Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) | Best For

RLS: CANNABIS FOR RESTLESS LEGS SYNDROME

RLS impacts approximately 22 million women a year in the USA, interrupting sleep and rest and  is defined by the following criteria:

1. An irresistible urge to move the legs, often accompanied by uncomfortable sensations.

2. Symptoms begin or worsen during periods of rest or inactivity.

3. Symptoms are partially or totally relieved by movement.

4. Symptoms worsen in the evening or at night.

5. Another medical or behavioral condition does not solely account for these symptoms.

While research into RLS and cannabis is limited, there is a high level of anecdotal information from cannabis consumers reporting a cessation of symptoms. One theory is that "The brains of patients with Restless Leg Syndrome may be in what is called a 'hyper-dopaminergic state' – too much dopamine is being released inside the basal ganglia."

Recent studies have shown that cannabis use is associated with reduced dopamine synthesis capacity. Thus, the efficacy of cannabis in patients with Restless Leg Syndrome may be due to its ability to prevent the excessive release of dopamine and restore regular neural activity in the basal ganglia.

It is too soon to claim that we fully understand the role of the brain's endogenous cannabis system in Restless Leg Syndrome. However, as more information accumulates, it might one day be possible to design effective cannabis-like drugs for RLS. Currently, the anecdotal wisdom suggests:

1. CBD acts as an anti-anxiety agent, musculoskeletal balancer, and analgesic. Adding between 2-5 mg of THC may also reduce the distraction of discomfort. 

2. CBN: Known for its sedative properties, CBN can be particularly beneficial for RLS patients who struggle to sleep. It may help improve sleep quality and duration, which is crucial for managing these conditions.

How Cannabis Can Help

Cannabis interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system (ECS), which plays a role in various physiological processes, including sensation and sleep. For RLS sufferers, this interaction can potentially help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

The main cannabinoids in cannabis affect the body in different ways:

* THC binds directly to cannabinoid receptors and can help with pain, mood, and appetite stimulation. In the case of RLS, THC also helps regulate dopamine levels.

* CBD helps reduce inflammation and anxiety and the resultant erosive effects on the body.

* CBN helps improve sleep quality, which is often disrupted in people who suffer from RLS.

Cannabis shows a lot of anecdotal evidence of supporting sufferers of RLS. Dosing combinations that leverage CBD and CBN, and using THC to balance dopamine, work best.

Stay tuned – OUI is staying on top of the latest research and will update this guide regularly with information you can trust and share with your doctors and friends.