Cannabidiol (CBD) is an active compound extracted from the cannabis plant. It is not intoxicating, that is, it will not give you too much, but it is growing in popularity, thanks to its large number of therapeutic benefits for conditions such as epilepsy, anxiety and cancer.
Can it help with Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) while you are there? The short answer is, perhaps.
Read on for more research on the limited effect of CBD on RLS and check out our picks for the best CBD oil.
When you buy CBD, you will notice these three main types:
- Isolate. This includes only CBD, with no added cannabinoids.
- Full spectrum. It includes all natural cannabinoids from the cannabis plant and includes THC.
- Broad spectrum. This includes several cannabinoids found naturally in the cannabis plant, but does not include THC.
You may have also heard of something called the entourage effect. According to some research, combining CBD and THC produces a more effective result, which is why some prefer full spectrum CBD as it includes THC.
THC is the main psychoactive compound found in cannabis, so keep in mind that it can increase you depending on how much you eat.
Full spectrum and broad spectrum CBD may also contain these compounds:
Right now, there is extremely limited research on CBD and RLS. This is what we know so far.
Dopamine synthesis
RLS may be associated with disruption of dopamine pathways in the brain.
A 2019 study that looked at cannabis use and its effects on RLS showed that chronic cannabis use is linked to reduced dopamine synthesis capacity, which may explain the effectiveness of cannabis in RLS.
Anecdotal evidence
A 2021 study that looked at the reasons for CBD use showed that 5% of people in the study used it for RLS.
Other anecdotal evidence also suggests that some people may find relief from RLS with CBD.
While there isn’t much hard science behind CBD for RLS, if you still want to try it, it’s probably okay to do so as long as you’re aware of the possible side effects and you’ve talked to your doctor first.
We have also selected these products based on criteria that we believe are good indicators of safety, quality and transparency. Each product in this article:
- is made by a company that provides third party testing for a laboratory that complies with ISO 17025
- is made from hemp grown in the United States
- does not contain more than 0.3 percent THC, according to the certificate of analysis (COA)
- approves testing of pesticides, heavy metals and molds, according to the COA
As part of our selection process, we have also considered:
- the certifications and manufacturing processes of the company
- product power
- general ingredients
- Indicators of user trust and brand reputation, such as:
Keep in mind that these oils have no added ingredients or properties that make them especially better for relieving RLS symptoms than other oils. Rather, we chose them because we believe they are of great quality overall.
Price guide
- $ = less than $ 25
- $$ = $ 25- $ 50
- $$$ = more than $ 50
Best CBD Isolated Oil for RLS
Lazarus Naturals Flavorless high potency CBD tincture
- Price: $ – $$$
- CBD type: isolate
- CBD power: 1,500 milligrams (mg) per 30 milliliter (mL) bottle.
- COA: available online
This selection is a CBD isolated oil. It offers a combination of high potency and simple flavor, making it a good choice for those who want to mix their oil with food or drink.
It is also formulated with organic coconut medium chain triglyceride (MCT) oil, which means it is not an ideal choice for those with nuts allergies.
Lazarus Naturals has an important Assistance Program: Offers a 60% discount on most of its product line for veterans, low-income households, and people with long-term disabilities.
Use the code “Healthline10” to get a 10% discount on your first order. Use only once.
The best broad-spectrum CBD oil for RLS
Ultra-wide spectrum CBD Medterra
- Price: $$$
- CBD type: broad spectrum
- CBD power: 1,000 or 2,000 mg per 30 ml bottle
- COA: available online
It is a broad-spectrum CBD tincture, which means it has the added benefits of additional cannabinoids and natural terpenes.
It is a non-transgenic product and is also made with organic MCT oil (coconut oil).
It comes with a dropper applicator to help you measure your correct dose, and comes in strawberry mint, citrus or flavorless options.
Use the code “health15” to get a 15% discount.
The best full spectrum CBD oil for RLS
CBD oil distilled from cornbread
- Price: $$ – $$$
- CBD type: full spectrum
- CBD power: 375 mg per 15 ml bottle, or 750 or 1,500 mg per 30 ml bottle
- COA: available online
Cornbread hemp describes this oil as an oil with a mild, mild flavor, best for daytime use.
This oil is certified by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and is made only from hemp flowers, which means it is made without stems, stems, leaves or seeds. Some say it provides a cleaner taste.
Cornbread hemp products have a 30-day warranty.
Use the code HEALTHLINE to get a 25% discount on your first order.
Taking CBD oil is pretty easy. First, you will want to shake the bottle to make sure it has a good consistency. Most oils will come with a dropper so you can place the oil directly under your tongue. Keep it there for at least 30 seconds before swallowing.
Some oils can be mixed with food or drink if you prefer, but this can affect absorption.
The right portion sizes for CBD differ widely and depend on individual factors, such as:
- body weight
- intended use
- metabolism
- body chemistry
Finding your ideal dose can lead to a bit of trial and error. It’s always a good idea to start slowly, looking at the recommended dose of the product or the dose you’ve talked to your doctor about. You can always increase the dose and frequency until you reach the results you are looking for. But again, it’s best to talk to your doctor first.
Generally, doses can be taken at least 4 to 6 hours apart, at any time of the day. However, if you want to relieve the symptoms of RLS at night, take it at least 1 hour before bedtime.
CBD can also improve insomnia by encouraging restful sleep.
When looking for CBD oil, keep in mind that not all CBD products are created with the same practices and high quality testing.
The FDA has not yet approved any over-the-counter CBD products, so the best way to buy is to take the time to research carefully before buying any product.
Here are some general things to look for:
- Product test. Make sure your product comes with a complete and up-to-date COA from a trusted third-party lab. This is very important as the COA shows if the product contains both CBD and THC as the label says. This will also show if the product has been tested for contaminants such as mold, pesticides and heavy metals.
- Transparency of the company. The best responsible CBD brands will be direct on where their hemp is grown and how they produce their products.
- List of ingredients. Take a look at the ingredients before you buy. That way, you can look for anything you might be allergic to. You can also check for added ingredients that may be helpful for the condition you want to treat.
- Brand reputation. The CBD company you are buying may have pending lawsuits or received letters of warning from the FDA. A quick search before clicking “buy” can help you avoid these marks.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), CBD is believed to be safe, but some people may experience side effects, such as:
- fatigue
- diarrhea
- changes in appetite
- weight changes
It is a good idea to talk to your doctor before trying any CBD product, especially if you are taking any medication. CBD may interact with some medications.
It is always best to be careful when trying any new product for you. Look carefully at the list of ingredients before using the product to avoid possible allergic reactions.
Research on the effectiveness of CBD in RLS is very limited right now. However, some anecdotal evidence suggests that it may only help relieve the symptoms of RLS.
Talk to your doctor before testing for CBD and make sure you buy your CBD oil carefully.
Is CBD legal?The 2018 Agriculture Act removed the hemp from the legal definition of marijuana in the Controlled Substances Act. As a result, some hemp-derived CBD products with less than 0.3 percent THC are federally legal. However, CBD products that contain more than 0.3 percent THC are still under the legal definition of marijuana, making them illegal at the federal level but legal under some state laws. Be sure to consult state laws, especially when traveling. Also, be aware that the FDA has not approved over-the-counter CBD products, and some products may be incorrectly labeled.
Breanna Mona is a writer living in Cleveland, Ohio. He has a master’s degree in media and journalism and writes about health, lifestyle and entertainment.
