium plays a key role in proper muscle function and reaction. Research has shown that oral solutions of magnesium and Vitamin B6 can help decrease symptoms in children with Tourette’s syndrome. (3)
2. Passion Flower
Passion flower is known to help fight insomnia, depression and anxiety, which are common in people with Tourette syndrome. To use passion flower as a Tourette’s syndrome treatment, look for high-quality teas and supplements. (4)
3. B Vitamins
B Vitamins help support the nervous system, fight free radicals in the body, reduce inflammation and regulate mood. Stress can act as a trigger for Tourette’s symptoms. Specifically, Vitamin B12 can help support patients with Tourette’s by fighting anxiety and depression. (5)
4. Vitamin D
Research has shown that Vitamin D deficiency is linked to depression. Spending time outdoors each day or taking a high-quality Vitamin D supplement can help with Tourette’s syndrome treatment by preventing depression. (6)
5. Chamomile
Chamomile is known to help fight insomnia, anxiety, depression and muscle spasms. Use chamomile essential oil or drink organic chamomile tea to help relieve tension, reduce spasms and promote a peaceful night’s sleep. (7)
6. Relaxation
According to a study published in the Journal of Affective Disorders, mind-body relaxation meditations can help modulate brain activities in areas where emotions are processed. Whole body relaxation can help in Tourette’s syndrome treatment by relieving tense muscles and reducing spasms. (8)
7. Omega-3 Fatty Acids
A study conducted at the NYU School of Medicine found that omega-3 fatty acids may benefit patients with Tourette syndrome by reducing tics. Omega-3’s are also known to support brain health and heart health. (9)
8. Acupuncture
Researchers in China found acupuncture to have a 97.1% effective rate in the treatment of Tourette syndrome. Acupuncture is also helpful in naturally relieving stress and fighting insomnia, muscle pain and body aches. (10)
9. Exercise
According to a study published in Behavior Modification Journal, aerobic exercise can significantly reduce tics, both during and after the workout. Aerobic exercise has also been shown to help reduce anxiety and naturally improve mood. (11)