Updated: Nov 30, 2024
11 Herbal Creams For Restless Leg Syndrome
Herbal creams can be a natural solution for restless leg syndrome (RLS).
RLS is a condition that causes uncomfortable sensations in the legs, often at night. Herbal teas, not creams, can help relieve RLS symptoms. Let's focus on teas. Herbal teas can calm your nervous system and promote relaxation, which can ease RLS symptoms. Herbs like Valeriana officinalis, also known as valerian root, have been used for centuries to promote sleep and relaxation. This herb contains compounds that interact with the brain's neurotransmitters, helping you feel more relaxed and sleepy. Zingiber officinale, or ginger, has anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce pain and discomfort in the legs.
Lavandula angustifolia, or lavender, has a calming effect on the nervous system, which can also help with sleep and relaxation. When you drink herbal teas, the active compounds are absorbed into your bloodstream and interact with your brain and body. This can lead to several benefits beyond just relieving RLS symptoms. For example, these herbs can help you fall asleep faster, sleep more soundly, and wake up feeling more refreshed. This can improve your mood, reduce fatigue, and boost your energy levels. By promoting relaxation and reducing stress, herbal teas can also help with anxiety and other related conditions. To use herbal teas, steep dried herbs in hot water, then strain and drink. You can also add honey or lemon to taste.
Start with small amounts and experiment with different herbs to find what works best for you.
This article explains in detail what are the best herbal teas for restless leg syndrome and wh.
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Table of Contents
1. Valeriana officinalis
Valeriana officinalis creams contains valerenic acid, valeranone, and valepotriates as its active constituents.
These compounds have a sedative and muscle-relaxing effect, which can help alleviate the symptoms of restless leg syndrome. Valerenic acid, in particular, has been shown to interact with the GABA receptors in the brain, promoting relaxation and reducing muscle tension. This interaction can help calm the nervous system and reduce the urge to move legs due to RLS.
By applying Valeriana officinalis creams to the affected area, individuals may experience relief from the discomfort and restlessness associated with restless leg syndrome.
- Gather 1 cup of dried Valeriana officinalis root and 1/2 cup of coconut oil in a double boiler.
- Melt the coconut oil in the double boiler and add the dried Valeriana officinalis root. Let it simmer for 2-3 hours.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into a bowl, pressing on the solids to get all the liquid. Discard the solids.
- Let the liquid cool down and then whip it with a hand mixer until it thickens into a cream. You can add a bit of beeswax (1-2 tablespoons) to help it solidify.
- Pour the cream into a container and store it in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Use a small amount (about 1-2 teaspoons) as needed to help with restless leg syndrome symptoms.
2. Zingiber officinale
Zingiber officinale creams contains boiactive constituents like gingerols and shogaols.
These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation in the muscles and joints. Gingerols also have a warming effect that can increase blood flow and help relax tense muscles. Shogaols have antioxidant properties that can help reduce oxidative stress and promote overall health.
By reducing inflammation and promoting relaxation, Zingiber officinale creams may help alleviate symptoms of restless leg syndrome, providing relief from uncomfortable sensations and discomfort.
- Gather ingredients: 1 cup of coconut oil, 1/4 cup of beeswax, 2 tablespoons of shea butter, 2 tablespoons of ginger essential oil, 2 tablespoons of vitamin E oil.
- Melt coconut oil and beeswax in a double boiler or a heat-proof bowl set over a pot of simmering water.
- Add shea butter to the melted mixture and stir until smooth.
- Remove from heat and stir in ginger essential oil and vitamin E oil.
- Pour the mixture into a container, let it cool and solidify, then use it as needed for restless leg syndrome.
3. Lavandula angustifolia
Lavandula angustifolia creams contains compounds like linalool and linalyl acetate, which are responsible for its soothing and calming effects.
These active constituents help to relax the muscles and reduce anxiety, making them beneficial for people with restless leg syndrome. The anti-inflammatory properties of linalool and linalyl acetate also reduce swelling and pain in the legs, providing relief from the discomfort associated with this condition. Additionally, the sedative properties of these compounds promote better sleep quality, which is essential for managing restless leg syndrome.
By reducing muscle tension and promoting relaxation, Lavandula angustifolia creams can help to alleviate the symptoms of restless leg syndrome.
- Gather 1 cup of dried Lavandula angustifolia flowers, 1/2 cup of coconut oil, 1/4 cup of beeswax, and 2 tablespoons of shea butter.
- Melt the coconut oil and beeswax in a double boiler or a heat-proof bowl set over a pot of simmering water.
- Add the shea butter to the melted coconut oil and beeswax mixture. Stir until combined.
- Add the dried Lavandula angustifolia flowers to the mixture and stir well. Let it infuse for 2-3 hours or overnight.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl. Pour the mixture into a container and let it cool and solidify before use.
4. Passiflora incarnata
Passiflora incarnata creams contains flavonoids, alkaloids, and glycosides.
The flavonoids, including flavonol and flavanone, act as antioxidants, reducing inflammation in the legs. The alkaloids, such as harman, harmine, and harmaline, have a sedative effect, helping to calm the nervous system and relax muscles. The glycosides, including passifloric acid and passiflorin, have anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce pain and discomfort in the legs.
By reducing inflammation, calming the nervous system, and relaxing muscles, Passiflora incarnata creams can help alleviate symptoms of restless leg syndrome.
- Gather 1 cup of dried Passiflora incarnata flowers and 1 cup of carrier oil (coconut or olive oil).
- Combine the dried flowers and carrier oil in a clean glass jar. Let it steep in a cool, dark place for 2-3 weeks, shaking the jar daily.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into another clean glass jar. Discard the solids.
- Add 2 tablespoons of beeswax to the oil mixture and place the jar in a double boiler or a heat-proof bowl set over a pot of simmering water.
- Heat the mixture until the beeswax melts, then remove from heat and let it cool. Pour the cream into small containers and store in a cool, dark place.
5. Melissa officinalis
Melissa officinalis creams contains the active constituents rosmarinic acid, ursolic acid, and melissic acid.
These constituents have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce stress and anxiety that can contribute to restless leg syndrome. Rosmarinic acid, in particular, has been shown to improve sleep quality and reduce muscle spasms, which can help alleviate restless leg symptoms. The calming properties of Melissa officinalis also help to regulate the nervous system and reduce feelings of restlessness and irritability.
By reducing stress and promoting relaxation, Melissa officinalis creams can help to provide relief from restless leg syndrome.
- Gather 2 cups of distilled water, 1 cup of coconut oil, and 1/4 cup of beeswax in a double boiler.
- Add 10 drops of Melissa officinalis essential oil to the distilled water and stir.
- Melt the coconut oil and beeswax in the double boiler. Heat until the beeswax is fully melted.
- Combine the melted coconut oil and beeswax mixture with the Melissa officinalis-infused water. Stir well.
- Pour the mixture into a container and let it cool. Once cooled, use as a cream for restless leg syndrome relief.
6. Curcuma longa
Curcuma longa creams contains active constituents like curcumin, demethoxycurcumin, and bisdemethoxycurcumin.
These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help reduce irritation and inflammation in the nerves that cause restless leg syndrome. Curcumin also has a calming effect on the nervous system, helping to regulate muscle contractions and relax the legs. The antioxidants in Curcuma longa cream may help protect the nerves from damage caused by free radicals, reducing the severity of restless leg syndrome symptoms.
By reducing inflammation and promoting relaxation, Curcuma longa creams can provide relief from restless leg syndrome symptoms.
- Mix 2 cups of coconut oil, 1 cup of beeswax, and 1/2 cup of shea butter in a double boiler.
- Heat the mixture until the beeswax and shea butter are melted.
- Remove from heat and add 1/4 cup of turmeric powder (Curcuma longa) and 1/4 cup of coconut oil.
- Stir well and add 10 drops of peppermint essential oil.
- Pour the mixture into a container and let it cool and solidify before use.
7. Avena sativa
Avena sativa creams contains active constituents like avenanthramides, avenacosides, and ferulic acid.
These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe and calm the muscles in the legs. Avenanthramides, in particular, have been shown to have a positive effect on blood flow and relaxation, which can alleviate symptoms of restless leg syndrome. The antioxidant properties of ferulic acid can also help reduce oxidative stress, a possible contributor to the condition.
By using Avena sativa creams, individuals may experience relief from restless leg syndrome symptoms due to its soothing and calming effects on the muscles.
- Mix 1 cup of Avena sativa powder with 2 cups of water in a saucepan. Heat the mixture over low heat, stirring until the powder dissolves.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and let it cool. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl.
- Add 1/4 cup of coconut oil or shea butter to the bowl and mix well.
- Add 2 tablespoons of beeswax and 2 tablespoons of vitamin E oil to the bowl. Mix until the beeswax dissolves.
- Pour the mixture into small containers and let it cool. Store the Avena sativa cream in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
8. Ginkgo biloba
Ginkgo biloba creams contains active constituents like flavonoids and terpenoids, which help improve blood flow to the legs.
The flavonoids in Ginkgo biloba have antioxidant properties that reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the legs, which can contribute to restless leg syndrome. The terpenoids in Ginkgo biloba also have a relaxing effect on the muscles, which can help ease the discomfort and restlessness in the legs. Additionally, the flavonoids in Ginkgo biloba have a vasodilating effect, which can help widen blood vessels and improve circulation to the legs.
By improving blood flow and reducing muscle tension, Ginkgo biloba creams may help alleviate symptoms of restless leg syndrome.
- Gather ingredients: 1 cup of Ginkgo biloba extract, 1/2 cup of coconut oil, 1/4 cup of beeswax, 2 tablespoons of vitamin E oil, and 10 drops of lavender essential oil.
- Melt coconut oil and beeswax in a double boiler or a heat-proof bowl set over a pot of simmering water.
- Add Ginkgo biloba extract to the melted coconut oil and beeswax mixture. Stir well to combine.
- Remove the mixture from heat and stir in vitamin E oil and lavender essential oil. Pour the mixture into a container.
- Let the mixture cool and solidify. Once solid, your Ginkgo biloba cream for restless leg syndrome is ready to use.
9. Hypericum perforatum
Hypericum perforatum creams contains the bioactive constituents hyperforin and hypericin.
These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce muscle tension and spasms. The flavonoids in Hypericum perforatum, such as quercetin and kaempferol, also have a relaxing effect on the nervous system, promoting calmness and reducing restlessness. The antioxidant properties of these compounds can help to reduce oxidative stress, which is thought to contribute to the development of restless leg syndrome.
By reducing muscle tension, inflammation, and oxidative stress, Hypericum perforatum creams may provide relief from restless leg syndrome symptoms.
- Gather 1 cup of coconut oil, 1/4 cup of beeswax, and 2 tablespoons of Hypericum perforatum oil in a double boiler.
- Heat the coconut oil and beeswax in the double boiler until the beeswax melts.
- Remove the mixture from heat and add the Hypericum perforatum oil. Stir well.
- Let the mixture cool and solidify. This may take about 30 minutes.
- Once solid, scoop the cream into a container and store it in a cool, dry place.
10. Mentha x piperita
Mentha x piperita creams contains menthol, menthone, and limonene, which are potent compounds that help alleviate restless leg syndrome symptoms.
Menthol has a cooling effect that calms muscle cramps and spasms, while menthone has antispasmodic properties that reduce muscle contractions. Limonene, on the other hand, has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce swelling and pain in the legs. The combination of these properties helps to relax the muscles and improve blood flow, providing relief from restless leg syndrome symptoms.
By reducing muscle spasms and inflammation, Mentha x piperita creams helps to promote a restful night's sleep and alleviate the discomfort associated with restless leg syndrome.
- Gather ingredients: 2 cups of coconut oil, 1 cup of beeswax, 2 tablespoons of peppermint essential oil, and 2 tablespoons of vitamin E oil.
- Melt coconut oil and beeswax in a double boiler or a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until melted and smooth.
- Remove melted mixture from heat and let cool slightly. Stir in peppermint essential oil and vitamin E oil until well combined.
- Pour mixture into a silicone candy mold or a small tin container. Let cool and harden completely.
- Once hardened, remove cream from mold or container and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Apply a small amount to affected area as needed.
11. Cymbopogon citratus
Cymbopogon citratus creams contains essential oils that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The main bioactive constituents of Cymbopogon citratus include limonene, geraniol, and linalool, which have a sedative and relaxing effect on the nervous system. These compounds help to reduce muscle spasms and cramps associated with restless leg syndrome. The anti-inflammatory properties of Cymbopogon citratus creams also help to soothe and calm irritated muscles, providing relief from discomfort and pain.
By reducing muscle tension and inflammation, Cymbopogon citratus creams may provide relief from restless leg syndrome symptoms.
- Gather 2 cups of distilled water, 1 cup of coconut oil, 1/4 cup of beeswax, and 2 tablespoons of Cymbopogon citratus essential oil.
- Combine the distilled water and coconut oil in a small saucepan. Heat the mixture over low heat, stirring occasionally.
- Add the beeswax to the saucepan and continue heating, stirring constantly, until the beeswax is fully melted.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the Cymbopogon citratus essential oil. Let the mixture cool slightly.
- Pour the mixture into a container and let it cool completely. Once set, the Cymbopogon citratus cream is ready for use.
FAQ
Can drinking herbal tea prevent restless leg syndrome from forming?
Some people find that drinking herbal tea, especially those with calming properties like chamomile and lavender, can help ease restless leg syndrome symptoms.
These teas may help relax muscles and reduce discomfort.
However, results can vary from person to person, and it's unclear how effective herbal tea can be in preventing the condition from forming.
Is it safe to consume herbal teas for restless leg syndrome every day?
While herbal teas may help with restless leg syndrome, consuming them daily isn't entirely safe.
Some teas contain caffeine, which can worsen symptoms, and others may interact with medications. Additionally, relying on herbal teas for relief might mask underlying issues.
It's essential to be cautious and monitor how your body reacts.
How long does it take for herbal teas to show results in restless leg syndrome?
The results from drinking herbal teas for restless leg syndrome can vary from person to person.
Some people may feel relief after a few days, while others may need a week or two to notice a difference.
It's not uncommon for symptoms to decrease gradually as the body adjusts to the herbal ingredients.