Naturopathic Remedies to Help Cope with Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis affects more than 40 million people in America. It is generally seen in older women over the age of 50 and can go unnoticed for years with no symptoms until it has advanced and a bone fracture occurs.

Treatments can help, but experts say that osteoporosis can’t be cured. There are a couple of naturopathic remedies, however, that can help one cope with osteoporosis and gradually strengthen weak bones.

What Is Osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is when the bones form weak areas and small holes that can lead to pain, fractures, and bone loss. The body naturally has the ability to replace and absorb bone tissue, however, those suffering from osteoporosis have trouble with replacement and absorption of bone tissue. Instead, when bone resorption occurs, it often occurs too quickly and when bone tissue replacement occurs, it often occurs too slowly.

The main causes of osteoporosis include:

• Aging
• Hormonal imbalances
• Steroid use
• Nutritional deficiencies
• Stress
• Long-term use of certain medications

Fortunately, there are natural treatments and foods that are highly effective in preventing and coping with osteoporosis, some of which have the ability to boost bone density.

Natural Treatments for Osteoporosis

Topical use of essential oils on the bones may be used to increase bone density. Essential oils like Krill oil are suitable for keeping our bones healthy and flexible because of the oil’s omega-3 EPA and DHA content. You can apply it topically or consume it internally.

Wintergreen essential oil has a strong and minty aroma and has been used to heal broken bones. The salicylic acid and methyl salicylate present in this essential oil are responsible for the healing capabilities of wintergreen oil.

A mix of Wintergreen, Helichrysum, and Peppermint can be used topically to help heal bones and reduce inflammation and pain. Here’s a recipe for an essential oil blend that has been effective for improving bone density.

Essential Oil Blend for Osteoporosis

• 10 drops of Wintergreen oil
• 6 drops of Helichrysum
• 4 drops of Ginger
• 3 drops of Cypress
• 2 drops of Vetiver
• 2 drops of Lemongrass
• 2 drops of Rosewood

This is enough to make one batch that will last you all day, but if you would like to make more just add double or triple the quantities listed above. Along with using this essential oil blend to heal fragile bones, try implementing these foods into your diet to help you gradually strengthen your bones. 

Osteoporosis Diet

• Sea Vegetables: These vegetables are high in essential minerals that help with bone formation and calcium. Try adding foods like wakame, agar, nori, or kombu to your diet.
• Leafy Green Vegetables: Leafy greens are full of nutrients like calcium and vitamin K that our bones need in order to stay strong.
• Alkaline Foods: Osteoporosis has been linked to an acidic internal environment, so eat plenty of fruits and vegetables in order to create a more alkaline environment in your body.
• Raw Dairy Products: Kefir, amasai, raw cheese, and yogurt contain magnesium, calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin K, all of which are important for building strong bones.
• Wild-caught Fish: Osteoporosis is related to chronic inflammation, so eating foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce inflammation.

Overall, you will want to maintain a healthy and enriching diet rich in essential minerals and vitamins while topically using healing essential oils to minimize osteoporosis side effects. Strength training can also help strengthen weak bones so try osteoporosis exercises in your workout routine as well. Always make sure you discuss any new treatments or exercises with your doctor before attempting at home.

Quick FAQs 

How much calcium can help with osteoporosis?

References

Dr. Axe. (2018). Osteoporosis Diet and 5 Natural Treatments – DrAxe.com. [online] Available at: https://draxe.com/osteoporosis-diet-5-natural-treatments/ [Accessed 29 May 2018].