Herbs for Restless Leg Syndrome

Try these herbs for Restless Leg Syndrome. If restless legs are keeping you awake at night, these herbs may help you get a better night's rest.

Restless, jumpy legs can keep you and whoever is sleeping with you awake all night. Unfortunately, Restless Leg Syndrome causes are not known and neither is the cure. It often becomes worse with age. Restless Leg Syndrome treatment is usually with opiates which depress the central nervous system or with L-dopa which is used to treat Parkinson's disease.

It is believed that an iron defeciency in the brain may be the cause of restless legs but more studies need to be done on this. Taking iron supplements or increasing iron in the diet does not appear to help the problem.

If you suffer from the uncontrollable need to move your legs after you retire to bed because of a burning sensation or tickling sensations in the legs or feet, you may find some relief with some herbal remedies. Herbs can have an effect on other medicines that you are taking so it is important that you discuss with your doctor the herbs you want to try.

• Horse Chestnut seed extract improves the blood flow of the legs and may be helpful for restless legs. It may take several weeks to have an effect. Take 400 mg twice a day. Note: If you have a Horse Chestnut tree in your yard, don't try making your own remedy. All parts of the tree are poisoness when raw.

• Valerian has long been used as a sedative to enable sleep. It acts as a muscle relaxant and a cure for restlessness and anxiety. It needs to be taken over a long period of time for full effect. Follow the recommended dosage on the package.

• American Skullcap is used as a mild relaxant. It is available as an extract or a powder. It is usually made into a tea. Follow the instructions on the package. Do not confuse with Chinese Skullcap which is something entirely different.

• Butcher's Broom is popular in Europe for restless legs. It helps improve circulation. Use a standardized extract and follow instructions on the package.

These herbs for restless legs syndrome will not work immediately with one dosage. They need to be taken over a period of time before an effect will take place for most people. If you don't see improvement after a month to six weeks, discontinue use.