10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Restless Leg Syndrome

Herbal tinctures for restless leg syndrome are concentrated liquid extracts made from plants that have been traditionally used to alleviate symptoms of restlessness, tingling, and discomfort in the legs.

These tinctures help by soothing the nervous system, reducing inflammation, and promoting relaxation. Examples of herbal tinctures that show promise include valerian root, passionflower, and chamomile, which can be taken sublingually or added to water for consumption.

By using these tinctures, individuals with restless leg syndrome may experience improved sleep quality, reduced discomfort during the night, and a significant reduction in symptoms overall, leading to a better quality of life.

The following article describes in detail the most important tinctures for restless leg syndrome, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.

1. Valeriana officinalis

Valerian tinctures helps with restless leg syndrome because of its ability to calm the nervous system, reducing symptoms such as involuntary movements and sensations of tingling or burning.

The herb's sedative properties help to relax muscle cramps and spasms, promoting a sense of relaxation and reducing restlessness.

Additionally, valerian has been shown to increase the levels of neurotransmitters that promote sleep quality, further alleviating restless leg syndrome symptoms and improving overall sleep duration and quality.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Valeriana officinalis tinctures that help with restless leg syndrome.

• Valerenic acid: Acts as a GABA receptor agonist, which helps to increase the activity of GABA (inhibitory neurotransmitter) in the brain, reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation, thereby alleviating restless leg syndrome symptoms.
• Isovaleric acid: Exhibits sedative and anxiolytic properties by modulating the activity of neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine, which are involved in regulating muscle tone and motor control, contributing to the relief of restless leg syndrome symptoms.
• Valtrate: Possesses sedative and anxiolytic effects by modulating the activity of GABA receptors and other neurotransmitter systems, leading to a reduction in muscle tension and anxiety, which are key factors in the development of restless leg syndrome.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of valerian used to make tinctures for restless leg syndrome.

• Roots: Valeriana officinalis roots are rich in valerenic acid, a key compound responsible for the herb's sedative and calming effects.
• Stems: Valeriana officinalis stems contain valerenic acid and other compounds that contribute to the herb's anxiolytic and muscle-relaxing properties.
• Leaves: Valeriana officinalis leaves also contain valerenic acid, which helps to promote relaxation and reduce symptoms of restless leg syndrome.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh valeriana officinalis roots and stems at dawn when the plant is at its highest moisture content.
2. Clean and dry the harvested plant material to reduce bacterial contamination and preserve potency.
3. Combine 250 grams of the dried plant material with 750 milliliters of 95 percent ethanol in a clean glass container.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks to allow for maximum extraction.
5. Strain the liquid through cheesecloth and discard the solids then transfer the tincture to dark glass bottles for storage.

2. Magnolia grandiflora

Southern magnolia tinctures helps with restless leg syndrome because its active compounds, such as salicylic acid and saponins, have a calming effect on the nervous system.

These compounds help to reduce inflammation and irritation in the legs, which can contribute to feelings of restlessness and discomfort. Additionally, the tincture's sedative properties can help to promote relaxation and reduce muscle spasms, allowing for a more peaceful night's sleep.

By addressing these underlying causes, southern magnolia tinctures may provide natural relief from restless leg syndrome symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Magnolia grandiflora tinctures that help with restless leg syndrome.

• Magnolol: A phenolic compound that has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and muscle relaxant properties, which can help reduce muscle spasms and alleviate symptoms of restless leg syndrome.
• Honokiol: A lignan that exhibits sedative, anxiolytic, and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help regulate sleep patterns, reduce anxiety, and ease muscle tension associated with restless leg syndrome.
• Limonene: A terpene that has anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, and muscle relaxant properties, which can help reduce muscle cramps, spasms, and pain often experienced in restless leg syndrome.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of southern magnolia used to make tinctures for restless leg syndrome.

• Leaves: Magnolia grandiflora leaves are used in tinctures because they contain compounds that help to relax muscles and reduce nervous tension.
• Barks: Magnolia grandiflora barks are used in tinctures because they contain analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to alleviate restlessness and discomfort associated with restless leg syndrome.
• Seeds: Magnolia grandiflora seeds are used in tinctures because they contain sedative properties that can help to calm the nervous system and reduce symptoms of restless leg syndrome.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic southern magnolia for restless leg syndrome.

1. Harvest 1 pound of fresh magnolia grandiflora leaves and flowers from the plant in the morning.
2. Chop the plant material into small pieces to increase the surface area for extraction.
3. Combine the chopped plant material with 4 cups of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks, shaking the jar every day.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into another clean glass container, discarding the solids.

3. Hyoscyamus niger

Henbane tinctures helps with restless leg syndrome because of its unique composition.

The tincture contains a compound called scopolamine, which is an alkaloid that has a sedative effect on the nervous system. This allows it to calm down overactive nerves and muscles in the legs, reducing the urge to move them constantly. Additionally, henbane's antispasmodic properties help to relax muscle spasms and cramps that can contribute to restless leg syndrome.

By soothing the nervous system and relaxing the muscles, herbal henbane tinctures provide a natural relief from this distressing condition.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hyoscyamus niger tinctures that help with restless leg syndrome.

• Scopolamine: An alkaloid that helps with restless leg syndrome by relaxing muscle spasms and reducing anxiety, which can contribute to restless leg symptoms.
• Hyoscyamine: An alkaloid that may help alleviate restless leg syndrome by reducing muscle spasms and improving sleep quality, which is often disrupted in individuals with restless leg syndrome.
• Tropine: An alkaloid that may help with restless leg syndrome by reducing inflammation and promoting relaxation, which can help alleviate muscle tension and cramps associated with restless leg syndrome.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of henbane used to make tinctures for restless leg syndrome.

• Roots: They are used due to their high concentration of scopolamine and hyoscyamine, alkaloids with muscle-relaxing properties.
• Leaves: They are used because of their content of scopolamine and hyoscyamine, which helps to calm the nervous system and relax muscles.
• Seeds: They are used due to their higher content of alkaloids compared to other parts, providing a more potent remedy for muscle relaxation and anxiety.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 100 grams of hyoscyamus niger roots and leaves at dawn when the plant is at its peak potency.
2. Dry the plant material in a dark place at 50 degrees celsius for 24 hours to preserve its properties.
3. Chop the dried plant material into small pieces and combine it with 500 milliliters of 35-40% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks, shaking the jar daily to facilitate extraction.
5. Strain the liquid through cheesecloth and bottle the clear herbal tincture in dark glass containers for long-term storage.

4. Leonurus sibiricus

Motherwort tinctures helps with restless leg syndrome because it calms the nervous system, reducing anxiety and stress that can exacerbate symptoms.

The herb's sedative properties also help to relax the muscles and calm restlessness in the legs, allowing for a more peaceful sleep.

Additionally, motherwort has been shown to regulate blood flow and reduce inflammation, which may contribute to its ability to alleviate restless leg syndrome symptoms such as tingling, burning, and cramping sensations.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Leonurus sibiricus tinctures that help with restless leg syndrome.

• Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the muscles, thereby alleviating restless leg syndrome symptoms.
• Leucoside a: This iridoid glycoside has a sedative effect on the nervous system, which helps to calm the nerves and muscles, reducing the urge to move and alleviate restless leg syndrome symptoms.
• Leonurine: This alkaloid has a relaxing effect on the muscles and nervous system, which helps to reduce muscle tension and alleviate the symptoms of restless leg syndrome.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of motherwort used to make tinctures for restless leg syndrome.

• Leaves: The leaves of Leonurus sibiricus are used to make tinctures for restless leg syndrome due to their sedative and antispasmodic properties.
• Roots: The roots are used due to their ability to relax muscles and promote a good night's sleep, which is often disrupted in people with restless leg syndrome.
• Stems: The stems of Leonurus sibiricus are used to make tinctures for restless leg syndrome due to their reported nervine and sedative effects.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh leonurus sibiricus leaves and flowers in the early morning after the dew has evaporated with 1 part plant material.
2. Chop the plant material into small pieces using a sharp knife to increase the surface area for extraction.
3. Combine the chopped plant material with 2 parts 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar to create a 1:2 ratio.
4. Seal the jar and store it in a cool dark place for 4 to 6 weeks to allow the tincture to mature.
5. Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass container to remove the plant material.

5. Piper methysticum

Kava tinctures helps with restless leg syndrome because its active compounds, particularly kavalactones, have a calming effect on the nervous system.

By promoting relaxation and reducing muscle tension, kava helps to alleviate the involuntary movements and discomfort associated with restless leg syndrome. Additionally, kava's anxiolytic properties may also help to reduce stress and anxiety, which can exacerbate symptoms of the condition.

As a result, many people find that kava tinctures provide effective relief from restless leg syndrome symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Piper methysticum tinctures that help with restless leg syndrome.

• Borneol: Acts as an anxiolytic and muscle relaxant, helping to reduce muscle tension and anxiety associated with restless leg syndrome.
• Kavain: Exhibits sedative and anti-anxiety properties, which can help alleviate symptoms of RLS such as restlessness, anxiety, and insomnia.
• Linderaline: A phenylpiperidine alkaloid that has been shown to have muscle relaxant and anxiolytic properties, which can help reduce muscle spasms and anxiety associated with RLS.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of kava used to make tinctures for restless leg syndrome.

• Roots: They contain the highest concentration of kavalactones, which are believed to be responsible for the plant's sedative and muscle-relaxing properties.
• Rhyzomes: They are a rich source of kavalactones, helping to alleviate symptoms of restless leg syndrome by promoting relaxation and reducing muscle tension.
• Leaves: They also contain kavalactones, which can help to soothe and calm the nervous system, making them useful in treating restless leg syndrome.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest the roots of piper methysticum, ideally in the morning after the plant has been watered, in mid to late summer.
2. Clean the harvested roots thoroughly with water to remove dirt and debris, and then pat them dry with a towel.
3. Combine the cleaned piper methysticum roots with a 1:2 ratio of roots to 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
4. Seal the jar and place it in a cool, dark location for 2 to 6 weeks, shaking the jar every day.
5. Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into another clean glass bottle, and discard the solids.

6. Crataegus monogyna

Hawthorn tinctures helps with restless leg syndrome because its bioactive flavonoids and oligomeric procyanidins have a profound impact on the nervous system.

The tannins in hawthorn work to calm irritated nerve endings, reducing the sensation of creeping, crawling, or tingling sensations that plague individuals with restless leg syndrome.

Additionally, hawthorn's vasodilatory properties help to improve blood flow and oxygenation to the legs, further alleviating discomfort and reducing the urge to move one's legs excessively.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Crataegus monogyna tinctures that help with restless leg syndrome.

• Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids in Crataegus monogyna tinctures, particularly hydroxycinnamic acids, have anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation and discomfort associated with restless leg syndrome.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids, such as quercetin and kaempferol, found in Crataegus monogyna tinctures, have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that may help alleviate symptoms of restless leg syndrome by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.
• Vitamins and flavonoids: The combination of vitamins (such as vitamin C) and flavonoids like Rutin in Crataegus monogyna tinctures may help reduce inflammation and improve blood flow to the affected areas, providing relief from the discomfort associated with restless leg syndrome.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of hawthorn used to make tinctures for restless leg syndrome.

• Leaves: Containing flavonoids and other bioactive compounds, which may help alleviate symptoms associated with restless leg syndrome.
• Fruits: Rich in flavonoids, phenolic acids, and other compounds that could contribute to their potential benefits for restless leg syndrome.
• Buds: Containing bioactive compounds similar to those found in leaves and fruits, which may help soothe and calm the nervous system.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1 cup of dried crataegus monogyna leaves and flowers in the morning after the dew has evaporated.
2. Chop the dried plant material into small pieces to increase the surface area for extraction.
3. Combine the chopped plant material with 2 cups of 80 proof ethanol in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks, shaking the jar every day.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids.

7. Avena sativa

Oats tinctures helps with restless leg syndrome because they contain a unique compound called avenanthramides, which have anti-inflammatory properties that soothe irritated nerves.

Additionally, oats are rich in saponins, which have been shown to relax muscles and reduce inflammation. When taken as a tincture, these compounds can be absorbed quickly into the bloodstream, providing rapid relief from restless leg syndrome symptoms such as tingling, burning, and creeping sensations in the legs.

This natural approach can help individuals find peaceful sleep and wake up feeling refreshed and renewed.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Avena sativa tinctures that help with restless leg syndrome.

• Avenanthramides: Avenanthramides, a class of phenolic compounds, help with RLS by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the nervous system, which are thought to contribute to RLS symptoms.
• Avenacosides: Avenacosides, a group of saponins, help with RLS by modulating the activity of GABA, a neurotransmitter that helps regulate muscle relaxation, and also by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the nervous system.
• Oryzanol: Oryzanol, a mixture of ferulic acid esters, helps with RLS by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the nervous system, which are thought to contribute to RLS symptoms, and also by modulating the activity of neurotransmitters involved in muscle relaxation.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of oats used to make tinctures for restless leg syndrome.

• Seeds: They contain a high concentration of saponins and other compounds that help to relax the muscles and reduce restlessness.
• Roots: The roots of Avena sativa are known to have a calming effect on the nervous system, which can help alleviate symptoms of restless leg syndrome.
• Leaves: The leaves of Avena sativa contain flavonoids and other compounds that may help to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation, which can be beneficial for individuals with restless leg syndrome.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest avena sativa roots and stems in the morning after the dew has evaporated.
2. Clean the harvested avena sativa plant material by rinsing it with filtered water.
3. Fill a glass jar with the cleaned avena sativa plant material and add 60-70% vodka as solvent.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks with occasional shaking.
5. Strain the liquid mixture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter and discard the solids.

8. Humulus lupulus

Hops tinctures helps with restless leg syndrome because of its unique composition, which includes flavonoids and essential oils that have a calming effect on the nervous system.

The tincture's ability to relax muscle spasms and reduce inflammation in the legs can provide relief from the uncomfortable sensations associated with restless leg syndrome. Additionally, hops' natural sedative properties can help promote relaxation and reduce stress, which are often triggers of the condition.

By addressing both physical and emotional aspects, herbal hops tinctures can offer a holistic approach to managing restless leg syndrome.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Humulus lupulus tinctures that help with restless leg syndrome.

• Humulone: This sesquiterpene helps with restless leg syndrome by acting as a muscle relaxant and reducing inflammation in the muscles, which can contribute to the condition.
• Xanthohumol: A prenylated chalcone, xanthohumol has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help reduce muscle spasms and alleviate symptoms of restless leg syndrome.
• 8-prenylnaringenin: A prenylated flavonoid, 8-Prenylnaringenin has been shown to have sedative and anxiolytic effects, which can help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation, potentially alleviating restless leg syndrome symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of hops used to make tinctures for restless leg syndrome.

• Flowers: They are rich in valerianic acid, which helps relax the muscles and reduce restlessness.
• Stems: They contain flavonoids and lignans that have a sedative and anti-inflammatory effect.
• Roots (although it's not a primary source): They contain valerenic acid, which is also present in the flowers, and can help with muscle relaxation.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 100 grams of dried humulus lupulus flowers at peak freshness for optimal potency.
2. Grind the flowers into a fine powder using a coffee grinder for 2 minutes.
3. Combine the powder with 500 ml of 80% ethanol in a clean glass jar for 2 weeks.
4. Shake the jar daily to ensure uniform extraction and saturation of the tincture.
5. Strain the liquid mixture through a cheesecloth into a separate container and discard the solids.

9. Melissa officinalis

Lemon balm tinctures helps with restless leg syndrome because it calms the nervous system, reducing the sensation of tingling and numbness in the legs.

The herb's sedative properties help to quiet the mind and body, allowing individuals to relax and fall asleep more easily. Additionally, lemon balm's anti-inflammatory compounds may help to reduce muscle cramps and spasms that can exacerbate restless leg syndrome.

As a result, users of herbal lemon balm tinctures often report improved sleep quality and reduced symptoms of restless leg syndrome.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melissa officinalis tinctures that help with restless leg syndrome.

• Luteolin: It helps with restless leg syndrome by acting as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound, reducing muscle spasms and promoting relaxation.
• Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound aids in reducing symptoms of restless leg syndrome by acting as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, thereby reducing muscle tension and spasms.
• Melissic acid: It contributes to alleviating restless leg syndrome symptoms by exhibiting a sedative and anxiolytic effect, promoting relaxation and reducing muscle cramps.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of lemon balm used to make tinctures for restless leg syndrome.

• Leaves: They are the primary part used due to their high concentration of essential oils, including citral, which has anti-inflammatory and relaxing properties.
• Stems: The stems of Melissa officinalis contain a significant amount of essential oils and flavonoids, which contribute to their calming effects and are often used in herbal remedies for restless leg syndrome.
• Roots: The roots of Melissa officinalis are sometimes used to make tinctures, as they contain a small amount of essential oils and flavonoids, which may help alleviate symptoms of restless leg syndrome.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh melissa officinalis leaves and flowers in the early morning when they are at their peak potency.
2. Dry the harvested plant material in a warm well-ventilated area for 1 to 2 weeks.
3. Weigh out 50 grams of dried melissa officinalis and add it to a clean glass jar.
4. Fill the jar with 100 proof vodka to cover the herbs completely and seal the jar tightly.
5. Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks shaking it every day.

10. Gentiana lutea

Yellow gentian tinctures helps with restless leg syndrome because of its ability to calm the nervous system, reducing feelings of anxiety and stress that can exacerbate symptoms.

The herb's bitter properties also help to normalize digestive function, which can be disrupted in individuals with restless leg syndrome, leading to uncomfortable sensations in the legs.

Additionally, yellow gentian has a sedative effect on the muscles, helping to relax cramped and twitching limbs, promoting a sense of calm and relief from discomfort.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Gentiana lutea tinctures that help with restless leg syndrome.

• Alkaloids: These compounds have a sedative and calming effect on the nervous system, which may help alleviate symptoms of RLS such as restlessness, anxiety, and muscle spasms.
• Flavonoids: These polyphenolic compounds have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the muscles and nerves associated with RLS.
• Iridoids: These compounds have been shown to have sedative, anti-anxiety, and anti-spasmodic effects, which may help relieve muscle cramps, spasms, and restlessness associated with RLS.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of yellow gentian used to make tinctures for restless leg syndrome.

• Roots: Rich in iridoid glycosides, which have a sedative effect and can help calm the nervous system.
• Leaves: Contain a range of bioactive compounds, including flavonoids and phenolic acids, that may contribute to their potential therapeutic effects on restless leg syndrome.
• Barks: Have been used in traditional herbal medicine for their analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help alleviate symptoms of restless leg syndrome.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic yellow gentian for restless leg syndrome.

1. Harvest fresh roots of gentiana lutea in late summer or early fall when they are mature and dry.
2. Clean and chop 100g of harvested roots into small pieces to increase surface area for infusion.
3. Combine chopped roots with 500ml of 95% ethanol in a clean glass jar for a 1:5 ratio.
4. Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks to allow roots to infuse into the ethanol.
5. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into another clean glass container to separate roots from liquid.

What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for restless leg syndrome?

The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with restless leg syndrome is a blend of Ashwagandha, Valerian root, and Passionflower.

Ashwagandha helps reduce anxiety and stress, while Valerian root promotes relaxation and calms the nervous system. Passionflower further aids in soothing muscle spasms and promoting a peaceful night's sleep. Taking these tinctures together can provide a synergistic effect, alleviating the symptoms of restless leg syndrome and promoting overall well-being.

Consult a healthcare professional before adding any herbal remedies to your routine.

What ailments similar to restless leg syndrome are treated with herbal tinctures?

Ailments similar to restless leg syndrome that are treated with herbal tinctures are various forms of peripheral neuropathy, sciatica, and muscle cramps.

Herbal remedies such as valerian root, passionflower, and skullcap may help alleviate symptoms like numbness, tingling, and burning sensations in the legs and feet. Other herbs like ginger and turmeric can reduce inflammation and soothe pain.

These herbal tinctures often work synergistically to provide relief from uncomfortable and distracting leg movements associated with restless leg syndrome-like conditions.