Although osteoporosis can affect both men and women, it is more prevalent in women, especially women who have gone through menopause and have lower levels of bone protecting estrogen in their bodies. HRT, once considered the best option for protecting against bone loss in older women, has been found to be dangerous and not effect for this use. One of the best strategies for maintaining healthy bones is regular weight bearing exercises, enough sunlight exposure to product adequate levels of Vitamin D, (15- 20 minutes daily) and a diet naturally high in calcium and high quality protein.

Herbs Used for Osteoporosis

Alfalfa * Dandelion * Horsetail * Nettle * Red Clover * White Willow *

Alfalfa For: bone loss
Profile	Clinical studies in Japan have found that vitamin K, found in alfalfa and in green leafy vegetables such as kale and spinach, can partially prevent bone loss caused by estrogen deficiency. The vitamin interacts with vitamin D to increase the formation of new bone. The combination is not sufficient, however, to completely compensate for osteoporosis caused by estrogen-depleting medications Phyllis A. Balch, Prescription for Herbal Healing (2002)

Horsetail For: Osteoporosis
Profile	Some French researchers assert that silicon, contained in horsetail, could assist in preventing osteoporosis and in speeding the healing of fractures. Take as a tea, once or twice a day Susun Weed, New Menopausal Years, The Wise Woman Way (2002)

Parsley For: Arthritis, Bone Health
Profile	Parsley has a longstanding folklore reputation for the treatment of rheumatism, arthritis and sciatica. It's high concentration of boron and fluoride might help against bone thinning and osteoporosis. James Duke, The Green Pharmacy Herbal Handbook (2000)

Stinging Nettle For: Osteoporosis
Profile	Taking mineral rich herbs in capsule or tincture form won't do much for your bones. One cup of nettle tincture contains the same amount of calcium - 300 mg - as one cup of nettle infusion. Many women drink two or more cups of herbal tea a day, but no one drinks a cup of tincture! The boron in nettles helps protect bones. Nettle provide a good green source of calcium along with protein Susun Weed, New Menopausal Years, The Wise Woman Way (2002)

Osteoporosis Information

• Menopause :
  Herbs containing or acting like estrogen may provide some of the benefits of estrogen in relieving menopausal symptoms.
• Pregnancy :
  The herbs used for pregnancy are the same herbs that have been used by midwives for centuries.
• PMS :
  The effects of PMS range from mild to devastating an include edema,depression, tension, cramps, cravings, and more.
• Women's Tonics :
  A healthy, functioning liver is an important part of hormone production and hormonal balance is an important factor in PMS, menopause, regulating menses, and maintaining a healthy libido.
• Dysmenorrhea :
  A painful period can range from a dull ache to a violent cramp. When we are in a fragile emotional state, menstrual pain can be even more severe.
• Menorrhagia :
  Heavy menstrual bleeding, clotting or irregular bleeding are come under the heading of menorrhagia.
• Amenorrhea :
  Herbs that bring on menstrual flow when there is delayed menstruation --for whatever reason--are known as emmenagogues.
• Candida/Yeast Infection :
  Women may be more susceptible to vaginal yeast infections if they are pregnant or have diabetes. Candidiasis is an infection caused by species of Candida fungi, especially Candida albicans.
• Childbirth :
  These herbs can be used in the last few days of pregnancy to help open the womb and ensure an easier childbirth.