Osteoporosis is a bone disease that literally means ‘porous bones.’ In this condition, your body loses the bone mass and doesn’t produce enough bone. [1]
Low bone mass or osteoporosis is one of the significant public health threats in the U.S.A.
According to a survey, more than 55% of the American population, over 50 years of age suffer from weak bones and osteoporosis. [2]
A deficiency of vitamin D, essential nutrients and minerals – calcium, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, Vitamin K, side effects of certain medications, lack of exercise, etc. may cause osteoporosis. There are no evident signs or symptoms of osteoporosis. When you have a fractured bone, you may experience disability or limited mobility, intense or mild bone pain, stooped posture, loss of height, etc. [3]
Researchers suggest that the monoterpenes in some of the essential oils are effective in preventing bone loss. Essential oils may be beneficial in inhibiting osteoporosis in humans and treat the symptoms of broken and fractured bones. [4]
This article reviews the efficacy and uses of essential oils for osteoporosis.
4 Best Essential Oils for Osteoporosis
1. Ginger Essential Oil
Ginger root is an essential spice in various cuisines all over the world. The root comes from a flowering plant belonging to the Zingiberaceae plant family.
Ginger is a home remedy for various health conditions. Ginger essential oil contains all the therapeutic properties of the spice roots.
Numerous research shows the potent anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic effects of ginger essential oil. A 2016 study conducted in The University of Kansas, U.S.A, confirms the efficacy of gingerol in reducing arthritic pains and increasing total bone mineral density in rats.
The researchers suggest that the potent phenolic components such as gingerols may treat symptoms of broken bones-pain and inflammation and rheumatoid arthritis. [5]
2. Sage Essential Oil
Sage or Salvia officinalis herb is also known as Garden Sage, True Sage, Common Sage, and Dalmatian Sage. Sage essential oil is steam distilled from the leaves of the medicinal plant.
Numerous scientific research confirms the potential therapeutic effects of sage oil monoterpenes in treating bone disorders. A 2017 study published in Phytotherapy Research journal states that sage essential oil could increase mineral density in bones. Herbal extracts from rosemary, thyme, and sage have been used as a natural remedy for osteoporosis in ancient Chinese and Ayurvedic medicinal practices. [6]
Another clinical research conducted in Switzerland in 2003 confirms the efficacy of sage oil monoterpene components in inhibiting bone resorption or bone loss in rats. Hence sage oil may be an effective natural cure for osteoporosis. [7]
3. Rosemary Essential Oil
Rosemary herb grows abundantly in the Mediterranean region. The aromatic herb was considered sacred in the ancient Greek, Hebrew, and Roman civilizations. Rosemary essential oil comes from the flowering tops of the herb. The essential oil has analgesic (pain-relieving), stimulating, and soothing properties.
Several medical research shows that the bioactive components in rosemary oil — thymol, alpha-pinene, beta-pinene, etc. can prevent bone loss in aged rats. [8]
4. Thyme Essential Oil
Thyme or thymus vulgaris is a perennial herb. Thyme essential oil has many therapeutic values. Thyme oil contains monoterpenes components that are beneficial for optimum bone health. Especially borneol, thymol, and thujanol may be useful in treating osteoporosis, bone loss, and weak bone health. [9]
How to Use Essential Oils for Osteoporosis
You may use essential oils for osteoporosis treatment in several ways — topical application and consuming with food or drink.
A topical application of essential oils may repair the affected bone, relieve osteoporosis pain, and increase bone density.
Here’s how to do it.
Combine 2-3 drops of ginger, thyme, rosemary, or sage essential oil with a tablespoon of carrier oil and massage on the affected bone area three times daily.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Essential oils are not the ultimate treatment options for osteoporosis. You need to visit a doctor for proper diagnosis and upon his/her recommendation may use these natural remedies along with conventional treatments. You should consider visiting a doctor if you experience the following: [10]
- A broken or fractured bone
- Persistent pain in the affected bone
- Stooped or hunched back
Your doctor may diagnose the condition thoroughly and find out the risk factors associated with your osteoporosis condition.
Conclusion
Osteoporosis is a common bone disorder among aged people. When you have osteoporosis, your body gradually loses bone density and doesn’t produce many bones.
Osteoporosis weakens your bones silently until you experience a broken or fractured bone. Usually the bones in the wrist, hip, spine, ankles, knees, and legs are most vulnerable to osteoporosis.
Several medical research suggests that essential oils such as thyme, sage, rosemary, ginger, eucalyptus, etc. may be an effective natural remedy for osteoporosis. The bioactive components in these aromatic oils may relieve the pain, repair fractured bones, and increase bone density.
You need to avoid the over-consumption of certain food items that may contribute to bone loss. These foods and drinks are alcohol, sugar, sweetened beverages, processed or red meat, caffeine, nicotine from smoking, etc.
Some other home remedies for osteoporosis include — herbal supplements, healthy diet, regular exercise, acupuncture, stress relieving massage, etc.
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