mustard for rls??

[LanaCSR]

I just heard about someone who is having success with putting mustard on their legs at night time topically to help their RLS. They literally keep packets of mustard next to their bed to use each night. Has anyone heard of this or had any success with using mustard topically to control their RLS? It sounds to me like another bar of soap remedy...lol

[Madlegs1]

Certainly would fulfill the distraction theory! 😁

[LanaCSR in reply to Madlegs1]

😂

[Hidden]

Hot news indeed. I guess it might be acting as a counter-irritant.

What kind is it, French, English or wholegrain?

[LanaCSR in reply to Hidden]

I'm not sure what kind, but I would imagine here in the states if they are using the free packets you get from restaurants, it's probably French.

[Hidden in reply to LanaCSR]

That would be a lot of packets.

But seriously, I have just read that there are various essential oils that yu can use as a massage rub or cold compress that would be less sticky than mustard.#

But as always, if it works, do it.

[LanaCSR in reply to Hidden]

To each his own...hahaha!

[restlessstoz in reply to Hidden]

I think it would work just like using Deep Heat or some such cream. Confusing the brain by adding another thing for it to process. I've had some success with Deep Heat but only if the attack isn't too bad. If I'm in the car (not driving, but a passenger so not able to just stop and get out to walk), I have used DH to good effect. The other passengers said they didn't mind the smell! I'm not sure what they'd have said if I produced mustard and said 'd'you mind if I rub mustard on my legs?' Maybe offered some ham to go with it.

[Hidden in reply to restlessstoz]

I'm vegetarian. It would have to be tofu for me.

Yeh, Deep Heat is a "counter irritant". It works because it stimulates fast nerves and signals in fast nerves beat signals from slow nerves to the spine and switch off the slow signals, like closing a gate.

It's the same as when you bang yourself and you rub it to ease the pain. The rub signals go along fast nerves and the pain signals go along slow nerves.

Not as smelly as Deep Heat or as sticky as mustard, but you can't really do it when you're driving.

[restlessstoz in reply to Hidden]

Manerva, you really do know everything don't you! I am amazed how much knowledge is stored in the heads of the people here on the forum. I love information and store it like a starving squirrel so thank you for your gems.