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Last updated: Apr 20, 2024

10 best herbal teas for restless leg syndrome

Valerian root, passionflower, and chamomile are three superior herbal teas for individuals affected by restless leg syndrome.

Extensive studies confirm valerian root's ability to promote relaxation and improve sleep quality. Passionflower's soothing properties are renowned for reducing anxiety and promoting a sense of calm, making it an ideal choice for easing restless leg syndrome symptoms. Chamomile tea has long been hailed for its tranquilizing effects, aiding in the relief of muscle spasms and twitches that characterize restless leg syndrome.

Regularly consuming these infusions grants a natural and caffeine-free alternative to manage this condition effectively.

1. Valerian

Valerian tea helps with restless leg syndrome due to its proven sedative effects on the central nervous system, as validated by numerous scientific studies.

This calming impact reduces nervous tension and soothes irritability, common symptoms associated with restless leg syndrome. Moreover, valerian root contains natural alkaloids, such as valerenic acid, that activate gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors in the brain, promoting relaxation and improved sleep quality. Consequently, consuming valerian tea before bedtime establishes a consistent sleep pattern, thereby diminishing the occurrence and severity of restless leg syndrome episodes.

Lastly, it is important to note that valerian tea is a time-tested herbal remedy, with historical evidence of use dating back to ancient Greek and Roman civilizations, further attesting to its effectiveness in providing relief for those suffering from restless leg syndrome.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in valerian tea that help with restless leg syndrome.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in valerian tea that aid with restless leg syndrome.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic valerian tea for restless leg syndrome.

  1. Measure - Pour 1 cup of boiling water over 1 teaspoon of dried valerian root.
  2. Steep - Let the mixture steep for 10-15 minutes.
  3. Strain - Strain the tea to remove the valerian root.
  4. Sweeten - Add honey to taste, if desired.
  5. Drink - Consume the tea 1-2 hours before bedtime for restless leg syndrome relief.

2. Passionflower

Passionflower tea provides relief for restless leg syndrome due to its proven sedative and muscle-relaxant properties.

This tea contains harmala alkaloids and flavonoids, which act on the central nervous system to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. By alleviating muscle tension and spasms, passionflower tea addresses a primary cause of restless leg syndrome. Additionally, it exhibits GABA-modulating effects, which further contribute to its soothing actions.

Overall, passionflower tea's pharmacological profile effectively combats the symptoms and discomfort associated with restless leg syndrome.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in passionflower tea that help with restless leg syndrome.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in passionflower tea that aid with restless leg syndrome.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic passionflower tea for restless leg syndrome.

  1. Measure 1 teaspoon of dried passionflower leaves, carefully inspecting them for freshness.
  2. Boil 1 cup of water, allowing it to reach a full rolling boil.
  3. Steep the passionflower leaves in the boiling water for 10 minutes, ensuring proper infusion.
  4. Strain the tea, discarding the used leaves and preserving only the liquid.
  5. Consume the passionflower tea, ideally 1 hour before bedtime, for at least one week to alleviate restless leg syndrome.

3. Chamomile

Chamomile tea contains antioxidants, such as flavonoids and terpenoids, which possess documented muscle relaxant and antispasmodic properties.

These compounds bind to specific receptors in the brain and nervous system, reducing anxiety and promoting sleep. Furthermore, chamomile has a long history of traditional use in treating gastrointestinal disorders, which could be beneficial for individuals with RLS as gut issues can exacerbate symptoms. By consuming chamomile tea, restless leg syndrome sufferers experience a reduction in muscle cramping and discomfort, as well as an improvement in overall sleep quality, due to the synergistic effects of its active constituents.

Thus, chamomile tea offers a natural, caffeine-free alternative for managing RLS symptoms.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in chamomile tea that help with restless leg syndrome.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in chamomile tea that aid with restless leg syndrome.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile tea for restless leg syndrome.

  1. Boil 8 ounces of water to 212 degrees Fahrenheit.
  2. Add 1-2 teaspoons of dried chamomile flowers to a tea infuser.
  3. Pour the boiling water over the chamomile flowers in a teapot.
  4. Steep the tea for 5-10 minutes to extract the medicinal compounds.
  5. Remove the tea infuser and drink the chamomile tea while warm to alleviate restless leg syndrome symptoms.

4. Hops

Hops tea offers a natural remedy for restless leg syndrome due to its sedative properties.

This herbal tea contains volatile oils, in particular, α-humulene and ß-myrcene, which alleviate anxiety and induce sleep. The bitter acids present in hops, such as humulone and lupulone, have muscle relaxant effects that reduce leg restlessness. Furthermore, hops tea is a rich source of antioxidants that combat inflammation and contribute to improving overall leg comfort.

Ultimately, the synergistic effects of these compounds in hops tea help to mitigate the symptoms of restless leg syndrome.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in hops tea that help with restless leg syndrome.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in hops tea that aid with restless leg syndrome.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic hops tea for restless leg syndrome.

  1. In a pot, combine 2 cups of water and 1 tablespoon of dried hop flowers.
  2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
  3. Remove the pot from heat and let the tea steep for an additional 10 minutes.
  4. Strain the tea to remove hop flowers, then let it cool to a drinkable temperature.
  5. Consume the tea 1-2 times a day for restless leg syndrome relief.

5. Lemon Balm

Lemon balm tea aids restless leg syndrome by containing rosmarinic acid, which possesses anti-inflammatory and muscle-relaxing properties.

These constituents help alleviate muscle spasms, tension, and irritability associated with restless leg syndrome. Additionally, lemon balm tea has calming effects on the nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety. The soothing warmth of the tea further helps to comfort restless legs and encourages better sleep.

Overall, lemon balm tea provides a holistic approach in managing restless leg syndrome by addressing both the physical and mental aspects of the condition.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in lemon balm tea that help with restless leg syndrome.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in lemon balm tea that aid with restless leg syndrome.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemon balm tea for restless leg syndrome.

  1. Harvest 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon balm leaves or use 1 tablespoon of dried leaves.
  2. Rinse the lemon balm leaves under cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
  3. Crush or bruise the lemon balm leaves to release their oils and place them in a tea infuser or teapot.
  4. Pour 1 cup of boiling water over the lemon balm leaves and let them steep for 5-10 minutes.
  5. Remove the tea infuser or strain the tea, then drink it while it's still warm, up to 3 times a day for best results.

6. Skullcap

Skullcap tea contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, such as flavonoids and phenolic acids, that effectively alleviate symptoms of restless leg syndrome (RLS).

These active compounds help by reducing inflammation in the legs, allowing for improved blood flow and reducing the uncomfortable sensations and movements associated with RLS. Furthermore, skullcap tea acts as a natural sedative and muscle relaxant, directly addressing the symptoms of RLS by relaxing the muscles and promoting better sleep quality. The active constituents in skullcap tea, like scutellarin and catalpol, bind to specific receptors in the brain and nervous system, thereby decreasing nervous irritability and spasms while soothing the central nervous system.

Consuming skullcap tea regularly helps in maintaining healthy nervous system function, thus minimizing the occurrence and severity of RLS symptoms.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in skullcap tea that help with restless leg syndrome.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in skullcap tea that aid with restless leg syndrome.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic skullcap tea for restless leg syndrome.

  1. Measure - Pour 2 teaspoons of dried skullcap herb, equivalent to 4 grams, into a tea infuser or paper filter.
  2. Boil - Bring 1 cup of water to a rolling boil, approximately 212°F (100°C), in a teapot or saucepan.
  3. Steep - Immerse the skullcap-filled infuser in the hot water, allowing it to steep for 5 to 10 minutes, to extract the medicinal compounds.
  4. Strain - Remove the infuser or discard the paper filter, preventing herb particles from entering the final drink.
  5. Serve - Drink the skullcap tea warm, ideally 30 minutes before bedtime, to alleviate restless leg syndrome symptoms.

7. California Poppy

California poppy tea contains alkaloids such as magnoflorine and californidine, which interact with neurotransmitter receptors in the brain, promoting relaxation and reducing excitability.

This herbal tea's sedative and analgesic properties help alleviate symptoms of restless leg syndrome by soothing nerve activity, reducing pain, and calming muscle spasms. Moreover, California poppy tea's antispasmodic effects help ease muscle contractions and restore balance to the nervous system, providing a more restful night's sleep.

By addressing these factors, California poppy tea offers a natural and holistic approach to managing restless leg syndrome, offering temporary yet meaningful relief for those affected.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in california poppy tea that help with restless leg syndrome.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in california poppy tea that aid with restless leg syndrome.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic california poppy tea for restless leg syndrome.

  1. Gather 2 teaspoons of dried California poppy herb and place it in a tea infuser or teapot.
  2. Pour 1 cup of boiling water over the herb and let it steep for 10-15 minutes.
  3. Cover the teapot or cup to retain the volatile oils.
  4. After steeping, remove the infuser or strain the tea.
  5. Drink the tea twice a day, preferably between meals, for restless leg syndrome relief.

8. Kava Kava

Kava kava tea helps with restless leg syndrome because it contains kavalactones, compounds that bind to limbic system receptors in the brain, reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation.

This herbal tea also affects the central nervous system, decreasing excitability in nerve cells and reducing involuntary muscle movements. Furthermore, kava kava has analgesic properties, alleviating the pain and discomfort often associated with restless leg syndrome. Additionally, it improves sleep quality by increasing the duration of deep, slow-wave sleep and reducing the number of nighttime awakenings.

Finally, kava kava's muscle-relaxing and anxiolytic effects ease physical tension and mental stress, both of which can exacerbate restless leg syndrome symptoms.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in kava kava tea that help with restless leg syndrome.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in kava kava tea that aid with restless leg syndrome.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kava kava tea for restless leg syndrome.

  1. Measure 2-3 teaspoons of dried kava kava root, crushing it to release the active compounds.
  2. In a 2-quart pot, bring 2 cups of water to a boil, then add the crushed kava kava root.
  3. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes to extract the kavalactones.
  4. Strain the tea through a muslin or cheesecloth-lined sieve into a mug, discarding the solid material.
  5. Drink the tea while still warm, up to three times a day, as needed for restless leg syndrome relief.

9. St. John'S Wort

St. John's Wort tea contains hypericin and hyperforin, active compounds known to alleviate symptoms of restless leg syndrome.

These compounds work by reducing inflammation and inhibiting the reuptake of neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin, thereby improving circulation in the legs and lessening the irresistible urge to move them. This herbal infusion further promotes relaxation by exerting a calming effect on the nervous system, helping individuals achieve restful sleep.

The antioxidant properties of St. John's Wort tea also contribute to its efficacy in managing restless leg syndrome by protecting nerve cells from damage.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in st. john's wort tea that help with restless leg syndrome.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in st. john's wort tea that aid with restless leg syndrome.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic st. john's wort tea for restless leg syndrome.

  1. Measure - Pour 1 cup of boiling water over 1-2 teaspoons of dried St. John's Wort flowers and leaves.
  2. Steep - Let the mixture steep for 10-15 minutes.
  3. Strain - Strain the liquid to remove plant material.
  4. Sweeten (if desired) - Add honey or lemon to taste.
  5. Consume - Drink the tea while warm, up to three times a day.

10. Ginkgo Biloba

Ginkgo biloba tea benefits individuals with restless leg syndrome due to its rich flavonoid and terpene lactone content.

These compounds possess potent antioxidant properties, which help protect nerve cells from damage and support overall nervous system health. Additionally, ginkgo biloba demonstrates the ability to enhance circulation, ensuring improved blood flow to the legs, thus alleviating the discomfort associated with restless leg syndrome. Furthermore, this tea can help regulate neurotransmitter function, reducing irregular signals that cause involuntary leg movements.

Consequently, ginkgo biloba tea provides a natural, effective solution for those seeking relief from restless leg syndrome symptoms.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in ginkgo biloba tea that help with restless leg syndrome.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in ginkgo biloba tea that aid with restless leg syndrome.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginkgo biloba tea for restless leg syndrome.

  1. Measure - Pour 1 cup of water into a small pot and bring it to a boil.
  2. Prepare - Crush 2 grams of dried ginkgo biloba leaves into a fine powder.
  3. Combine - Place the powdered leaves into a tea infuser and submerge it in the boiling water.
  4. Steep - Let the tea infuse for 10-15 minutes to extract the active compounds.
  5. Serve - Strain the tea into a cup, discard the spent leaves, and enjoy it while it's still warm, up to three times a day.

What is restless leg syndrome and how can it affect your life?

Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) is a neurological disorder that causes an irresistible urge to move the legs, often accompanied by uncomfortable sensations such as crawling, tingling, or aching.

These symptoms typically worsen during periods of rest or inactivity, making it difficult for individuals to fall asleep or stay asleep.

As a result, RLS significantly impacts people's lives by causing chronic fatigue, daytime sleepiness, and difficulty concentrating, which negatively affect their productivity, mood, and overall quality of life.

What other natural remedies help with restless leg syndrome?

Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) is a neurological disorder characterized by an irresistible urge to move one's body to alleviate uncomfortable or odd sensations.

While there is no definitive natural cure for RLS, certain remedies offer consistent relief for many individuals. Implementing a regular exercise routine, especially activities that involve stretching the legs, often brings substantial improvement.

Engaging in activities that promote relaxation, such as meditation or yoga, helps reduce stress and anxiety, which can exacerbate RLS symptoms. Maintaining a balanced diet rich in essential vitamins and minerals, such as iron, vitamin B12, and folate, plays a crucial role in managing RLS. Moreover, establishing a consistent sleep schedule and maintaining a dark, cool sleep environment can help alleviate symptoms and promote better sleep quality.

Adopting these natural strategies can significantly improve the quality of life for those afflicted with Restless Leg Syndrome.