CBD is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid found in cannabis. The research may not be conclusive, but early studies and anecdotal evidence suggest that CBD has diverse therapeutic benefits, one of them being helping manage restless legs syndrome (RLS).
Restless legs syndrome is a disorder characterized by an uncontrollable urge to move the legs, accompanied by a constant feeling of discomfort. This disorder usually causes victims to experience pain in the legs, difficulty falling asleep, sleep disturbances, and fatigue.
The symptoms of restless legs syndrome (RLS) are usually made manifest when the victim assumes a sitting or lying position, especially in the evenings. According to a study, CBD might be beneficial in promoting the remission of symptoms of restless legs syndrome.
What is Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS)?
Restless legs syndrome, also called Willis-Ekbom disease, is a neurological sensory disorder where the victim battles a never-ending urge to move their legs. This disorder is also accompanied by an unsettling crawling sensation in the feet, calves, and thighs.
Characterized by involuntary jerking of the legs, and sometimes arms, the symptoms of restless legs syndrome are usually exacerbated during the night. Some people experience the symptoms periodically while others accept the symptoms as a daily occurrence.
Although the cause of restless legs syndrome has not been pinpointed, according to some specialists, RLS may be rooted in the body’s reaction to dopamine. The symptoms can be lightweight or severe, but in severe cases, the victim is usually to an extent, incapacitated.
Does CBD Oil Work for Restless Legs?
Treating RLS is usually complicated, as the condition has no definitive cure. Conventionally, victims are handed analgesics, dopamine agonists, anti-seizure drugs, and sleeping tablets.
Although these drugs might have some healing properties, the positive effects are usually short-lived, and more often than not, the victim is left to deal with a range of side effects.
Research on how CBD mitigates various health issues is incomplete. However, anecdotally, many people have revealed that CBD is beneficial in minimizing restless legs syndrome.
CBD has not been sanctioned as a definitive cure for RLS, but it is capable of counteracting a range of symptoms normally triggered by restless legs syndrome.
When a person has restless legs syndrome, the never-ending urge to move their legs usually leaves them tense and rigid. CBD may be great for eliminating tension and discomfort. With regular CBD massages, one might easily reduce the feeling of discomfort.
This neurological disorder is notorious for robbing people of their sleep. I mean, if you’re constantly battling the urge to move your legs while in bed, it can be difficult to fall and stay asleep. CBD has been suggested to be an effective supplement for boosting sleep quality.
Considering RLS symptoms undermine the victim’s stability, the victim grows susceptible to mental issues like stress and anxiety, which can ultimately add a negative influence over their personality. CBD may exert anxiolytic and relaxing properties, improving stability.
When the symptoms of restless legs syndrome set in, the victim may be so disturbed as to experience low moods and potentially develop a negative self-image. However, constant CBD consumption is associated with uplifting moods, a foundation for great self-image.
Certain medications that RLS victims are given to manage the symptoms can sometimes leave the victim experiencing various side effects like nausea and stomach pain. CBD has been suggested to have antiemetic and analgesic properties, which are essential in cutting out the urge to vomit, eliminating pain, and restoring a healthy appetite.
What is the Best CBD Oil to Take for Restless Legs?
CBD products come in different formats, and they can be ingested in different ways. Some of the common styles of ingesting CBD products include sublingual, oral, and topical ingestion.
Also, there are three main types of CBD; isolate, Broad Spectrum, and Full Spectrum. Isolate CBD describes the purest CBD, with most cannabinoids and compounds eliminated.
Broad Spectrum CBD describes the CBD type that contains all the naturally occurring compounds and cannabinoids found in the hemp plant, except THC.
Full Spectrum consists of all the organic compounds and cannabinoids found in the hemp plant, including THC, and is considered the most effective and powerful type of CBD.
Full Spectrum CBD is noted for achieving the entourage effect, a phenomenon where cannabinoids and plant ingredients work synergistically to improve its therapeutic profile.
While Full Spectrum is the most effective type of cannabidiol, there are instances where other types may be ideal. For instance, if you were preparing for a drug test, the ideal type to take would be isolate or Broad Spectrum, as they don’t leave any THC in your system.
How Much CBD Oil Should You Take for Restless Legs Syndrome?
The dosage might influence the effectiveness of CBD in managing the symptoms of RLS; if you underdose, it may slow down results, and if you overdose, it may trigger side effects.
The correct dose varies from person to person, as different factors influence the dose. Some of these factors include weight, age, allergies, CBD potency, and pre-existing health issues.
Generally, the recommended dose is 25 mg per 100 pounds of body weight. If you’re a newbie, it’s recommended to start with a small dose before adjusting to a bigger dose as you study how your body reacts. For good results, it’s important to take CBD regularly.
Should You Be Worried if You Have Restless Legs?
If you’re subjected to constant jerking of the legs, you’re going to be uncomfortable, but then restless legs syndrome cannot be termed a critical condition.
In most situations, RLS is not dangerous, but in some instances, it might be a sign of underlying medical problems like iron deficiency anemia or kidney failure.
Once you notice that you’re battling a persistent urge to move your legs, that’s one of the major signs of restless legs syndrome, and it’s recommended to see a health specialist.
What Else Can Help with Restless Legs?
Although restless legs syndrome is a lifelong health issue for which there is no cure, you can rely on certain therapies and supplements to manage the disorder and minimize symptoms.
If the symptoms are mild, and you have no underlying health issues, something as minor as changing your lifestyle may be very effective at managing the symptoms.
Some of the lifestyle changes that may be helpful include working out, meditating, quitting smoking, minimizing alcohol, observing good sleep habits, and doing relaxation exercises.
