As we age, a decline in bone-protecting hormones can cause weak bones.
As a result, postmenopausal women and older men are most likely to get this condition.
Verywell / Ellen Lindner
Often there are nosymptoms.
Verywell / Ellen Lindner
That is why it is referred to as a silent disease.
Osteoporosis is a condition not often discovered until a fracture or vertebrae collapse.
Whilemedicationscan treat osteoporosis, herbs have become a popular remedy for those suffering from this condition.
This article examines the research behind thesenatural treatmentsand whether they can improve bone loss and osteoporosis.
Who Is at Risk for Osteoporosis?
About 54 million people are suffering from osteoporosis and low bone mass, making them susceptible to this condition.
This condition occurs at any age, but adults 50 and older are most at risk.
Natural Herbs for Osteoporosis Treatment
There are many natural herbs recommended for osteoporosis.
Some herbs, including the ones listed in this article, may interfere with some medicines.
A review of 36 clinical trials found red sage treated and improved more than 80% of osteoporosis cases.
However, most research consisted of only small-sized, short-term studies.
Salvianolic acid, tanshinones, and magnesium lithospermate B are compounds in red sage that may improve bone health.
Salvianolic acids have antioxidant properties that prevent inflammation andfree radical productionassociated with the breakdown of bone.
These compounds can also help bone growth.
Red sage is also a good source of vitamin K, which is needed for healthy bones.
Red sage should be used for only a short period due to the safety concerns with long-term use.
Red Clover
Red clover (Trifolium pratense) is a perennial herb belonging to the legume family.
Research is mixed when it comes to red clover and osteoporosis.
It is a medicinal herb that dates back to ancient Rome and Greece.
Horsetail has been used to treat wounds, tuberculosis, and kidney issues.
Quercetin, oleanolic acid, and ursolic acid are antioxidants found in horsetail.
These compounds may improve calcium levels and increase bone growth.
Horsetail also contains the compound silica.Supplementsmade from silica have been linked to improved bone mineral density and strength.
Although some benefits have been associated with horsetail, it still may not be the best option for you.
Getting enough calcium may be more beneficial to bone health.
Warnings for Horsetail Consumption
Long-term use of horsetail is not advised.
This herb can lower thiamin (B1) levels and may cause a deficiency in this vitamin.
This small, low-growing shrub is a popular spice to use in cooking.
It also is a medicinal plant that dates back to ancient times.
Thyme has been used to enhance immune function and treat respiratory, nerve, and heart conditions.
One study examined how taking 1,000 milligrams of thyme daily for six months would affect 40 postmenopausal women.
Researchers found that regular consumption of thyme improved bone mineral density better than a calcium/vitamin D3 supplement.
Thyme may be most effective when used with sage and rosemary.
Bone mineral density levels were higher with this combination than with thyme alone.
These nutrients can improve bone health.
The study evaluated thyme as a fresh and dried herb.
Thyme is considered safe when used in small amounts.Large doses of this herb have been associated with side effects.
Its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties have made it important to herbal medicine for the past 4,000 years.
Turmeric has been used to treat menstrual symptoms, arthritis, anddigestive issues.
Curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, may help with low bone density.
Turmeric comes as a dried powder that can be used in cooking.
It is also available in a tincture, liquid, or capsule form.
It has also been shown to cause rare cases of liver injury.
Longer studies need to confirm the overall safety and effectiveness of turmeric and curcumin for treating osteoporosis.
Caution should be taken when trying this herb.
Soy Isoflavones
Soy isoflavonesare compounds found primarily in bean plants like soybeans.
With the loss of estrogen at menopause, the risk of bone loss in females is increased.
Side effects of soy can include digestive symptoms, includingconstipationanddiarrhea.
Research continues into the benefits of soy isoflavones, as well as any potential risks.
Summary
Herbal remedies have been seen as a natural alternative to osteoporosis medications.
These plants contain bone-strengthening compounds that may improve bone growth.
There is still a lot we dont know about these herbs and their effects on osteoporosis.
Be sure to talk with your doctor before adding any supplements to your care routine.
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