Magnesium supplementation, including magnesium citrate, has traditionally been used to support or treat symptoms of Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS). The rationale stems from the role of magnesium in muscle and nerve function, and anecdotal reports have suggested that magnesium can help with muscle cramps and nocturnal discomfort, symptoms that overlap with RLS. However, the scientific evidence supporting magnesium supplementation for RLS is limited and not conclusive.

A few small studies and case reports have hinted at possible benefits. For example, a small open-label study published in 1998 (Hornyak et al.) observed that magnesium supplementation might improve sleep in patients with periodic limb movements related to RLS. However, the study design lacked a placebo control, and sample sizes were small. Systematic reviews and guidelines from organizations such as the American Academy of Sleep Medicine do not recommend magnesium as a primary or strongly supported treatment, citing insufficient high-quality evidence.

In summary, while magnesium citrate is sometimes used traditionally to address RLS symptoms due to its general role in muscle relaxation, scientific validation for its effectiveness is weak. Most support is anecdotal or derived from small, methodologically limited studies, so the evidence level is rated low (2 out of 5).