Alternative Medication for Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis results in brittle, fragile bones that can break easily. It affects both sexes, but a majority of cases occur in post-menopausal women. Hormones regulate bone production, and after menopause, the amount of estrogen in a woman's body drops significantly. Certain herbs, supplements, and foods can counteract bone loss in several ways.

Herbal Treatments

Alfalfa is a rich source of vitamin K, which plays an important role in new bone growth. Take 1,000 to 2,000 milligrams daily or eat a handful of fresh sprouts daily.

Feverfew is an effective natural pain reliever and anti-inflammatory. Take capsules as directed on the product label.

Some herbs contain phytoestrogens, which act like regular estrogen in the body. Since low estrogen levels are a main trigger for osteoporosis, taking these phytoestrogens can help jump-start the bone regeneration process. Compounds in red clover slowed bone loss, according to a study by G.E. Geller. Black cohosh also contains phytoestrogens and is widely used to address estrogen deficiency in traditional medicine. Study results have been mixed.

A number of herbs contain substances that address issues associated with osteoporosis but scientific studies are lacking. Horsetail contains silicon, known to strengthen bone. Kelp is commonly used for musculoskeletal disorders and is high in minerals that are vital to bone health. Oat straw raises hormone levels that stimulate bone growth.

Supplements

Calcium is essential to bone health. The body absorbs calcium citrate most easily. This mineral is taken in divided doses, since the body can only absorb 500 milligrams at a time. Vitamin D is essential; the body needs it to properly absorb calcium. The National Osteoporosis Foundation suggests the following dosages: Adults under age 50 should take 400 to 800 IU a day; those 51 to 70 should use 800 to 1,000 IU daily. Do not exceed 1,000 milligrams without consulting a doctor; doses beyond this can be dangerous.

Ipriflavone has proved effective in treating bone loss and preventing fractured vertebrae when combined with calcium, according to the Journal of the American Medical Association. Take 600 milligrams per day.

Dietary Suggestions

Eat calcium-rich foods such as low-fat dairy and broccoli. Many cereals and orange juice have added calcium. Magnesium is also important for bone health; eat foods like avocado, bananas, cantaloupe, honeydew, lima beans, potatoes, and spinach. Foods rich in potassium include whole grains, nuts, spinach, oatmeal, and peanut butter. Vitamin D is produced by the body but is also found in fatty fish and fortified cereals and milk.

Vitamin K allows calcium to attach to the bone. After menopause, this does not happen as easily, and women should eat three servings of low-fat dairy, cauliflower, or dark, leafy greens daily. Supplementing should be done with caution and is best discussed with a doctor, especially if you are taking blood- thinning medications.

Soy isoflavones also appear to treat osteoporosis, according to the University Of Maryland Medical Center. They contain phytoestrogens that act in the same way estrogen does, including protecting against bone loss and even stopping it once it occurs. It is most beneficial to get these compounds through diet; eat products like soy milk, tofu, and soybeans. Taking supplements might not produce similar benefits. Talk to your doctor about taking soy in any form if you have a history of estrogen-related disorders like breast cancer.

Ask an Expert

It is a good idea to talk to a health-care practitioner experienced in natural medicine to design a treatment plan. If you do decide to supplement, be sure to talk to your doctor. Consult with a knowledgeable practitioner to determine appropriate dosages.