What would you do if you felt a consistent tingling, itching, and/or crawling sensation within your legs every day? How would you feel if you had to make various lifestyle changes because of constant body and leg restlessness?
People with restless leg syndrome (RLS) not only make lifestyle adjustments because of many uncomfortable symptoms they experience, but many must endure chronic symptoms that can take a toll on their quality of life. According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders & Strokes, it has been estimated that roughly 7% to 10% of the U.S. population is impacted by RLS. Even though there’s currently no cure for this syndrome, there are natural treatment methods available like cannabis and cannabidiol that can help alleviate many RLS symptoms.
Background of Restless Leg Syndrome & Its Significant Impact on One’s Life
Restless leg syndrome is classified as a neurological disorder that can impact anyone of any age. However, this syndrome gets more severe and painful as one gets older even though it’s not life-threatening. Sometimes, RLS is referred to as Willis-Ekbom Disease or Wittmaack-Ekbom’s Syndrome. These names come from one of the first doctors who discovered and identified RLS, which was Dr. Karl-Axel Ekbom in 1943.
Generally, restless leg syndrome causes different symptoms with many of them occurring and worsening in the evening. Thus, sleeping difficulties often occur because this syndrome frequently wakes people up or it becomes so uncomfortable that they cannot fall asleep. As a result, numerous people with RLS have a poor quality of life and a decline in their overall well-being.
In addition, according to the National Sleep Foundation, some individuals describe RLS as the following, “…the sensation of ants crawling through their legs or carbonation running through their veins.” Normally, when an individual is relaxing, sitting, or lying down, their symptoms get progressively worse. The severity of this disorder differs per person though. Most people experience relief after moving around a lot. Whereas, others don’t find relief from movements at all.
Currently, the precise cause of RLS is unidentified. But, there are different conditions that are closely linked to it. Some people can even develop RLS from medication-causing side effects. Unfortunately, since the exact cause of RLS is yet to be identified, it’s difficult to prevent it.
Common RLS Side Effects and Painful Symptoms
Although RLS affects every individual differently, there are multiple side effects and symptoms that are felt by most RLS patients. The following symptoms are felt by most affected individuals:
Sleeping difficulties and interruptions
Daytime fatigue and sleepiness
Restlessness, which can manifest into repetitive movements like tossing and turning in bed or pacing back and forth
Tingling, itching, and/or crawling sensations within the legs
A strong force to move and shake the legs to alleviate uncomfortable sensations
Unintentional movements or leg jolting during one’s sleep cycle, while resting, or even while wide-awake
Additionally, physical side effects include sleep loss, daytime sleepiness, overall discomfort, itchiness, and leg restlessness. Because this disorder can cause discomfort at any time of the day or night, some individuals opt out of social gatherings and events because of the pain they experience when sitting or standing for lengthy periods of time. Therefore, various emotional symptoms occur like loneliness, anxiety, depression, and isolation. On the plus side though, different treatment methods are available to help those with RLS live the best life they can. One rapidly-growing natural treatment method that can help is cannabis and CBD.
Traditional and Non-Traditional RLS Treatment Methods: What’s Right for You?
In recent years, RLS has gained more attention. However, this disorder has been documented and examined for centuries. There are both traditional and non-traditional treatment methods available, and it’s up to the individual to decide what’s best for them. Several traditional RLS treatment methods include vein treatments, foot wrap treatments, pharmaceutical medications, and specific exercises on a regular basis. There are also non-traditional, natural methods available too. Some of these include calf massages, warm and cold compresses, ice packs, warm baths, and cannabis and CBD products.
How Cannabis and Cannabidiol Usage Can Help Alleviate RLS Symptoms
Moreover, one 2017 study discovered that inhaled medicinal cannabis lessened RLS symptoms. Five out of the six subjects experienced full symptom remission after consuming cannabis, and CBD played a large role in symptom alleviation. After the cannabis treatment ended, all participants experienced sleep improvements. Another study found that Sativex (a sublingual cannabis-based spray that contains CBD and THC) helped 40-50 percent of the RLS patients with their sleeping issues. Fortunately, cannabis and CBD can help treat insomnia, but especially CBD, which often delivers sedative and mellow effects to users.
So far though, there’s a lack of clinical trials and studies on the topic of medicinal cannabis helping treat RLS. However, there are numerous anecdotal success stories that RLS patients continue to share. Due to cannabis and CBD’s analgesic properties, RLS patients who experience regular pain can find relief from consuming different cannabinoids. Also, because of the relief that’s delivered from cannabis, individuals can relax more easily, which results in better bedtime preparation to combat insomnia.
Also, due to the sleeping difficulties most RLS patients experience, other problems could arise like anxiety, depression, lessened mental functioning, and wear and tear to the body’s immune system. Fortunately, though, CBD contains natural anti-anxiety and anti-depressant properties. This cannabinoid can also provide the body with antioxidants, which can help improve one’s immune system.
Optimal Cannabis Strains to Alleviate RLS Symptoms
On another note, there are various cannabis strains that can be consumed to help alleviate RLS symptoms. The strains individuals use should be appropriate to the symptoms they want treated though. If RLS patients want to use cannabis to help with insomnia, high THC or high CBD strains are recommended. A few examples of these include granddaddy purple (indica), purple kush (indica), ACDC (hybrid and high CBD), and Charlotte’s Web (high CBD). All these strains can help alleviate pain, anxiety, and insomnia while also delivering physically and mentally relaxing effects.
Then, for nearly immediate relief, the best consumption methods include inhalation, sublingual administration, and topical usage. All in all, it’s essential to find the right cannabis strain and consumption method that’ll fit one’s exact needs and wants.
Although restless leg syndrome impacts twice as many females as males, it can still be detrimental to one’s quality of life regardless of their gender. If traditional treatment methods are ineffective or do more damage than good, it may be a sign to try something more natural like cannabis and/or Cannabidiol. If you could naturally improve your well-being and alleviate many painful chronic symptoms, would you?
He has a big audience and a huge voice with the administration – so what about Joe Rogan and marijuana?
The marijuana industry is struggling and thousands of mom and pop business are in limbo waiting for the federal government to add clarity to the future of the plant. During this difficult time, Joe Rogan continues to champion cannabis. Rogan, the prominent podcast host of The Joe Rogan Experience, has consistently voiced support for the legalization of cannabis. Recent cabinet and federal appointees are all over the map about the plant, so it is a benefit to have Rogan vocally being supportive.
Known for his candid discussions on controversial topics, Rogan often highlights the benefits of marijuana legalization, both in terms of personal freedoms and societal impact. His advocacy for cannabis reform is rooted in his belief in individual liberty and the potential benefits of marijuana use. He has argued adults should have the right to make their own choices regarding cannabis consumption, emphasizing its relatively low risk compared to substances like alcohol. In various episodes of his podcast, Rogan has pointed out that marijuana can foster creativity, relaxation, and even community bonding. He has also discussed its medicinal potential, particularly for veterans and individuals suffering from mental health conditions such as PTSD.
Rogan’s stance on cannabis legalization has intersected with political discourse. For instance, during the 2024 presidential campaign, he revealed Kamala Harris’s team declined to discuss marijuana legalization during negotiations for a potential podcast appearance. Rogan found this amusing given Harris’s prior public support for cannabis reform but speculated her prosecutorial record on marijuana offenses might have influenced this decision.
This incident underscores Rogan’s commitment to openly discussing cannabis policy, even when it challenges political figures. In addition to his advocacy for legalization, Rogan has debated the topic with guests who hold opposing views. For example, in a discussion with Congressman Dan Crenshaw, Rogan defended recreational cannabis use by comparing it to alcohol, which is federally legal despite its risks. He emphasized cannabis is a safer alternative and criticized stereotypes about marijuana users being unproductive. These debates reflect Rogan’s dedication to fostering nuanced conversations about cannabis policy.
Overall, Joe Rogan’s support for legal cannabis aligns with his broader philosophy of personal freedom and open dialogue. His platform continues to serve as a space for exploring the implications of marijuana legalization, from its social and economic benefits to its challenges. Through his podcast, Rogan has become a prominent voice in the ongoing debate over cannabis reform.
The immune system plays a vital role in defending the body against infections, including viruses like COVID-19. When the body is exposed to a pathogen, the immune system activates defense mechanisms to fight it off. COVID-19 specifically targets the respiratory system, but it can also affect other parts of the body, leading to a wide range of symptoms, including fever, cough, fatigue, and loss of taste or smell. In some cases, COVID-19 can trigger an overactive immune response, leading to inflammation, organ damage, and even severe complications.
The cannabis industry shouldn’t be a fan of TikTok considering their double standard with alcohol.
While it seems the administration is a fan China and their most famous tech company, the cannabis industry is not. Alcohol use disorder is a public health concern in China, especially among men. Culturally they are know for hard drinking, heavy smoking and occasionally illicit opium use. But the government is very anti marijuana lead to TikTok’s double standard on marijuana and alcohol. Despite a significant number of medical institutions recognizing the medical benefits, China and TikTok still hate on the green plant.
TikTok has established distinct policies regarding content related to cannabis and alcohol. TikTok strictly prohibits any content that depicts or promotes cannabis. This includes not only direct advertisements for cannabis products but also any visual or verbal references to cannabis use, sales, or trade. The platform’s community guidelines explicitly state that users should not post or share content that glorifies or encourages the use of drugs, including cannabis, regardless of its legal status in various regions.
While cannabis brands can create educational content about cannabis culture and personal experiences, they must avoid showing any actual product usage or making promotional claims. For instance:
Allowed Content:
Educational videos about cannabis culture
Discussions on the benefits of cannabis
Personal stories relating to cannabis experiences
Not Allowed Content:
Videos showing cannabis use
Product promotions or sales pitches
Tutorials on making cannabis-infused products
This strict enforcement means that many users find their content removed if it even indirectly suggests cannabis use, such as showing smoke without clear context.
But, in contrast to its stance on cannabis, TikTok has updated its policies to allow advertising for alcoholic beverages under specific conditions. As of August 2024, TikTok permits alcohol ads but requires that they target users who are 25 years or older. The rules around Alcohol ads are they must not feature individuals under the legal drinking age and promotions cannot depict excessive drinking or irresponsible behavior.