Restless legs syndrome causes symptoms including cramps, jumpiness, leg thrashing, crawling sensations and pins-and-needles sensations. Approximately 5 percent of the population suffers from the condition, and that number jumps to 10 percent for those over age 65, according to Johns Hopkins Center for Restless Legs Syndrome. While the need for further scientific proof exists, research indicates that Valerian root may help alleviate symptoms of restless legs syndrome.
Restless Legs Syndrome
A neurological condition, restless legs syndrome, otherwise known as Ekbom's syndrome or RLS, is characterized by deep discomfort in your legs. Typically felt in your calves, sensations can occur elsewhere in your legs, as well as in your arms, trunk and genitals. Symptoms commonly appear just before sleep, producing an irresistible urge to move your legs. Almost all RLS patients suffer from periodic, involuntary leg movements during rest, preventing them from falling or staying asleep, according to Johns Hopkins Center for Restless Legs Syndrome. Though the medical profession cannot pinpoint the cause of RLS, risk factors may include heredity and nerve damage due to alcoholism, diabetes or kidney problems.
Valerian Root Description
Indigenous to Europe and northern Asia, Valerian grows wild in damp conditions. The perennial plant grows up to four feet tall and bears clusters of pink flower heads. The root, the part of the plant used for medicinal purposes, contains key constituents, including essential oil, valerenic acid and chemically unstable compounds called valepotriates.
Valerian Root Benefits
Used medicinally since the second century A.D., the active ingredients in Valerian's pungent root seem to have the ability to depress the central nervous system, sedate muscles, improve the quality of sleep, relieve insomnia and reduce the time needed to fall asleep, according to certified nutritional consultant Phyllis A. Balch. Balch, author of the book, "Prescription for Herbal Healing," further adds that dozens of over-the-counter sleep products contain valerian. (See Reference 3) Furthermore, a 2009 study conducted at University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing in Philadelphia showed that taking 800 mg of valerian for eight weeks not only relieves RLS symptoms but also lowers daytime fatigue in certain patients. Researchers conclude that valerian might work as an alternative treatment for RLS symptoms, providing patients with improved quality of life.
Considerations
Available in tablets and tinctures, besides increasing the effects of barbiturates and tranquilizers, Valerian root generally has little, if any, adverse effects. People who take the root over long periods of time, however, may experience withdrawal symptoms, including agitation, racing heart, headache and even insomnia. The University of Maryland Medical Center cautions against taking Valerian root while driving or operating heavy equipment and suggests that individuals get a doctor's approval before using the root for periods longer than one month. Children and pregnant and nursing women should avoid using Valerian root.
References
- Johns Hopkins Medicine: The Johns Hopkins Center for Restless Legs Syndrome
- "DK Natural Health Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine"; Andrew Chevallier; 2000
- "Prescription for Herbal Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch; 2002
- PubMed: Does Valerian Improve Sleepiness and Symptom Severity in People With Restless Legs Syndrome?
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Valerian
