Restless legs syndrome is a chronic condition characterized by involuntary leg movements, particularly while sleeping or when trying to fall asleep. This condition can interfere with restful sleep, and can contribute to daytime fatigue. There is no known cause of restless legs syndrome. Although herbs cannot cure restless legs syndrome, they may reduce the effects of this condition. Check with your physician before taking any herb to treat restless legs syndrome.
Horse Chestnut
Horse chestnut is a tree that is native to Western Asia. The bark of this tree has a long history of use in herbal medicine as a remedy for diarrhea. The chemical compounds in horse chestnut bark may also reduce the severity of leg movements and cramping associated with restless legs syndrome, according to Gale Maleskey, author of the book "Nature's Medicines." They may improve blood flow to your legs, enhancing the delivery of oxygen, vitamins and minerals that regulate muscle contractions. Contact your doctor before using horse chestnut to treat restless legs syndrome. This herb may thin your blood, increasing your risk of excess bleeding from wounds.
Skullcap
Skullcap has been used in traditional Chinese medicine as a sedative and tranquilizer for more than 1,000 years, according to Michael Castleman, author of the book "The New Healing Herbs." This herb may help calm your central nervous system, which may reduce involuntary leg movements. It may also promote restful sleep, helping to alleviate fatigue associated with restless legs syndrome. Consult your physician if you plan to treat restless legs syndrome with skullcap -- in rare cases, it may cause stomach pains or diarrhea.
Cayenne
Cayenne is a hot pepper found in Jamaica, Central America, India and Asia. It is commonly used to add heat and flavor to foods from these areas. Cayenne contains capsaicin, a chemical that may dilate the blood vessels in your legs, improving blood flow, according to Castleman. This may help prevent leg cramps that commonly accompany restless legs syndrome. Talk to your doctor before treating restless legs syndrome with cayenne. This herb may cause heartburn and stomach upset.
Chamomile
Chamomile is an herb that is used today in teas for its calming benefits; however, it has been used as a tranquilizer and sedative since the times of the ancient Egyptians. Like skullcap, chamomile may help reduce sleep difficulties caused by restless legs syndrome. The chemical compounds in chamomile may also stimulate your immune system, according to Castleman. This may prevent bacteria, virus cells and fungi from attacking and damaging the muscles and nerves in your legs. Check with your physician if you plan to take chamomile -- although side effects are rare, chamomile may occasionally cause nausea.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Restless Legs Syndrome
- "The New Healing Herbs"; Michael Castleman; 2010
- "Nature's Medicines"; Gale Maleskey; 1999
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