If you are looking for simple and effective home remedies for restless leg syndrome, continue reading this article and find out what they are. But first.
Restless Leg Syndrome or RLS is a very nagging condition that manifests as an accentuated leg discomfort, which usually intensifies in the evening when lying in bed. Restless leg syndrome symptoms are mostly felt in the calf area of the leg. However, they can be felt anywhere between the upper thigh and lower calf. Before we get into the home remedies for restless leg syndrome, let’s see what triggers RLS.
In This Article You Will Find:
Symptoms of Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS)
The symptoms of restless leg syndrome can range from a simple tingling sensation to severe pain in the legs. The immediate reaction of the patient is to move their legs, which is a monetary pain and discomfort relief, but as soon as the movement stops, the discomfort kicks back in. These symptoms are:
- Itching
- Pain
- Gnawing
- Burning
- Trembling
- Twitching
Most often, the only way to stop restless legs is to start moving, hence getting out of bed. This syndrome is more prevalent in the elderly population, pregnant women, diabetics, or people with lower back problems. Before we get into the home remedies for restless leg syndrome, let’s see what causes it.
Restless Leg Syndrome Causes
- Viral Load – More recent findings relate restless leg syndrome to an undiagnosed viral or bacterial load in the body. Author Anthony Williams explains in his books that restless leg syndrome can be caused by the shingles virus, streptococcus in the intestines, liver inflammation due to viruses, and body toxification, as well as heavy metals in the body.
- Low Immunity – Immunity imbalances or changes can often be the cause of restless leg syndrome. This is why RLS is so prevalent in pregnant women. This is caused by a drop in the immune system (during pregnancy) and viral proliferation.
- Dopamine Imbalance – Scientists suspect that they are triggered by an imbalance in dopamine in the brain. Dopamine is the neurotransmitter responsible for controlling muscle movements. Others believe that RLS relates to a mineral deficiency in the body, namely magnesium.
- Pre-existing Conditions – In most cases, RLS is not associated with an already existing severe illness. However, it often accompanies other conditions, such as peripheral neuropathy, iron deficiency, and kidney failure. This also explains the previous point that RLS is caused by viruses and bacteria that contribute to different chronic health issues.
- Spine Issues – Other possible causes of restless leg syndrome are sciatica, frozen SI joint, or other spinal issues, or an abundance of calcifications in the body.
What Triggers Restless Leg Syndrome?
Before we jump into the home remedies for restless leg syndrome, we need to understand what triggers these symptoms. The symptoms of restless leg syndrome can be heightened by dietary habits, such as regular consumption of sugar, caffeine, and alcohol, as well as some prescription drugs. Studies have shown that RLS is more prevalent in smokers and can be exacerbated by sinusitis and antihistamine drugs, which can worsen the symptoms. It is important to consult with your doctor before trying any of the home remedies for restless leg syndrome, including supplements, taking, or homeopathic medicine presented here.
6 Natural Remedies for Restless Leg Syndrome
1. Powerful Herbal Remedy for Restless Leg Syndrome
In 1861, German neurologist Theodor Wittmaack was describing a very peculiar case. His patient felt an unstoppable urge to move their legs restlessly, especially before falling asleep. Almost a century later, in 1945, Swedish neurologist Axel Ekbom managed to distinguish two forms relating to the condition. The first was paraesthesia, in which the patient described an irritating tingling that forced him to move his legs, especially when lying down. The latter was the algetic form, in which pain was the predominant manifestation of the condition, impeding proper sleep.
Although they didn’t manage to find the exact cause of the latter, called restless leg syndrome, they related it to stress, prolonged tension, and depression. There are no drugs that can actually cure RLS, but there are herbal home remedies for restless leg syndrome that have proven their efficiency.
How to Use the Remedy
One of the most effective natural medicines for restless leg syndrome uses a plant called Leonorus cardiaca, or common motherwort. This herb is one of the top home remedies for restless leg syndrome out there. Here is how to use it.
- Prepare an infusion with 2 tsp of dried motherwort in 250 ml of boiling-hot water.
- Drink this tea three times a day for best results.
People who have followed this simple remedy for RLS have said that the condition soon stopped after a few days of drinking this wonderful tea, and it hasn’t returned ever since. This tea is one of the best home remedies for restless leg syndrome.
2. Calcium & Magnesium Supplements for RLS
Take 800 mg of calcium and 400 mg of magnesium daily and 800 mg of potassium daily. For starters, you can take a lower dosage of these 2 supplements, but make sure to keep the same 2:1 ratio. 500 mg of calcium and 250 mg of magnesium is a great starting point. Lacking one of these minerals in the body can cause impatience and nervousness. You can also replace your drinking water with water that is high in magnesium. The optimum magnesium content in the water is around 100 mg/L. This is one of the best home remedies for restless leg syndrome out there.
3. Folic Acid Remedy for RLS
One of the most effective home remedies for restless leg syndrome is a simple vitamin that is lacking or very low. Increasing the intake of B9 Vitamin, also known as folic acid, helps the body renew the red blood cells, which leads to proper oxygenation of the entire body. This is important because restless leg syndrome has been associated with lower oxygen levels in the bloodstream. Amongst the best natural sources of folic acid, you have leafy greens, green veggies, legumes, whole grains (gluten-free), and fresh orange juice. We do not recommend multivitamins containing folic acid, as the majority of them on the market are of poor quality. Instead, up your leafy greens and microgreens.
4. Iron Remedy for Restless Leg Syndrome
Have a plant-based diet rich in iron, because this mineral is a major component of myoglobin, a protein that helps store oxygen in the muscles. In the case of iron deficiency, myoglobin cannot store enough oxygen in the muscles, which can lead to restless legs symptoms. The best sources of iron are dried legumes and fruits, dark leafy greens, and iron-rich fruits like berries, coconut, or apricots. Avoid iron supplements that are not plant-based, as they can feed viruses, according to Medical Medium. Instead, have plenty of:
- spinach, barley grass juice powder, parsley, wild blueberries, grapes (black, purple, or red), blackberries, cilantro, burdock root (juiced), potatoes (with skins), kale, sprouts, squash, pumpkin seeds (in small amounts as they contain fats), asparagus, sulfur-free dried apricots, and other fruits, leafy greens, herbs, wild foods, and vegetables with relatively high amounts of iron.
Reduce animal products and fats of all kinds so that iron levels are restored naturally. Iron is one of the best home remedies for restless leg syndrome that you can get from your diet or from plant-based iron supplements. We recommend the one from Pure Encapsulations or Deva.
5. Quinine Remedy for Restless Leg Syndrome
For some patients, quinine-based drinks have had a positive effect on ameliorating the symptoms related to restless legs. Lemonades and bitter-tasting drinks such as tonic waters are great sources of quinine. You can make your own tonic water with quinine by following this recipe here. In addition, quinine is a pathogen destroyer, which explains why it is one of the best home remedies for restless leg syndrome.
Homeopathic Remedies for RLS
In addition to the home remedies for restless leg syndrome above, homeopathic medicine recommends Causticum 4CH or Rhus toxicodendron (poison ivy) 4CH granules. You can take 3 granules of either one 3 times a day for a 15-day treatment. Another homeopathic remedy for RLS is Tarentula hispanica 4CH (spider venom) that you can take in the same dosage for calming the unrest and excitation of the nervous system. These are some of the best homeopathic home remedies for restless leg syndrome.
Massage and Stretching for RLS
In case you feel this urge to move, try to massage your legs or stretch them as much as you can. You can also try lifting your toes a few times. These voluntary movements send signals to the brain that can „short-circuit” the unpleasant leg tingling. However, stop the stretching exercises in case of leg cramps, which means the body is deficient in magnesium, in which case the exercises won’t help.
Sit at the side of the bed and vigorously massage the calves of your legs, so that the muscles are stimulated. If these procedures fall short, get up and walk for a few moments. Take large steps and bend your knees so that the muscles are well stretched while you walk. This simple massage is one of the most effective home remedies for restless leg syndrome and is so easy to make.
Bedtime Tips for Restless Leg Syndrome
Take a long, relaxing bath right before going to bed. Cooling off your feet could also help in case you’re suffering from RLS. For this, make cold compresses to wrap your feet in and go to bed. Alternate the 2 procedures by keeping your feet in warm water for 2 minutes and then in cold compresses for 1 minute. Repeat several times before going to bed. In the evening, it is also important to avoid alcohol or caffeinated drinks, because they are known to stimulate the muscles and the nerves in the legs. These simple tips will help you alongside the home remedies for restless leg syndrome above.
Relaxation Exercise for RLS
Lie down in the bed and perform the so-called progressive muscular relaxation. Start by taking deep breaths for a few minutes and then contract and relax the muscles in your feet. Hold the muscles contracted for a few seconds and then relax your feet again. Then continue upwards with the muscles in your calves, thighs, abdomen, neck, and facial muscles.
Read Also: 5 Natural Remedies for Shingles – A Holistic Approach
We hope the home remedies for restless leg syndrome and the natural tips here will help you regain your health completely. Let us know what has helped you reduce or even heal RLS in the comments below, so you can help more people suffering from restless leg syndrome. Stay healthy, naturally!
Share on Pinterest ❤️
