Updated: Nov 30, 2024
11 Herbal Tinctures For Restless Leg Syndrome
If you're experiencing restless leg syndrome (RLS), you're not alone.
This condition can be frustrating and disrupt your daily life. Herbal tinctures, made from plants like Valeriana officinalis, Passiflora incarnata, and Avena sativa, may help alleviate your symptoms. Valerian root, for example, is a natural relaxant that can help calm your nervous system and reduce RLS episodes. It contains compounds like valerenic acid that promote relaxation and improve sleep quality. Passionflower, another herb used in tinctures, is known for its sedative properties. It can help slow down your heart rate and reduce anxiety, which are common triggers for RLS.
Avena sativa, or oat straw, is used to promote relaxation and reduce stress levels. It's believed to help regulate your nervous system and promote better sleep. When consumed as a tincture, these herbs can be absorbed quickly into your system, providing fast relief from RLS symptoms. Using herbal tinctures for RLS can bring many benefits to your life. For one, they're a natural alternative to prescription medications, which can have unwanted side effects. Herbal tinctures are also often more affordable and accessible than traditional treatments. Plus, they can be used in combination with other therapies, like massage or physical therapy, to create a comprehensive treatment plan.
By incorporating herbal tinctures into your daily routine, you may find that your RLS symptoms become more manageable, allowing you to enjoy your daily activities without discomfort or interruption.
This article explains in detail what are the best herbal teas for restless leg syndrome and wh.
Also, you may be interested in...
Today Free Bonus!
The Ultimate Herb Drying Checklist
(For Long-Lasting Powerful Medicinal Effect)
How to easily dry herbs that don't mold and that keep their strong medicinal power for more than 1 year.
Table of Contents
1. Valeriana officinalis
Valeriana officinalis tinctures contains valerenic acid, valepotriates, and isovaleric acid as its main bioactive constituents.
These compounds have a sedative and relaxing effect on the nervous system, which helps to calm the muscles in the legs. The sedative properties of valerenic acid and valepotriates work together to reduce muscle spasms and restlessness. The isovaleric acid in Valeriana officinalis tinctures has a soothing effect on the nervous system, which helps to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety.
By relaxing the muscles and calming the nervous system, Valeriana officinalis tinctures can help to alleviate symptoms of restless leg syndrome.
- Gather 1 cup of dried Valeriana officinalis roots and 2 cups of vodka (at least 80 proof) in a clean glass jar.
- Add the dried roots to the jar and cover them with vodka, leaving about 1 inch of space at the top.
- Seal the jar tightly and shake it well for 2-3 minutes to help the roots infuse into the vodka.
- Store the jar in a cool, dark place and let it sit for 2-3 weeks, shaking it every day or two.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass bottle, discarding the solids. Use 20-30 drops of the tincture in water or tea as needed, 1-2 times a day.
2. Passiflora incarnata
Passiflora incarnata tinctures contains flavonoids, alkaloids, and glycosides as its bioactive constituents.
These compounds have sedative and anti-anxiety properties, which can help to calm the nervous system and reduce symptoms of restless leg syndrome. The flavonoids in Passiflora incarnata tinctures, such as vitexin and isovitexin, have been shown to have a relaxing effect on muscles, which can help to alleviate restlessness and discomfort in the legs. The alkaloids, including passiflorine, can help to regulate the body's physiological responses, leading to a more stable and calm state.
By promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety, Passiflora incarnata tinctures can help to alleviate the symptoms of restless leg syndrome.
- Gather 1 cup of fresh or dried Passiflora incarnata leaves and flowers. Clean them thoroughly.
- Combine the plant material with 2 cups of 80% vodka in a clean glass jar. Make sure the plant material is completely covered.
- Seal the jar and store it in a cool, dark place for 2-6 weeks, shaking the jar every day. This allows the plant to extract its active ingredients into the vodka.
- After the extraction period, strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass jar. Discard the plant material.
- Label the jar with the date and the name of the tincture. Store it in a cool, dark place. The tincture is now ready to use. Take 20-30 drops, 2-3 times a day, as needed, mixed with water or another liquid.
3. Avena sativa
Avena sativa tinctures contains a concentrated extract of the Avena sativa plant, which has been used for centuries to alleviate symptoms of restless leg syndrome.
The tincture is rich in bioactive constituents such as avenacosides, avenanthramides, and ferulic acid, which work together to relax the muscles and reduce inflammation in the legs. Avenanthramides, in particular, have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to soothe and calm the nerves that signal the legs to move involuntarily. Ferulic acid also has antioxidant properties, which can help to reduce oxidative stress and promote relaxation in the muscles.
By reducing inflammation and promoting relaxation, Avena sativa tinctures can help to calm the restless legs and provide relief from this condition.
- Gather 1 cup of dried Avena sativa root, 1 cup of 80% ethanol, and a clean glass jar.
- Combine the Avena sativa root and ethanol in the glass jar. Stir to ensure the root is fully covered.
- Store the jar in a cool, dark place and let it sit for 2-3 weeks, shaking the jar every day.
- After 2-3 weeks, strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another glass jar. Discard the solids.
- Transfer the tincture to a clean glass bottle and label it with the date and ingredients. Store it in a cool, dark place.
4. Zingiber officinale
Zingiber officinale tinctures contains active constituents like gingerols and shogaols, which have anti-inflammatory properties.
These properties help reduce inflammation and relax muscles, making it easier to manage restless leg syndrome. The warming effect of ginger, caused by its thermogenic properties, can also help alleviate cold or numb sensations in the legs. Additionally, the bioactive compounds in Zingiber officinale tinctures, such as gingerol and shogaol, have a sedative effect on the nervous system, which can help calm restless legs.
By reducing inflammation and promoting relaxation, Zingiber officinale tinctures may help provide relief from restless leg syndrome symptoms.
- Gather 1 cup of fresh Zingiber officinale (ginger) roots and 2 cups of 80-proof vodka or glycerin in a clean glass jar.
- Chop the ginger roots into small pieces and add them to the jar.
- Fill the jar with 2 cups of vodka or glycerin, making sure the ginger roots are completely covered.
- Seal the jar and store it in a cool, dark place for 2-3 weeks, shaking the jar daily.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass bottle, discarding the ginger solids.
5. Lavandula angustifolia
Lavandula angustifolia tinctures contains high concentrations of linalool and linalyl acetate, two potent bioactive constituents with sedative and anti-anxiety properties.
These compounds help to calm the nervous system, reducing stress and anxiety that can exacerbate restless leg syndrome symptoms. The antispasmodic properties of linalool, in particular, work to relax muscle spasms and cramps in the legs, providing relief from restless leg syndrome symptoms. Additionally, the sedative effects of linalyl acetate promote relaxation, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep, which is often disrupted in individuals with restless leg syndrome.
By targeting the root causes of restless leg syndrome, Lavandula angustifolia tinctures offer a natural, non-invasive solution to alleviate symptoms.
- Gather 1 cup of dried Lavandula angustifolia flowers and 2 cups of 80-proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Combine the dried flowers and vodka in the jar, making sure the flowers are fully covered.
- Seal the jar and let it sit in a cool, dark place for 2-3 weeks, shaking the jar every day.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass jar, discarding the solids.
- Store the tincture in a dark glass bottle and take 20-30 drops, 2-3 times a day, as needed for restless leg syndrome relief.
6. Ginkgo biloba
Ginkgo biloba tinctures contains flavonoids and terpenoids, which are active compounds that help ease restless leg syndrome.
Flavonoids, such as quercetin and kaempferol, have anti-inflammatory properties that reduce swelling and pain in the legs. Terpenoids, including ginkgolides and bilobalide, improve blood flow and relax muscles, which helps calm restless leg movements. Ginkgo biloba tinctures also have antioxidant properties, which protect the nerves and muscles from damage caused by free radicals.
Regular use of ginkgo biloba tinctures may help reduce the frequency and severity of restless leg syndrome symptoms.
- Gather 1 cup of Ginkgo biloba leaves and 2 cups of 80% ethanol (vodka or rum work too).
- Combine the Ginkgo biloba leaves and ethanol in a clean glass jar. Stir well.
- Seal the jar and let it sit in a cool, dark place for 2-3 weeks. Shake the jar every day.
- After 2-3 weeks, strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean jar. Discard the solids.
- Transfer the liquid to a dropper bottle and store it in a cool, dark place. Use 20-30 drops, 2-3 times a day as needed.
7. Curcuma longa
Curcuma longa tinctures contains bioactive compounds like curcuminoids, especially curcumin, demethoxycurcumin, and bisdemethoxycurcumin.
These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the body. Curcumin also has a neurotransmitter-regulating effect, which can help to calm the nervous system and reduce the urge to move the legs. Curcumin also has a role in regulating the body's circadian rhythms, which can help to regulate the body's natural sleep-wake cycle and reduce symptoms of restless leg syndrome.
By reducing inflammation, regulating neurotransmitters, and regulating the body's internal clock, Curcuma longa tinctures may help to alleviate symptoms of restless leg syndrome.
- Gather 1 cup of dried Curcuma longa root, 2 cups of vodka (at least 80 proof), and a clean glass jar with a lid.
- Combine the dried root and vodka in the glass jar. Stir well to ensure the root is fully covered.
- Store the jar in a cool, dark place and let it sit for 2-3 weeks, shaking the jar every day to help the tincture steep.
- After 2-3 weeks, strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass jar, discarding the solids.
- Store the tincture in the refrigerator to slow down the aging process and use 20-30 drops, 2-3 times a day, as needed to help alleviate restless leg syndrome symptoms.
8. Withania somnifera
Withania somnifera tinctures contains bioactive constituents like withanolides, which are responsible for its therapeutic properties.
These withanolides have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help reduce muscle cramps and spasms associated with restless leg syndrome. Withanolides also have a sedative effect, which can promote relaxation and reduce anxiety, common triggers of restless leg syndrome. Additionally, Withania somnifera tinctures contain alkaloids like somniferine and somniferine-like compounds, which can help reduce pain and inflammation in the legs.
By reducing muscle cramps and spasms, pain, and inflammation, Withania somnifera tinctures can provide relief from restless leg syndrome symptoms.
- Gather 1 cup of Withania somnifera roots and 2 cups of vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Add the Withania somnifera roots to the jar and fill the jar with vodka, making sure the roots are completely covered.
- Close the jar and let it sit in a cool, dark place for 2-3 weeks, shaking the jar every day.
- After 2-3 weeks, strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass jar, discarding the solids.
- Label the jar and store it in a cool, dark place. Take 20-30 drops of the tincture 2-3 times a day as needed for restless leg syndrome.
9. Piper methysticum
Piper methysticum tinctures contains bioactive constituents like kavalactones, particularly kavain and desmethoxyyangonin.
These compounds have a sedative effect on the nervous system, which can help reduce symptoms of restless leg syndrome. The sedative properties of kavalactones also promote relaxation and reduce muscle tension, which can contribute to restless leg syndrome. Additionally, kavalactones have been shown to affect neurotransmitters in the brain, such as serotonin and dopamine, which play a role in regulating movement and sensation.
By modulating these neurotransmitters, Piper methysticum tinctures may help alleviate restless leg syndrome symptoms.
- Gather 1 cup of dried Piper methysticum root, 2 cups of vodka (at least 80 proof), and a clean glass jar with a lid.
- Combine the dried root and vodka in the glass jar, making sure the root is completely covered.
- Close the jar and store it in a cool, dark place. Shake the jar every day for 2 weeks.
- After 2 weeks, strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another glass jar. Discard the solids.
- Transfer the tincture to small dropper bottles and store them in a cool, dark place. Take 20-30 drops, 2-3 times a day, as needed.
10. Melissa officinalis
Melissa officinalis tinctures contains rosmarinic acid, luteolin, and apigenin as its bioactive constituents.
These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce muscle tension and promote relaxation. The antispasmodic properties of Melissa officinalis tinctures can also help to calm muscle spasms in the legs, reducing the urge to move. Additionally, the tincture's sedative properties can help to regulate the body's nervous system, promoting a restful night's sleep.
By reducing muscle tension and promoting relaxation, Melissa officinalis tinctures can help alleviate symptoms of restless leg syndrome.
- Gather 1 cup of Melissa officinalis flowers and leaves. Make sure they are clean and dry.
- Combine the flowers and leaves with 2 cups of 80% vodka in a clean glass jar. Make sure the herbs are fully covered by the vodka.
- Seal the jar and let it sit in a cool, dark place for 2-3 weeks. Shake the jar every day.
- After 2-3 weeks, strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass jar. Discard the solids.
- Store the tincture in a cool, dark place. Take 20-30 drops, 2-3 times a day, as needed for restless leg syndrome.
11. Cannabis sativa
Cannabis sativa tinctures contains a high concentration of boiactive constituents like cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).
These compounds interact with the body's endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in regulating muscle movement and relaxation. CBD, in particular, has been shown to have a calming effect on the nervous system, reducing muscle tension and spasms. The terpenes and flavonoids present in Cannabis sativa tinctures, such as myrcene and limonene, also contribute to its relaxing properties, helping to soothe and calm restless leg syndrome symptoms.
By reducing muscle tension and promoting relaxation, Cannabis sativa tinctures can provide relief from restless leg syndrome symptoms.
- Gather 1 cup of cannabis sativa flowers and 2 cups of vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the cannabis flowers in vodka for 2-3 weeks in a cool, dark place, shaking the jar daily.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into another clean glass jar.
- Discard the solids and store the tincture in a cool, dark place. The tincture is now ready to use.
- To use, take 10-20 drops of the tincture, 2-3 times a day, mixed with a tablespoon of water or food, as needed.
FAQ
Can drinking herbal tea prevent restless leg syndrome from forming?
Drinking herbal tea may help alleviate symptoms of restless leg syndrome.
Certain teas, such as valerian root and chamomile, have calming effects that can soothe muscle tension and promote relaxation.
These teas can also help regulate sleep patterns, which may be disrupted by restless leg syndrome symptoms.
Is it safe to consume herbal teas for restless leg syndrome every day?
Herbal teas can be a good option for restless leg syndrome, but drinking them every day may have some side effects.
Some teas, like those with valerian root, can make you feel drowsy or sleepy.
This might not be ideal if you need to stay active during the day.
How long does it take for herbal teas to show results in restless leg syndrome?
Herbal teas may help with restless leg syndrome, but it's hard to say exactly when you'll feel relief.
Some people find relief after a few hours or a day or two. Others might not notice a difference for a week or more.
It really depends on the person and the tea they're using.