By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 19, 2024
10 Best Herbal Creams For Restless Leg Syndrome
Herbal creams for restless leg syndrome are topical treatments containing natural ingredients, such as essential oils and herbs, that help alleviate the uncomfortable sensations and symptoms associated with the condition.
These creams, often containing ingredients like lavender, peppermint, and chamomile, help relax the muscles, reduce anxiety, and promote a restful night's sleep.
Examples include creams with valerian root and passionflower, which can significantly improve sleep quality and daily functioning, allowing individuals to enjoy a better quality of life and reduced discomfort.
The following article describes in detail the most important creams for restless leg syndrome, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Valeriana officinalis
- 2. Passiflora incarnata
- 3. Lavandula angustifolia
- 4. Cannabis sativa
- 5. Gelsemium sempervirens
- 6. Humulus lupulus
- 7. Melissa officinalis
- 8. Tilia cordata
- 9. Vitex agnus castus
- 10. Cirsium arvense
- What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for restless leg syndrome?
- What ailments similar to restless leg syndrome are treated with herbal creams?
1. Valeriana officinalis
Valeriana officinalis, also known as valerian, creams helps with restless leg syndrome because of its natural muscle-relaxing and anti-inflammatory properties.
The root of the valerian plant contains compounds like isovaleric acid and valerenic acid, which interact with the nervous system to promote relaxation and reduce muscle tension. The cream's soothing effects on the skin and muscles can help alleviate the discomfort and cramping associated with restless leg syndrome, allowing for a more restful and peaceful sleep.
Regular use can lead to improved sleep quality and reduced symptoms of the condition.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Valeriana officinalis creams that help with restless leg syndrome.
- Isovaleric acid: This organic compound has a sedative effect, helping to reduce muscle spasms and alleviate the symptoms of restless leg syndrome.
- Valerenic acid: A sesquiterpene, valerenic acid acts as a GABA receptor agonist, promoting relaxation, reducing anxiety, and calming the nervous system to alleviate restless leg syndrome symptoms.
- Valeranone: A valerenic acid derivative, valeranone is known for its sedative and anxiolytic properties, helping to relax muscles, reduce restlessness, and improve sleep quality in individuals with restless leg syndrome.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of valerian used to make creams for restless leg syndrome.
- Roots: As the primary source of valerenic acid, a compound that interacts with GABA receptors and has a sedative effect, which can help alleviate restless leg syndrome symptoms.
- Seeds: Contain valeranone and valerenic acid, which contribute to the calming and relaxing properties of the plant, making them useful for treating restless leg syndrome.
- Leaves: Rich in valerenic acid and other valerenic compounds, which have been shown to have a soothing effect on the nervous system and help alleviate restless leg syndrome symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic valerian for restless leg syndrome.
- Extract 30 grams of dried valeriana officinalis roots by steeping them in 250 ml of cold water for 2 hours.
- Strain the liquid mixture through a cheesecloth to separate the roots from the valeriana officinalis extract.
- Combine 30 grams of beeswax with 10 grams of shea butter in a double boiler over low heat.
- Mix 50 ml of the valeriana officinalis extract with 50 ml of distilled water and add it to the beeswax mixture.
- Allow the mixture to cool and solidify for 30 minutes before scooping it into containers.
2. Passiflora incarnata
Passiflora incarnata, also known as maypop, creams helps with restless leg syndrome because its active compounds, such as flavonoids and alkaloids, have a calming effect on the nervous system.
The herb has been traditionally used to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation, which can be beneficial in alleviating symptoms of restless leg syndrome.
By promoting a sense of calm and reducing muscle tension, Passiflora incarnata creams may provide relief for individuals experiencing restless leg syndrome, allowing them to enjoy a more restful and peaceful night's sleep.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Passiflora incarnata creams that help with restless leg syndrome.
- Harmane: Harmane, an alkaloid in Passiflora incarnata, has been shown to have a sedative and anxiolytic effect, which can help alleviate the anxiety and stress that often accompany restless leg syndrome.
- Isovitexin: Isovitexin, a flavonoid glycoside, has been found to possess a sedative effect and can help regulate the nervous system, potentially reducing symptoms of restless leg syndrome.
- Isoorientin: Isoorientin, another flavonoid glycoside, has been demonstrated to have a relaxing effect on the nervous system and may help reduce muscle cramps and spasms associated with restless leg syndrome.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of maypop used to make creams for restless leg syndrome.
- Leaves: The leaves of Passiflora incarnata are commonly used to make creams for restless leg syndrome due to their high content of flavonoids and alkaloids that have a calming effect on the nervous system.
- Roots: The roots are used to create creams for restless leg syndrome as they contain harman and norharman, which have sedative properties that help to relax the muscles.
- Barks: The bark of Passiflora incarnata is used in creams for restless leg syndrome due to its content of flavonoids and alkaloids that help to reduce inflammation and promote relaxation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maypop for restless leg syndrome.
- Harvest 1 pound of passiflora incarnata flowers on a warm sunny day in late summer.
- Dry the flowers in a single layer at 105 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours to prevent spoilage.
- Steep 2 ounces of dried passiflora incarnata flowers in 2 cups of coconut oil for 2 weeks.
- Strain the oil through cheesecloth into a clean container and discard the solids after 2 hours.
- Mix 1/4 cup of beeswax and 1/4 cup of coconut oil with the passiflora incarnata oil to create a creamy texture.
3. Lavandula angustifolia
Lavandula angustifolia, also known as English lavender, creams helps with restless leg syndrome because of its calming and soothing properties.
The lavender oil present in these creams has a sedative effect on the nervous system, which can help alleviate the uncomfortable sensations and twitching associated with restless leg syndrome.
Additionally, the antispasmodic properties of lavender oil may help relax muscles and reduce inflammation, providing relief from the symptoms of restless leg syndrome and promoting a more restful sleep.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia creams that help with restless leg syndrome.
- Linalool: This terpene helps with restless leg syndrome by promoting relaxation, reducing muscle tension, and inducing a sense of calmness, which can alleviate symptoms of restlessness.
- Linalyl acetate: This terpene contributes to the analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties of lavender, which can help reduce pain and discomfort associated with restless leg syndrome.
- Caffeic acid: This phenolic compound has been shown to have a sedative effect, which can help reduce restlessness and improve sleep quality, both of which are essential in managing restless leg syndrome.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make creams for restless leg syndrome.
- Leaves: They contain high amounts of camphor, which is known for its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to soothe and calm restless legs.
- Flowers: They are rich in linalool and linalyl acetate, which are known for their calming and sedative effects, helping to relax the muscles and reduce discomfort associated with restless leg syndrome.
- Seeds: They contain a high concentration of sabinene, a compound with a calming effect on the nervous system, which can help to reduce muscle tension and promote relaxation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for restless leg syndrome.
- Harvest 25-30 grams of fresh lavandula angustifolia flowers when they are in full bloom.
- Dry the harvested flowers in a warm oven at 35c for 2-3 hours or using a food dehydrator.
- Steep 10 grams of the dried flowers in 100ml of jojoba oil for 2 hours in a double boiler.
- Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter and discard the solids.
- Mix 20ml of the infused oil with 10 grams of beeswax and 20ml of distilled water to create the final cream.
4. Cannabis sativa
Cannabis sativa, also known as marijuana, creams helps with restless leg syndrome because they contain cannabinoids such as CBD and THC, which interact with the body's endocannabinoid system.
This interaction can help to reduce muscle tension and inflammation, common causes of restless leg syndrome.
By relaxing the muscles and reducing discomfort, these creams can provide relief from the unpleasant sensations and urges to move associated with the condition, allowing individuals to sleep and relax more comfortably.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cannabis sativa creams that help with restless leg syndrome.
- Cannabinoids: These phytocannabinoids help with restless leg syndrome by interacting with the body's endocannabinoid system, which regulates pain perception, muscle relaxation, and sleep quality, ultimately reducing symptoms of RLS.
- Terpenes: These terpenes have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce muscle inflammation and oxidative stress associated with restless leg syndrome, leading to improved symptoms.
- Bisabolol: This sesquiterpene has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and muscle relaxant properties, which may contribute to reducing muscle spasms and inflammation associated with restless leg syndrome, leading to improved symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of marijuana used to make creams for restless leg syndrome.
- Leaves: Rich in cannabinoids, particularly THC and CBD, which help to relax muscles and reduce pain and discomfort associated with restless leg syndrome.
- Buds: High in THC and other cannabinoids, which have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties that can help to alleviate restless leg syndrome symptoms.
- Seeds: Contain a rich source of essential fatty acids, such as omega-3 and omega-6, which can help to reduce inflammation and promote relaxation, making them useful in creams for restless leg syndrome.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic marijuana for restless leg syndrome.
- Infuse 1 cup of carrier oil such as coconut or olive oil with 2 tablespoons of cannabis sativa flowers for 2 weeks.
- Strain the infused oil through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean bowl to remove the plant material.
- Mix the strained oil with 1/2 cup of beeswax and 1 tablespoon of vitamin e oil to create a smooth consistency.
- Heat the mixture in a double boiler or a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments until the beeswax is fully melted.
- Pour the hot mixture into a clean container and let it cool completely before use as a cream.
5. Gelsemium sempervirens
Gelsemium sempervirens, also known as yellow jessamine, creams helps with restless leg syndrome because of its natural relaxant properties.
The herb is believed to calm the nervous system, reducing muscle tension and spasms that often characterize the condition. By promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety, Gelsemium sempervirens creams may help alleviate the uncomfortable sensations and urges to move that are characteristic of restless leg syndrome, providing relief and improving overall quality of life for those affected.
Its soothing effects may also promote better sleep.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Gelsemium sempervirens creams that help with restless leg syndrome.
- Gelsemine: A toxic alkaloid found in Gelsemium sempervirens, Gelsemine may help alleviate restless leg syndrome by promoting relaxation and reducing muscle spasms due to its sedative properties.
- Berberine: A phenolic alkaloid found in Gelsemium sempervirens, Berberine may help reduce inflammation and promote muscle relaxation, which can alleviate the symptoms of restless leg syndrome.
- Gelseminine: Another toxic alkaloid found in Gelsemium sempervirens, Gelseminine may help reduce muscle spasms and promote relaxation, which can help alleviate the symptoms of restless leg syndrome.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of yellow jessamine used to make creams for restless leg syndrome.
- Roots: They contain bioactive compounds with analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help alleviate symptoms of restless leg syndrome.
- Leaves: They possess medicinal properties that can help reduce inflammation and pain associated with restless leg syndrome.
- Barks: They contain compounds with sedative and anti-inflammatory effects, which can contribute to the relief of restless leg syndrome symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic yellow jessamine for restless leg syndrome.
- Harvest fresh gelsemium sempervirens root and wash it thoroughly with distilled water.
- Dry the root in a low-temperature oven at 150 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
- Grind 5 grams of dried gelsemium sempervirens root into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
- Mix the powder with 100 grams of beeswax and 20 grams of sweet almond oil in a heat-proof bowl.
- Whip the mixture for 10 minutes using a hand mixer until it thickens into a smooth cream.
6. Humulus lupulus
Humulus lupulus, also known as hops, creams helps with restless leg syndrome because of its natural sedative properties and anti-inflammatory compounds.
The extracts from the plant, particularly lupulone and humulone, have been shown to relax muscles and reduce anxiety. These properties make Humulus lupulus creams a potential remedy for restless leg syndrome, alleviating the uncomfortable sensations and movements associated with the condition.
The creams may also promote a restful night's sleep, further reducing symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Humulus lupulus creams that help with restless leg syndrome.
- Lupulin: Lupulin is a mixture of sesquiterpene lactones and flavonoids, particularly xanthohumol, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. These properties might help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the nervous system, contributing to the relief of restless leg syndrome symptoms.
- Humulone: Humulone is a sesquiterpene that has a sedative and relaxing effect on the nervous system. Its anxiolytic properties might help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation, which can be beneficial in managing restless leg syndrome.
- Xanthohumol: Xanthohumol is a prenylated chalcone with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective properties. Its potential to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the nervous system might help alleviate symptoms of restless leg syndrome, such as pain and discomfort.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of hops used to make creams for restless leg syndrome.
- Flowers: They contain humulone, a compound that has been shown to have a sedative effect, helping to relieve symptoms of restless leg syndrome.
- Seeds: They contain a compound called alpha-humulene, which has been found to have anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce discomfort and pain associated with restless leg syndrome.
- Buds: They contain flavonoids and phenolic acids that may help to reduce inflammation and promote relaxation, making them useful in creams for restless leg syndrome.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic hops for restless leg syndrome.
- Harvest 100g of fresh humulus lupulus flowers with a pair of clean scissors and store them immediately.
- Steep the flowers in 250ml of boiling water for 5 minutes to extract their herbal properties.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into a clean glass bowl and discard the solids.
- Mix 20g of beeswax with 20g of coconut oil in a double boiler and heat the mixture until melted.
- Combine the strained liquid with the melted beeswax mixture and whip the cream until it thickens.
7. Melissa officinalis
Melissa officinalis, also known as lemon balm, creams helps with restless leg syndrome because of its unique combination of properties.
The antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory compounds in Melissa officinalis help to relax the muscles and reduce inflammation, which is often a contributing factor to restless leg syndrome. Additionally, the calming and soothing effects of Melissa officinalis can help to calm the nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing symptoms of restlessness and discomfort associated with the condition.
This can lead to improved sleep quality and reduced symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melissa officinalis creams that help with restless leg syndrome.
- Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce muscle inflammation and spasms associated with restless leg syndrome.
- Luteolin: A flavonoid with antioxidant properties, luteolin can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the body, contributing to the alleviation of restless leg syndrome symptoms.
- Linalool: A terpene with sedative and anti-anxiety properties, linalool can help promote relaxation and reduce muscle tension, potentially alleviating the discomfort and restlessness associated with restless leg syndrome.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of lemon balm used to make creams for restless leg syndrome.
- Leaves: Melissa officinalis leaves are often used due to their high content of linalool and linalyl acetate, which have been shown to have a calming effect on the nervous system.
- Flowers: Melissa officinalis flowers are commonly used for their ability to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation, which can help alleviate symptoms of restless leg syndrome.
- Leaves: Melissa officinalis leaves are also used for their antispasmodic properties, which can help to reduce muscle cramps and spasms associated with restless leg syndrome.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemon balm for restless leg syndrome.
- Harvest fresh melissa officinalis leaves in the early morning or late afternoon when they are at their peak potency.
- Dry the freshly harvested leaves in a low-temperature oven at 105°f for 2 hours to preserve their properties.
- Infuse 2 cups of dried melissa officinalis leaves in 4 cups of carrier oil such as coconut or sweet almond oil for 2 weeks.
- Strain the infused oil through cheesecloth or a coffee filter to remove the melissa officinalis leaves and discard the solids.
- Blend the strained oil with 1 cup of beeswax and 2 tablespoons of vitamin e oil to create a smooth and creamy texture.
8. Tilia cordata
Tilia cordata, also known as littleleaf linden, creams helps with restless leg syndrome because of its calming and relaxing properties.
The anti-inflammatory compounds found in Tilia cordata have been shown to soothe muscle spasms and reduce tension, which can contribute to restless leg syndrome symptoms.
Additionally, the herb's sedative effects can help regulate sleep patterns and promote a sense of calm, reducing the discomfort and anxiety associated with restless leg syndrome, allowing for a more restful and peaceful sleep.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Tilia cordata creams that help with restless leg syndrome.
- Terpenes: Terpenes, such as linalool and geraniol, present in Tilia cordata, have a sedative and relaxing effect on the nervous system, which may help reduce the discomfort and anxiety associated with restless leg syndrome.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids, including quercetin and kaempferol, found in Tilia cordata, have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce muscle inflammation and oxidative stress that can contribute to restless leg syndrome symptoms.
- Glycosides: Tilia cordata contains glycosides, such as tiloside, which have a sedative and anxiolytic effect, and may help reduce the anxiety and muscle tension associated with restless leg syndrome.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of littleleaf linden used to make creams for restless leg syndrome.
- Leaves: Tilia cordata leaves are used to make creams for restless leg syndrome due to their calming and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Buds: Tilia cordata buds are used to make creams for restless leg syndrome due to their soothing and relaxing effects.
- Flowers: Tilia cordata flowers are used to make creams for restless leg syndrome due to their calming and sedative properties, which help to reduce muscle tension.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic littleleaf linden for restless leg syndrome.
- Harvest 100g of fresh tilia cordata leaves and flowers on a sunny morning between may and september.
- Dry the harvested plant material in a warm and dark place for 2-3 weeks to reduce moisture content.
- Grind 50g of dried tilia cordata into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle for 10 minutes.
- Mix 20g of beeswax and 10g of coconut oil with the powdered tilia cordata in a double boiler at 160°f for 10 minutes.
- Stir the mixture for 5 minutes until it reaches a smooth and creamy consistency suitable for application.
9. Vitex agnus castus
Vitex agnus castus, also known as chaste tree, creams helps with restless leg syndrome because it has a soothing effect on the nervous system, reducing anxiety and stress that often trigger restless leg syndrome.
The cream's calming properties help to balance hormones, which can also contribute to the condition. Additionally, Vitex agnus castus has anti-inflammatory properties that may help to reduce pain and discomfort associated with restless leg syndrome, promoting relaxation and restful sleep.
This natural remedy offers a holistic approach to managing restless leg syndrome symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Vitex agnus castus creams that help with restless leg syndrome.
- Iridoids: Iridoids, such as agnuside, are believed to help alleviate restless leg syndrome by acting as a dopamine agonist, which can help regulate movement and reduce involuntary movements.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, including vitexin and isovitexin, may contribute to the antispasmodic and anxiolytic effects of Vitex agnus castus, potentially reducing muscle tension and anxiety that can contribute to restless leg syndrome.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids, such as kaempferol and quercetin, have been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the body, potentially alleviating symptoms of restless leg syndrome.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of chaste tree used to make creams for restless leg syndrome.
- Flowers: They are used due to their high iridoid glycoside content, particularly aucubin and agnuside, which are believed to have a calming effect on the nervous system.
- Seeds: They are used for their high concentration of vitexin and isovitexin, flavonoids that have anti-inflammatory and muscle-relaxing properties.
- Leaves: They are used due to their rich content of aucubin, agnuside, and other iridoids that contribute to their anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, and anxiolytic effects.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chaste tree for restless leg syndrome.
- Harvest 1/2 cup of dried vitex agnus castus flowers from a reputable source.
- Infuse the dried flowers in 2 cups of carrier oil such as coconut oil for 2 weeks.
- Strain the infused oil through cheesecloth into a clean container and discard solids.
- Mix 1/4 cup of beeswax with 1/4 cup of shea butter and heat until melted in a double boiler.
- Blend the infused oil with the melted beeswax mixture and pour into jars to cool.
10. Cirsium arvense
Cirsium arvense, also known as Canada thistle, creams helps with restless leg syndrome because of its anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties.
The herbal remedy contains flavonoids and sesquiterpene lactones that may help relax muscle cramps and spasms associated with restless leg syndrome. Additionally, its soothing and calming effects on the nervous system may also contribute to its therapeutic benefits.
By reducing muscle tension and promoting relaxation, Cirsium arvense creams may provide relief from the discomfort and restlessness characteristic of the condition.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cirsium arvense creams that help with restless leg syndrome.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids present in Cirsium arvense, such as kaempferol and quercetin, may help alleviate restless leg syndrome by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the muscles, which can contribute to the development of the condition.
- Saponins: Saponins in Cirsium arvense may help calm the nervous system and reduce muscle spasms associated with restless leg syndrome, promoting relaxation and reducing symptoms of the condition.
- Coumarins: Coumarins, such as umbelliferone, in Cirsium arvense may have a sedative effect, helping to reduce anxiety and promote a sense of calm, which can be beneficial in managing restless leg syndrome symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of canada thistle used to make creams for restless leg syndrome.
- Roots: The roots of Cirsium arvense are used due to their purported anti-inflammatory properties.
- Leaves: The leaves of Cirsium arvense are used for their potential anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effects.
- Flowers: The flowers of Cirsium arvense are used for their possible anti-inflammatory properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic canada thistle for restless leg syndrome.
- Harvest approximately 200g of fresh cirsium arvense roots and leaves in late summer or early fall.
- Dry the harvested plant material in a single layer at room temperature for 1-2 weeks.
- Combine 50g of the dried cirsium arvense roots and leaves with 200g of vegetable oil in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks, shaking the jar occasionally, then strain the liquid.
- Mix the resulting infused oil with 10g of beeswax and 10g of shea butter in a double boiler to create a smooth cream.
What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for restless leg syndrome?
The best combination of herbal creams that help with restless leg syndrome is often a blend of soothing and calming ingredients.
A combination of cream containing valerian root, which promotes relaxation and calms the nervous system, paired with cream infused with lavender oil, which reduces stress and anxiety, can be highly effective. Adding a cream with arnica and peppermint can also help to reduce inflammation and ease muscle tension, providing relief from restless leg syndrome symptoms.
This combination can be applied topically to help alleviate discomfort.
What ailments similar to restless leg syndrome are treated with herbal creams?
Ailments similar to restless leg syndrome that are treated with herbal creams are itching, pruritus, and minor skin irritations.
Herbs such as aloe vera, calendula, and chamomile are commonly used in topical creams to soothe and calm irritated skin, reducing discomfort and inflammation.
These natural remedies can provide relief from symptoms of conditions like eczema, dermatitis, and minor burns, promoting healthy skin and relaxation.