Restless leg syndrome, RLS, is a condition characterized by uncomfortable, twitchy legs when you are lying or sitting down. Symptoms appear worse at night and tend to interrupt sleep. Medication, massage and lifestyle changes are often recommended by doctors for relief. Some medications are accompanied by side effects and may actually worsen symptoms over time. Additionally, most medications cannot be taken by pregnant women who often experience restless legs. Herbs, vitamins and mineral supplements may offer relief.
Valerian
Valerian is a plant native to Europe and Asia and is now grown in the United States. It is available as a dietary supplement in capsule, extract and tea form and has been used medicinally for thousands of years. In March 2009, the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing studied the effects of Valerian on sleepiness and symptoms of RLS. It reported that 800 mg of Valerian over eight weeks improved symptoms of RLS and decreased daytime sleepiness usually associated with RLS. Headaches, dizziness and gastrointestinal disturbances are the most commonly reported side effects. Pregnant women and children should not take Valerian without medical advice.
Folic Acid
Folic acid or folate, is a water-soluble B vitamin that helps the body make healthy, new cells. A study published in the "Canadian Medical Association Journal" in 1976 associated folic acid deficiency with neuropsychiatric disorders including restless leg syndrome. "Alternative Medicine Review" stated in June 2007 that folic acid therapy alleviated symptoms of the syndrome. Because folic acid is water-soluble, the risk of toxicity is very low. This study indicated that a 5- to 10-mg dose of folic acid controlled symptoms.
Magnesium
Magnesium is a mineral that helps maintain normal muscle and nerve function. Magnesium deficiencies are rarely seen in the U.S., but concerns exist that magnesium storage might not be sufficient in some individuals. Individuals are at risk for magnesium deficiency or insufficiency if they take medications such as diuretics and antibiotics, are undergoing cancer treatments, have chronic malabsorption problem or, alcoholism, are at an advanced age or if they make poor dietary choices. A study in August 1998 at the Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy at Albert-Ludwigs-University in Germany determined that magnesium therapy alleviated symptoms in mild to moderate RLS. In this study, 500-mg supplements were taken in the evening. High doses of magnesium can result in diarrhea and abdominal cramping. Due to side effects and possible medicine interactions, seek medical advice prior to magnesium supplementation.
Iron
Iron, the most abundant metal on earth, is essential to the human body. Iron and iron stores are required for oxygen transportation to muscles and cells. Decreased intake or absorption resulting in daily iron deficit can lead to deficiency over time. RLS is often associated with iron deficiency. In October 2009, the Department of Medicine at Madigan Army Medical Center concluded that oral iron supplementation of patients with RLS and low to normal ferritin levels received statistically significantly improvement in their RLS symptoms. Excess iron can result in toxicity and death; therefore, supplements should only be taken upon medical advice.
References
- Pubmed: Canadian Medical Association Journal: Neurologic Disorders Responsive to Folic Acid Therapy
- Pubmed: Alternative Medicine Review: Restless Legs Syndrome: Pathophysiology and the Role of Iron and Folate
- Pubmed: Sleep: Magnesium Therapy for Periodic Leg Movements-Related Insomnia and Restless Legs Syndrome: An Open Pilot Study
- NIH: Office of Dietary Supplements: Magnesium
- Pubmed: Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine: Does Valerian Improve Sleepiness and Symptom Severity in People With Restless Legs Syndrome?
