Dear Dr. Gott: Can you tell me if there is a safe and effective home remedy for hand tremors? My father is 69 years old and has stopped going to his doctor for his monthly B12 shots, which were given to reduce his hand tremors. I advised him to try drinking six to eight ounces of warm sage tea up to three times a day, but can you recommend something else that will work for him?

Reply: While there is a genetic tendency, no one knows why tremors exist; however, they represent an abnormal communication between specific areas of the brain.

Causes can include Parkinson's disease; stroke; low blood-sugar levels; thyroid abnormalities; some medications, such as those for cardiac issues; tricyclic antidepressants; decongestants; and breathing issues. Drinks that contain caffeine are also known to cause tremor, as is stress, anxiety and fatigue. Essential and familiar tremors can be suppressed by consuming alcoholic beverages, but this is not a desirable remedy.

Symptoms of essential tremor begin gradually, can be aggravated by emotional stress and temperature extremes, and differ from Parkinson's because they happen when a person's hands, head and voice are being used. Parkinson's tremor, in contrast, tends to occur when the hands are at rest, without involvement of the head or voice.

If treatment is required – and it isn't in all cases – tranquilisers, antiseizure medications, beta blockers ordinarily prescribed for hypertension and Botox injections might be prescribed.

Alternative treatment includes massage, hypnosis, acupuncture and relaxation techniques, such as tai chi or yoga. One consideration is 100 milligrams of grape-seed extract and 50 micrograms of vitamin B50.

B12 fights anaemia and nerve damage, and is said to reverse the symptoms of Bell's palsy.

If it helped your father's tremor, he might consider the monthly injection once again. In any event, I would suggest that you speak with his physician to determine whether his tremor is benign or has an underlying cause. In that way, you will know whether to lean toward something as complex as Parkinson's or whether he might consider alternative remedies.

To provide related information, I am sending you copies of my Health Reports 'Parkinson's Disease' and 'Compelling Home Remedies'.

Other readers who would like copies should send a self-addressed stamped number ten envelope and a $2 cheque or money order for each report payable to Newsletter. Mail it to Newsletter, PO Box 167, Wickliffe, Ohio 44092-0167. Be sure to mention the title(s) or print an order form off my website at www.AskDrGottMD.com.

Dear Dr. Gott: I have a friend who takes medicine that causes him to be constipated. One of my co-workers said she saw an article in one of your columns for a cocktail for this problem, but she could not remember the ingredients. Her husband used it at one point and had good results.

It's odd that I write because I have an ileostomy and have exactly the opposite problem. I take tincture of opium, which slows my bowels down and lessens the amount of fluids I lose. Our bodies are amazing, and it's good to educate ourselves about them with as much knowledge as we can.

My friend doesn't have a computer, so if you send the information on, he can either read it in our local paper or I will forward it to him. Thank you.

Reply: My colon cocktail consists of equal portions of unprocessed bran, applesauce and prune juice.

Mix the three ingredients together, and place them in your refrigerator for at least an hour to blend. Then take one to two tablespoons daily, more if necessary, for relief. The remedy may take up to two weeks to be fully effective, but the ingredients are safe and natural.

Dr. Peter H. Gott is a retired physician and the author of several books, including 'Live Longer, Live Better', 'Dr. Gott's No Flour, No Sugar Diet' and 'Dr. Gott's No Flour, No Sugar Cookbook', which are available at most bookstores or online. His website is www.AskDrGottMD.com. Contact him c/o United Media, 200 Madison Avenue, fourth floor, New York, New York 10016.