10 Best Herbal Creams For Restless Leg Syndrome

Herbal creams for restless leg syndrome (RLS) are increasingly being explored as a natural alternative to conventional treatments, offering a gentler approach for managing symptoms.

These creams often contain ingredients like menthol, eucalyptus, and capsaicin, which are known for their soothing and stimulating effects on the skin and nerves. While some studies suggest that topical applications may provide temporary relief by improving blood circulation and reducing muscle tension, their effectiveness can vary among individuals. It is important to consult a healthcare professional before using herbal creams, as they may interact with other medications or have side effects.

Despite their popularity, more research is needed to fully understand their long-term benefits and safety for RLS management.

1. Valerian (Valeriana officinalis)

Valeriana officinalis, commonly known as valerian, is a traditional herbal remedy that has been used for centuries to promote relaxation and improve sleep.

Herbal creams containing valerian root extract are increasingly being explored as a natural alternative for managing symptoms of restless leg syndrome (RLS), a neurological disorder characterized by an irresistible urge to move the legs, often accompanied by uncomfortable sensations. These creams work by delivering valerian's active compounds, such as valerenic acid, through the skin, potentially helping to calm the nervous system and reduce restlessness. While some studies suggest valerian may have mild sedative effects, more research is needed to confirm its efficacy specifically for RLS.

As a complementary therapy, valerian-based creams may offer a soothing option for individuals seeking non-pharmacological relief from restless leg symptoms.

2. St. john's wort (Hypericum perforatum)

Hypericum perforatum, commonly known as St. John's Wort, is a herbal remedy that has been explored for its potential benefits in treating restless leg syndrome (RLS).

While primarily known for its antidepressant properties, some studies suggest that the active compounds in St. John's Wort, such as hyperforin and hypericin, may have a calming effect on the nervous system, which could help alleviate the uncomfortable sensations associated with RLS. Herbal creams containing St. John's Wort may be applied topically to the legs to provide localized relief, though more research is needed to confirm their efficacy for RLS specifically. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider before using St. John's Wort, as it can interact with other medications and may cause side effects in some individuals.

Despite limited clinical evidence, some people with RLS report improved symptoms when using St. John's Wort-based topical treatments as part of a holistic approach to managing their condition.

3. Hemp (Cannabis sativa)

Cannabis sativa herbal creams have gained attention as a potential natural remedy for restless leg syndrome (RLS), a neurological disorder characterized by an uncontrollable urge to move the legs, often accompanied by uncomfortable sensations.

These creams typically contain cannabidiol (CBD) and other cannabis-derived compounds that may interact with the body's endocannabinoid system to reduce inflammation and promote relaxation. Some users report that topical application of these creams provides relief from the discomfort and restlessness associated with RLS, possibly due to their analgesic and soothing properties. While research on cannabis for RLS is still emerging, preliminary studies suggest that CBD-based products may offer a viable alternative or complement to traditional treatments.

As with any herbal remedy, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before use, especially for individuals with underlying medical conditions or those taking other medications.

4. Ginger (Zingiber officinale)

Zingiber officinale, commonly known as ginger, has been traditionally used for its anti-inflammatory and circulatory benefits, making it a popular ingredient in herbal creams for restless leg syndrome.

These creams often contain ginger extract, which may help improve blood flow and reduce muscle tension, potentially alleviating the uncomfortable sensations associated with restless legs. While some studies suggest that topical application of ginger can provide localized relief, more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness for this specific condition. Users often report a warming sensation when applying ginger-based creams, which may contribute to a soothing effect on the legs.

As a natural alternative to pharmaceutical treatments, ginger herbal creams offer a potentially safe and accessible option for those seeking relief from restless leg syndrome.

5. Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra)

Glycyrrhiza glabra, commonly known as licorice root, has been traditionally used in herbal medicine for its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.

Recent studies suggest that licorice root extracts may help alleviate symptoms of restless leg syndrome (RLS) by reducing nerve irritation and promoting muscle relaxation. When incorporated into herbal creams, glycyrrhiza glabra can provide topical relief by calming the skin and reducing discomfort associated with RLS. These creams are often preferred by individuals seeking natural alternatives to pharmaceutical treatments.

However, it is important to consult a healthcare provider before using licorice-based products, especially for those with hypertension or allergies to licorice.

6. Chaste tree (Vitex agnus-castus)

Vitex agnus-castus, commonly known as chaste tree, has been traditionally used in herbal medicine for its potential calming and hormonal balancing effects.

Some herbal creams containing vitex agnus-castus are marketed for their ability to alleviate symptoms of restless leg syndrome (RLS) by promoting relaxation and improving sleep quality. These creams are typically formulated with other soothing ingredients such as lavender or chamomile to enhance their calming properties. While there is limited scientific research specifically linking vitex to RLS relief, some users report reduced restlessness and improved comfort when using these topical treatments.

As with any herbal remedy, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before use, especially for individuals with underlying health conditions or those taking other medications.

7. Blessed thistle (Cnicus benedictus)

Cnicus benedictus, also known as blessed thistle, is a herbal remedy that has been explored for its potential benefits in alleviating symptoms of restless leg syndrome (RLS).

While scientific research on its direct impact on RLS is limited, some studies suggest that the herb may help improve circulation and reduce nerve-related discomfort, which are common factors in RLS. Herbal creams containing Cnicus benedictus are often used topically to provide localized relief by soothing muscle tension and promoting relaxation. These creams are generally considered safe for most individuals when used as directed, though they may interact with certain medications or cause mild skin irritation in some cases.

As with any herbal treatment, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before incorporating Cnicus benedictus into a regimen for RLS management.

8. Nux vomica (Strychnos nux-vomica)

Strychnos nux-vomica, a traditional herbal remedy, has been explored for its potential in alleviating symptoms of restless leg syndrome (RLS).

This plant contains compounds such as strychnine and brucine, which are known for their stimulant and neuroexcitatory effects. Some studies suggest that these compounds may help improve circulation and reduce nerve-related discomfort associated with RLS. However, due to the toxicity of its alkaloids, the use of Strychnos nux-vomica in herbal creams requires careful formulation and professional oversight.

While anecdotal reports highlight its effectiveness for some individuals, further clinical research is needed to establish its safety and efficacy for treating RLS.

9. Kava (Piper methysticum)

Piper methysticum, commonly known as kava, has been traditionally used in Polynesian cultures for its calming and sedative properties.

While it is often consumed as a tea, some individuals have explored its potential in the form of herbal creams for managing symptoms of restless leg syndrome (RLS). These creams may contain extracts of kava root, which are believed to help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation, potentially alleviating the uncomfortable sensations associated with RLS. However, there is limited scientific evidence supporting the efficacy of kava-based creams for RLS, and their use should be approached with caution due to potential side effects and interactions with other medications.

It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before using any herbal remedy for RLS to ensure safety and appropriateness for individual health conditions.

10. Field horsetail (Equisetum arvense)

Equisetum arvense, commonly known as field horsetail, is a plant traditionally used in herbal medicine for its high concentration of silica and other minerals.

Herbal creams containing equisetum arvense are often formulated to support circulation and reduce nerve-related discomfort, making them a popular complementary treatment for restless leg syndrome (RLS). These creams may help alleviate the tingling, crawling sensations, and restlessness associated with RLS by promoting muscle relaxation and improving blood flow. While some users report relief from symptoms, it is important to consult a healthcare provider before using equisetum-based products, as they may interact with certain medications.

Overall, equisetum arvense herbal creams offer a natural alternative for managing RLS, though their effectiveness can vary among individuals.