10 Best Herbal Syrups For Restless Leg Syndrome

Herbal syrups have gained attention as a natural alternative for managing symptoms of restless leg syndrome (RLS), offering a gentler approach compared to pharmaceutical options.

These syrups often contain ingredients like valerian root, passionflower, and chamomile, which are known for their calming and sedative properties. Some formulations may also include magnesium or ginger to help alleviate muscle tension and improve sleep quality. While herbal syrups are generally considered safe, they may interact with other medications or have side effects, so it's important to consult a healthcare provider before use.

Overall, they can be a valuable complementary therapy for individuals seeking non-pharmacological relief from RLS symptoms.

1. Valerian (Valeriana officinalis)

Valeriana officinalis, commonly known as valerian, is a traditional herbal remedy that has been used for centuries to address various sleep-related issues, including restless leg syndrome (RLS).

Herbal syrups made from valerian root are often formulated to promote relaxation and improve sleep quality, which can help alleviate the uncomfortable sensations and urge to move the legs associated with RLS. These syrups are typically taken in the evening to support a calming effect before bedtime, making them a natural alternative for those seeking non-pharmacological relief. While research on valerian's efficacy for RLS is limited, some studies suggest it may help reduce anxiety and enhance sleep, which are common comorbidities in RLS patients.

As with any herbal supplement, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider before use, especially if taking other medications or experiencing underlying health conditions.

2. Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra)

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

While primarily known for its role in respiratory and digestive health, some studies suggest that licorice root may help alleviate symptoms of restless leg syndrome (RLS) by reducing inflammation and improving nerve function. Herbal syrups made from licorice root are often used as a natural alternative to pharmaceutical treatments, offering a gentler approach for those seeking complementary therapy. These syrups are typically prepared with honey or other natural sweeteners, making them palatable and easy to consume.

However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using licorice-based remedies, as they may interact with certain medications or have side effects in high doses.

3. Peppermint (Mentha piperita)

Mentha piperita, commonly known as peppermint, has been traditionally used in herbal syrups to alleviate symptoms of restless leg syndrome (RLS).

The cooling and calming properties of peppermint may help reduce the uncomfortable sensations and urge to move the legs associated with RLS. These herbal syrups are often prepared by infusing fresh or dried peppermint leaves in a base of honey or sugar, creating a soothing and aromatic remedy. While not a substitute for medical treatment, peppermint syrup may offer natural relief for mild cases of RLS when used as a complementary therapy.

However, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before using any herbal remedy, especially for individuals with existing health conditions or those taking medications.

4. Chaste tree (Vitex agnus-castus)

Vitex agnus-castus, commonly known as chaste tree berry, has been traditionally used in herbal medicine to support hormonal balance and alleviate symptoms of various conditions, including restless leg syndrome (RLS).

While scientific research on its direct effects on RLS is limited, some studies suggest that its phytoestrogens and other compounds may help regulate neurotransmitter activity, which is often disrupted in individuals with RLS. Herbal syrups made from vitex agnus-castus are often taken as a natural alternative to conventional treatments, offering a gentler, plant-based option for those seeking holistic management of RLS symptoms. However, it is important to consult a healthcare provider before using vitex-based syrups, especially if you are taking other medications or have underlying health conditions.

Overall, vitex agnus-castus herbal syrups may provide potential relief for some RLS sufferers, though more research is needed to fully understand their efficacy and safety.

5. Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)

Achillea millefolium, commonly known as yarrow, has been traditionally used in herbal medicine for its calming and anti-inflammatory properties.

While not a primary treatment for restless leg syndrome (RLS), some studies suggest that its mild sedative effects may help alleviate symptoms in certain individuals. Herbal syrups containing Achillea millefolium are often used as complementary therapies to support overall relaxation and sleep quality. These syrups are typically made by steeping the dried herb in honey or sugar syrup, creating a soothing, aromatic preparation.

However, it is important to consult a healthcare provider before using yarrow-based syrups, as they may interact with other medications or have side effects in some people.

6. Blessed thistle (Cnicus benedictus)

Cnicus benedictus, also known as blessed thistle, is traditionally used in herbal medicine for its potential digestive and circulatory benefits.

While it is not a direct treatment for restless leg syndrome (RLS), some practitioners suggest that its mild stimulant properties may help alleviate symptoms by improving blood flow and reducing nerve-related discomfort. Herbal syrups made from Cnicus benedictus are often used as complementary therapies, particularly in holistic approaches to managing RLS. These syrups are typically prepared by combining the herb with honey or other natural sweeteners to enhance palatability.

However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using any herbal remedy for RLS, as individual responses can vary and interactions with other medications may occur.

7. Maypop (Passiflora incarnata)

Passiflora incarnata, commonly known as passionflower, has been traditionally used to promote relaxation and calm the nervous system, making it a potential natural remedy for restless leg syndrome (RLS).

Herbal syrups made from passiflora incarnata are often formulated with other calming herbs like valerian root or lemon balm to enhance their sedative effects. These syrups may help alleviate the uncomfortable sensations and urge to move the legs associated with RLS by reducing anxiety and improving sleep quality. However, it is important to consult a healthcare provider before using passiflora-based remedies, as they may interact with medications or have side effects in some individuals.

While research on passiflora's efficacy for RLS is limited, some users report improved symptoms, suggesting it may be a complementary therapy for managing this condition.

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).

The plant contains compounds such as strychnine and brucine, which are known for their stimulant and neuroexcitatory effects. While some traditional practitioners use nux-vomica syrup to address nerve-related conditions, its efficacy for RLS remains largely anecdotal and not well-supported by modern clinical studies. Due to the toxic nature of its alkaloids, the use of nux-vomica in herbal syrups is controversial and requires careful administration under professional supervision.

As a result, it is not recommended as a primary treatment for RLS without further scientific validation and safety assessments.

9. Hemp (Cannabis sativa)

Cannabis sativa herbal syrups have gained attention as a potential complementary therapy for managing symptoms of restless leg syndrome (RLS).

These syrups typically contain cannabidiol (CBD) and other cannabis-derived compounds that may interact with the body's endocannabinoid system to reduce discomfort and promote relaxation. Some users report that the soothing effects of these syrups help alleviate the uncontrollable urges to move the legs associated with RLS. While research on cannabis for RLS is still emerging, early studies suggest that cannabinoids may offer relief for those who do not respond well to conventional treatments.

As with any herbal remedy, it is important to consult a healthcare provider before using cannabis sativa syrups to ensure safety and appropriateness for individual health conditions.

10. Black pepper (Piper nigrum)

Piper nigrum, commonly known as black pepper, has been traditionally used in herbal medicine for its potential benefits in alleviating symptoms of restless leg syndrome (RLS).

The active compound in black pepper, piperine, is believed to enhance the absorption of other nutrients and may help improve circulation, which is often impaired in individuals with RLS. Some studies suggest that the anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties of piper nigrum may help reduce the discomfort and tingling sensations associated with restless leg syndrome. While more research is needed to confirm its efficacy, some individuals report relief from using black pepper-based herbal syrups as a complementary therapy.

It is important to consult a healthcare provider before using any herbal remedy, especially if you are on medication or have underlying health conditions.