Herbs That Help with Restless Legs Syndrome

Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is no one's idea of a fun night: As you try to go to sleep your feet and legs fight for you to move them, all while they're burning, itching and feeling all crawly inside and out. While some people go to their doctor to get an often costly prescription, you should visit yours and ask for her approval to try herbal and vitamin therapies that are a great deal less expensive.

No-Cost Therapy

• You may be able to help minimize your RLS simply by changing your routine. Make sure you are getting exercise, but do it early in the day, and never closer to bedtime than three hours. Stretch gently afterwards, and then again before going to bed. You should also drink plenty of water, as RLS can sometimes be triggered by muscle dehydration. In addition, before going to bed take a warm bath and add lavender oil to your bathwater. You might also try some gentle yoga stretches or meditation in the evening to help you release stress.

Herbal Therapies

• It is important to talk to your doctor before using herbal therapies, and you should not use these treatments if you're pregnant or under the age of 12. Herbal therapies don't work overnight, so give them some time before deciding whether they work. Here is a look at some of those thought to be most effective in treating RLS.
  Skullcap is used for relaxation and to reduce anxiety, but it also has a reputation of being hard on the liver, so talk to your doctor first. St. John's Wort also is thought to be effective, but under no circumstances should you use it if you take antidepressants.
  Valerian root is commonly used to encourage relaxation and induce sleep, though you should never combine it with alcohol. Hops have also been used to induce sleep and are used in teas, tinctures, baths and even sleep pillows (combined with lavender), though some people are allergic to the herb.
  Passion flower is a very good sleep inducer and anxiety reducer, but you should never use it while also using antidepressants. Corydalis and rooibos are little-known herbs that, used in a tea, can help induce deep sleep and act as natural muscle relaxers.

Vitamins to Supplement

• RLS can be caused by deficiencies of some vitamins and minerals, so adding these to your diet may eradicate the problem. Sublingual B vitamins such as folic acid, as well as magnesium and vitamin E, are thought to be important supplements for those suffering from RLS.