Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) can be an incredibly frustrating condition to live with, as it may disrupt sleep and impact everyday life.
As people search for effective remedies, the use of Cannabidiol (CBD), a compound found in hemp plants, is gathering more interest.
CBD is becoming increasingly recognised for its potential therapeutic benefits, including pain relief and relaxation.
Could it be an effective solution for those grappling with RLS?
CBD Oil for Restless Legs – Does it Work?
Research for RLS is still ongoing.
However, anecdotal evidence and a few preliminary studies suggest potential benefits.
CBD has been studied for its effects on various neurological conditions, including epilepsy and multiple sclerosis.
The properties of CBD that help with those conditions may also help alleviate the discomfort and restlessness associated with RLS.
There are some anecdotal reports of people finding relief from RLS symptoms after using CBD oil.
However, these are individual experiences and may not apply universally.
Additionally, a small study published in Sleep Medicine in 2017 suggested that cannabis, which contains CBD along with other compounds, could improve symptoms in some people with restless leg syndrome.
However, this study was small and uncontrolled, and it’s unclear how much of the benefit was due to CBD specifically.
If you’re considering using CBD oil for restless leg syndrome, it’s crucial to discuss this with your doctor, who can provide advice based on your specific circumstances as well as the most up-to-date research.
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What is Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS)?
Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) – also called Willis-Ekbom Disease – is a neurological condition characterised by an unpleasant and irresistible urge to move your legs due to uncomfortable sensations.
These sensations are often challenging to describe but have been likened to itching, creeping, pulling, or tugging.
Symptoms are typically worse in the evening or at night and can significantly affect sleep quality, leading to daytime tiredness or fatigue.
Sitting or lying down for extended periods often triggers these symptoms, which can be temporarily relieved by moving or stretching the legs.
The severity of RLS symptoms varies from mild to severe and can change day by day.
The cause of RLS is often unknown, but it may be linked to genetic factors, iron deficiency, or certain health conditions such as kidney failure, diabetes, or peripheral neuropathy.
Some medications may also exacerbate RLS.
While there is no cure for RLS, there are treatments available that can help manage symptoms.
These include lifestyle changes, physical therapy, medications, and, increasingly, alternative therapies such as the use of CBD, which is the subject of ongoing research.
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What is the Best CBD Oil to Take for Restless Legs?
For conditions such as restless leg syndrome, I suggest using Full Spectrum CBD oil under the tongue.
Sublingual administration is most effective due to its interaction with the endocannabinoid system (ECS).
This consumption method works from inside the body and hits all receptors, making it an excellent choice for RLS sufferers.
Another good product to try would be a topical CBD product, such as our Body Oil or Balms.
These products are used by applying directly to the skin.
Not only do we have receptors inside our bodies, but we also have them in our muscles and skin surface.
So, applying directly to your skin impacts your local receptors and could hopefully result in calming your restless legs.
Please remember several factors should be considered when deciding which kind and brand of CBD oil to use.
These factors include quality/purity, type of CBD (broad or full spectrum), strength, method of administration, and legal status.
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How Much CBD Oil Should You Take for Restless Leg Syndrome?
Determining the right amount of CBD for Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) can vary significantly between individuals, depending on factors like body weight, the severity of symptoms, and individual response to CBD.
There’s no one-size-fits-all dosage, and research specifically focusing on CBD for RLS is still limited.
A common approach is to start with a low dosage, such as 10-25 milligrams per day, and gradually increase it while observing the effects on RLS symptoms.
Some people may find relief with a moderate dosage, while others might need more to see benefits.
Monitoring your body’s response and adjusting the dosage is essential.
Since CBD can interact with other medications, it’s advisable to consult with a doctor before starting CBD, especially if you’re taking other medications for RLS or related health conditions.
Please see our CBD dosage blog post for more information on this.
Should You be Worried if You Have Restless Legs?
RLS is not typically associated with life-threatening health risks.
However, severe or more persistent symptoms can significantly impact your quality of life and warrant treatment or medical attention.
RLS can sometimes be linked to underlying health conditions, such as iron deficiency, kidney failure, or peripheral neuropathy.
It may also just be a side effect of certain medications.
In these cases, addressing the underlying issues may improve RLS symptoms.
Additionally, if RLS is causing sleep disturbances, this could lead to daytime fatigue, mood changes, or cognitive difficulties, potentially impacting daily activities, work performance, and overall well-being.
While RLS is typically not a dangerous condition, if you’re finding it bothersome or if it’s impacting your sleep or daily life, it’s certainly worth seeking out further advice or treatment to manage symptoms.
What Else Can Help with Restless Legs?
In addition to exploring emerging therapies like CBD oil, there are a variety of strategies that can help manage Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS):
- Lifestyle Changes: Regular physical activity can alleviate RLS symptoms for some people, although intense exercise close to bedtime may worsen symptoms. Avoiding caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine, which are known to trigger RLS symptoms, can also be beneficial.
- Sleep Hygiene: Maintaining a regular sleep routine and creating a restful environment can help improve sleep quality. This includes keeping your bedroom cool, dark, and quiet and avoiding screens before bedtime.
- Diet: Some people with RLS have been found to have iron or vitamin D deficiencies. Consult your healthcare provider to see if a blood test is necessary and if supplements might help.
- Leg Massage and Warm Baths: These may temporarily relieve symptoms and be a valuable part of a bedtime routine to help induce sleep.
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): CBT can help manage the impact of RLS on sleep and quality of life, teaching you coping strategies for dealing with symptoms.
- Compression Devices: Some people find that using compression socks or wraps can alleviate the discomfort of RLS.
Lisa’s Tops Tips For Using CBD Oil for Restless Legs Syndrome
In my experience, if you are suffering from RLS, using full-spectrum CBD oil under the tongue but also using our body oil applied directly to your legs is the best option.
I have used our body oil for restless legs due to anxiety, and it calmed my legs within minutes.
Please remember everybody responds to things differently, so starting with CBD involves trial and error with what will work for you.
Consistency and experimentation are key.
Final Notes on CBD for Restless Legs Syndrome
Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) is a really frustrating neurological condition causing a constant need to move the legs.
The potential therapeutic benefits of Cannabidiol (CBD), such as pain relief and relaxation, have led to inquiries about its usefulness in alleviating RLS symptoms.
Current research suggests potential benefits, but definitive results are still lacking due to limited studies.
Traditional treatment methods and lifestyle changes should not be overlooked while considering CBD as an additional remedy for your restless legs.
Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and good sleep hygiene can significantly help manage RLS symptoms.
Every individual’s experience with CBD is unique.
So, finding the optimal strategy when using CBD oil for restless legs often requires a degree of trial and error.