Herbal Remedies For Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a disease that involves progressive bone loss and a greater risk for fractures, or broken bones. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons says osteoporosis is a significant health problem in the United States, affecting about 28 million adults. Osteoporosis is theorized to be one of the major causes of about 1.5 million fractures every year. If you have osteoporosis, consider talking with your doctor about the risks and benefits of herbs. However, the Food and Drug Administration has not evaluated herbs as a treatment for osteoporosis, and the FDA says pregnant women should not take herbs without consulting a doctor.

Osteoporosis

According to MayoClinic.com, osteoporosis causes your bones to grow brittle and weak. Weak bones are often associated with low levels of calcium and other important minerals. If you use tobacco, have a low calcium intake, have an eating disorder, engage in sedentary living, consume too much alcohol or use corticosteroid medication for prolonged periods, you may have a greater risk of developing osteoporosis. Some of the most observable signs associated with osteoporosis include a stooped posture and a decrease in height over time.

Useful Herbal Remedies

Phyllis A. Balch, a certified nutritional consultant and author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," says women of northern European or Asian ancestry are more likely to develop osteoporosis than others. There are many herbal remedies that may be useful in treating osteoporosis, including alfalfa, barley grass, black cohosh, boneset, dandelion root, nettle, parsley, poke root, rose hips, yucca, feverfew, oat straw, red clover, sage, rosemary and thyme. Some of these herbs are said to help build strong bones; others prevent bone breakdown.

A Commonly Used Herb

Boneset is a commonly used herb in the treatment and prevention of osteoporosis. Balch says boneset helps build healthy bone mass and has decongestant, laxative, anti-inflammatory and diuretic action. This herb purportedly also loosens phlegm, decreases fever, increases sweating and helps calm your body. Boneset has been used to treat numerous health conditions, including osteoporosis, colds, flu, bronchitis and aches and pains. The flowers, petals and leaves of the boneset plant are used in herbal preparations.

Considerations

In order to prevent osteoporosis, consider eating foods that are high in calcium and vitamin D. Good sources of bioavailable calcium -- calcium that is easily absorbed by your body -- include broccoli, chestnuts, dark green leafy vegetables, hazelnuts, salmon, turnip greens and wheat germ. Consider also avoiding drinks containing phosphate, such as alcohol and soft drinks. Other substances to avoid include tobacco, sugar, excess salt and products containing yeast. Regular weight-bearing exercise is also important for preventing osteoporosis.