Patients struggling with restless legs syndrome (RLS) have long touted the efficacy of cannabis in treating the disorder--the results of a recent study by French researchers appear to confirm this long-held hypothesis.

According to The National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws (NORML), “all patients [in the study] reported ‘total relief of RLS symptoms as well as complete improvement of sleep quality’ following their use of marijuana.” This is fantastic (though anticipated) news for the approximately 10 percent of Americans that struggle with the disorder.

 

What is RLS?

Restless legs syndrome is a disorder of the part of the nervous system that causes an urge to move the legs. Because it usually interferes with sleep, it also is considered a sleep disorder. RLS can be characterized by uncomfortable sensations, spasms, or a persistent itchy feeling in the legs--these symptoms are generally worse at night and/or when lying or sitting.

There currently is no cure for RLS, though certain lifestyle changes and non-drug treatments have proven beneficial in improving patients’ quality of life.

Cannabis and RLS

CBD has repeatedly shown the capacity to help manage spasms and nervous-system related disorders, so the confirmation that cannabis can help with RLS isn’t necessarily a surprise.

Though, it does appear to have motivated cannabis investors to move forward in developing RLS-specific medicine. Just within the past month, AXIM Biotechnologies announced it has agreed to begin “a clinical proof of concept study with its CBD chewing gum product to treat RLS in patients.” The gum, composed of CBD and a half dose of the already-accepted RLS remedy gabapentin, will be aimed at helping patients “lower severe pain, increase sleep quality, and reduce restless sensations of the limbs.” The clinical trial is set to begin in Israel soon.

For now, Elemental Wellness offers several high-CBD meds that many RLS patients have found to be of great benefit, including our Care By Design 18:1 tincture and Bhang CBD Caramel Chocolate. Stop by on CBD Sunday (every week on Sunday, all day) for 20% off all high-CBD meds!