Alternative Osteoporosis Treatment

Osteoporosis is marked by porous and easily broken bones. This condition can affect both genders but most cases occur in women past menopause. The bones become weak and brittle and can fracture easily due to a loss of minerals such as calcium, lowered estrogen levels and slower regeneration of new, stronger bone. Fractures, decrease in height due to fractured vertebrae, changed posture and curvature of the spine can all occur with osteoporosis. However, there are many natural treatments which can help improve bone health and relieve pain caused by the condition.

Beneficial Herbs

Alfalfa contains vitamin K which initiates bone regrowth. Take 1,000 to 2,000 mg in capsule form daily or eat a handful of fresh sprouts every day. Feverfew is an effective herbal pain reliever and anti-inflammatory. Take the freeze-dried herb in capsule form as directed on the label. Hawthorn stabilizes collagen, which is a strong flexible protein vital for strong bones. Take 250 mg three times a day. Por Huesos tea encourages bone growth. Drink 1 cup three times daily between meals. Soy isoflavone concentrate helps transport calcium from the bloodstream to the bones. Take 3,000 milligrams daily.

Do not use alfalfa is you are taking any blood thinning medications or if you are pregnant. Do not use feverfew if you are pregnant.

Herbs, like pharmaceutical agents, are tested to determine their therapeutic range, which is the smallest dose that provides any change in condition to the largest dose safe for consumption. While herbs are generally safe and non-toxic, stick to suggested amounts to avoid possible negative side effects. Taking more is not likely to produce additional benefit.

Other Suggestions

Use calcium citrate supplements. It is the form best absorbed by the body. Take at least 1,000 mg daily. Eat salads to help prevent fractures. Salad greens are rich in vitamin K, which assists bones with using protein to make collagen, which acts like a glue for bone structure. Vegetables rich in vitamin K are iceberg lettuce, broccoli, cabbage, kale, romaine lettuce and spinach. Aim for at least 1 serving per day. Avoid supplementing with vitamin A. A Swedish study of 66,651 women published in the November 1998 edition of "Annals of Internal Medicine" found that every milligram (3,000 international units) of vitamin A taken over the recommended daily allowance (RDA) increased the risk of bone fracture by 68 percent. It reduces bone density. The RDA for men is 5,000 international units and 4,000 for women.

Try to exercise regularly if approved by your doctor. Strength training and light weightlifting reduce risks of falling and improve bone density. Eggs, garlic and onions contain sulfur, which is needed for healthy bones. Avoid yeast products and soft drinks. They contain phosphorus, which competes with calcium for absorption by the body. Blueberries, cherries and cherry juice contain substances called proanthocyanidins that stabilize collagen and help keep bones intact.