Osteoporosis occurs when the bone structure in the human body is compromised. According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, it occurs when the integrity of the bones weakens as a result of the body producing too much bone, too little bone, or both.
Methods to treat osteoporosis involve a number of medically approved drugs known as bisphosphonates. Bisphosphonates are typically made available in the form of Fosamax (alendronate), Actonel (risedronate), or Boniva (ibandronate).
But as modern science uncovers new medicinal possibilities, researchers are testing the validity of using CBD oil for osteoporosis cases. The theory states that, as a natural remedy, CBD oil can reinforce the structural integrity of weakened bones to promote healthy active living.
CBD and Bone Density
Let’s look at some facts about osteoporosis. Research shows that over 200 million people suffer from weakened or deficient bone structure, and many of those people are, not surprisingly, elderly people. But concerns about bone density can begin as early as one’s 40s or 50s.
In fact, the data shows 1 out of 3 women over the age of 50 are prone to osteoporosis. Approximately 1 in 5 men in the same age group will struggle with weakened bone structure as well.
However, the rate of mortality caused by osteoporosis is significantly higher in men than in women. That means that, while more women may be diagnosed with osteoporosis symptoms, the condition is, often, fatal for men.
CBD and Bone Healing
CBD has been known to improve the quality of life for seniors, both male and female. Those insights, combined with ongoing research into the effects of CBD and bone healing, suggest more senior citizens can benefit from CBD-infused products.
The studies show that CBD can accelerate the body’s ability to heal and enhance the strength of broken or fractured bones. Scientists prescribed 5mg of CBD oil to a lab rat that was suffering from alveolar bone loss. At the end of the 30 day trial period, the tests showed decreased alveolar bone loss in the rat and the doctors also confirmed decreased neutrophil migration in the gingival tissues, a medical term describing the body’s gums.
Can CBD Oil Help Osteoporosis
Research also suggests that CBD’s ability to enhance the body’s endocannabinoid system can also enhance the strength of bones in the body. The endocannabinoid system describes how the body’s own neurotransmitters affect feelings of both physical and mental pain or discomfort. Two of the body’s receptors are known as CB1 and CB2, which can impact the bone metabolism in the body.
The endocannabinoid system can be weakened if the body fails to naturally produce enough endocannabinoids. But the natural compounds in CBD oil are virtually identical to the body’s natural endocannabinoids. That means, in the event that the system is compromised, healthy doses of CBD oil can increase the volume of endocannabinoids in the body, which can strengthen bones and accelerate the healing of bone fractures.
When substituting for endocannabinoids, CBD has the ability to block or suppress receptors in the body that trigger physical pain or cause mental imbalances. The American Society for Bone and Mineral Research indicates that, in one particular trial, CBD blocked the GRP55 receptor, which dramatically reduced the number of cells that degrade bone integrity.
Is CBD Good for Osteoporosis
Based on the preliminary research in numerous medical journals, there is plenty of evidence suggesting CBD is a healthy treatment for osteoporosis. Human trials are still necessary to verify the effects of CBD oil for osteoporosis, but there is precedent for successful human clinical trials involving CBD and other medical challenges.
CBD has been known to improve the effects of high blood pressure and neuropathy in people coping with underlying symptoms of those conditions. Additionally, CBD has improved the mental health and wellbeing of people living with illnesses. Most prominently, CBD has altered and improved the livelihoods of those living with anxiety or depression.
Given the physical pain and debilitating effects of compromised bone integrity, it’s not unlikely that osteoporosis patients succumb to mental disorders like anxiety or depression. There’s room to believe that CBD oil can improve both the physical and mental livelihoods of people coping with damaged or weakened bone structure.
CBD Dose for Osteoporosis
An article with the Harvard Medical School specifically states that scientists have yet to determine the most effective therapeutic dose of CBD for any particular medical condition, including osteoporosis. This is, in large part, due to the fact that there are still so many unknowns about CBD oil. The medical community agrees, in principle, that CBD does provide therapeutic benefits for patients. But there is no formal agreement on the ideal dosage.
However, patients that have been prescribed CBD oil consult with their primary doctors about how to calculate an optimal amount of oil for treatment. Doses have ranged from as low as 5mg per day to over 100mg per day. The body mass and overall health of the patient plays a large role in determining how large a dose is recommended by physicians.
If you’re considering taking CBD oil for osteoporosis or for any underlying condition, speak with your doctor about your intentions and ask for advice. Many doctors are experienced in these conversations and, given he or she should be well aware of your medical history and overall health, you should come to a rational recommendation on an optimal CBD dosage.
Final Thoughts
Osteoporosis is a very painful and difficult condition to live with every day. Anything that can enhance bone strength and bone density is worth considering to alleviate the worst symptoms associated with that pain.
CBD oil is a natural remedy that has become widely associated with the health and wellness industry. It’s now available in the form of oils, lotions, and even the occasional edible to provide as smooth and simple of a dose as possible. The ability for CBD to suppress receptors that trigger pain in the body can drastically improve the overall quality of life for people who choose to take regular doses.
Do consult with your doctor if you intend to take CBD oil. Make sure there are no underlying conditions in your medical history that could compromise your health and wellbeing. If given the all-clear, you may find that using CBD oil for osteoporosis results in a much healthier and happier livelihood from that point onward.