Category: Low Bone Density

May 3, 2025

Ayurvedic Treatment for Low Bone Density – Symptoms, Causes , Risk Factors & Herbal Remedies

Abstract

Low bone density, often referred to as osteoporosis in advanced cases. It is a condition where bones become weaker and more susceptible to fractures due to a reduction in bone mineral content. This condition typically develops without noticeable symptoms in its early stages, making it difficult to detect without medical testing. Several factors contribute to low bone density, such as aging, hormonal imbalances (especially after menopause), inadequate nutrition (low calcium or vitamin D intake), lack of physical activity, and certain medical conditions or medications. In this article we will discuss this in more and we will discuss its Ayurvedic overview and its management.

Low Bone Density

Introduction

Low bone density is a condition in which bones become less dense, weakening their structure and increasing the likelihood of fractures. It is typically identified through bone density tests. The condition is commonly categorized into two types: osteopenia and osteoporosis. Osteopenia is a less severe form of bone loss, while osteoporosis represents a more advanced stage, leading to significantly higher fracture risk. Osteoporosis is a widespread global health concern, particularly among the elderly, marked by a notable decrease in bone mass that results in fragile bones. In contrast, osteopenia refers to a condition where bone density is reduced but not to a level that severely compromises bone strength. Both conditions are more common with age, and women, especially those post-menopause, face a higher risk due to hormonal changes that impact bone health.

Causes

Low bone density can arise from various factors, which can be grouped into genetic, lifestyle, hormonal, and medical causes –

  • Age – As individuals age, the process of bone renewal slows down, leading to a gradual decrease in bone density. This becomes especially noticeable after the age of 30, as bones lose mass over time.
  • Hormonal Changes in Women – Women are more likely to develop low bone density due to lower peak bone density and accelerated loss after menopause.
  • Natural Lower Bone Density – Some individuals naturally have lower bone density without experiencing bone loss.
  • Peak Bone Density – Bone mass starts to decrease after the age of 30. Thicker bones at age 30 may delay low bone density or osteoporosis.
  • Eating Disorders / Metabolic Issues – These issues can hinder nutrient absorption, leading to low bone density.
  • Chemotherapy or Some Other Medications – Medications like steroids can weaken bones.
  • Radiation Exposure – Damages bone health.

 

Other Risk Factors

  • Family history
  • Thin body type
  • Low physical activity
  • Smoking
  • Alcohol

Symptoms

There are no as such symptoms of Low bone density, some of the Commonly seen sign and symptoms are –

Common Symptoms of Low Bone Density

  1. Frequent fractures
  2. Fractures from light impact
  3. Chronic back discomfort
  4. Height reduction
  5. Hunched posture
  6. Reduced movement
  7. Joint discomfort
  8. Weak grip strength
  9. Fatigue
  10. Difficulty in standing upright
  11. Decreased balance

Diagnosis

1. DEXA Scan (Bone Density Test)

A Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) scan is the most common test used to assess bone density. This painless test measures the mineral content of bones, usually in the spine, hip, or wrist, and helps determine if the bones are weak or at risk for fractures.

2. X-Rays

X-rays may be employed to identify any existing fractures or changes in bone structure, particularly in the spine. However, X-rays are not effective for detecting early bone density loss.

3. Blood Tests

Blood work can help measure levels of calcium, vitamin D, and other factors that influence bone health. Abnormal results, such as low vitamin D or calcium deficiencies, can point to possible issues affecting bone density.

4. Physical Exam

A physical examination may be performed to evaluate posture, balance, and any physical signs of bone weakness or fractures. Doctors may also measure height to detect any reduction in stature due to spinal compression.

5. CT Scan (Quantitative CT Imaging)

In certain cases, a quantitative CT scan may be used to get detailed imaging of the bones. While not a routine procedure, it can offer more specific insights into bone density when necessary.

Treatment

Approaches to Treating Low Bone Density

  1. Medications
    • Bisphosphonates
    • Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators (SERMs)
    • Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
  2. Supplements
    • Calcium
    • Vitamin D
  3. Lifestyle Modifications
    • Physical Activity
    • Nutritional Adjustments
    • Smoking Cessation
    • Limit Alcohol

Ayurvedic Overview

Low bone density is a condition that leads to increased bone porosity. This condition in ayurveda can be correlated with Asthisoushirya (Weakening of bones). It is not classified as a distinct disease on its own in ayurvedic texts. It is described as a symptom of Majja kshaya. It can be understood as a condition where vitiated vata becomes localized in the Asthi dhatu (Bone tissue), leading to Asthigata Vata, which eventually results in Asthi kshaya (Bone loss). However, it’s important to note that not every instance of Asthigata vata progresses to osteoporosis. Chronic conditions that exhibit clear stages of Asthisaraheenata (Bone depletion) can eventually lead to Asthusushirata (Bone fragility or porosity).

Causes (Nidana)

In general, Vatavyadhi Nidana (causes of Vata disorders) can be considered relevant here, although specific Nidana for Asthigata Vata (Vata in bones) is not explicitly mentioned. When Vata becomes deranged, it settles in the Asthi (bones), leading to Asthi Kshaya (bone loss). Since the Asthi dhatu (bone tissue) is nourished by nutrients circulating through its own channels, and both the Asthi and Asthi Vaha srotas (bone and bone-carrying channels) share similar qualities, factors that disturb the Srotas also disturb the dhatu. Additionally, Asthi and Majja (bone marrow) are interconnected, as Charaka mentions a cooperative relationship between Dhatus, known as “Paraspara Upasamsthabdha Dhatu Sneha Parampara” (mutual nourishment of tissues through a continuous flow of fat). Hence, factors that affect the Asthi Vaha and Majja Vaha srotas contribute to Asthi Kshaya (bone loss).The causes (Nidanas) for Vatavyadhi (Vata disorders) and vata prakopa (Vata aggravation) can be classified as follow –

  1. Dietary factors (Aharaja)
  2. Lifestyle factors (Viharaj)
  3. Mental stress (Mansika)
  4. Trauma (Abhigataja)
  5. Other contributing factors (Anyat nidana)

Aharaj (dietary Factors)

Consuming food that is low in nutritional value, or not taking in enough food (Alpabhojana), can contribute to imbalances. Foods that specifically aggravate Vata (Vatala Ahara) also play a significant role. Overconsumption of foods and drinks that are predominantly Tikta, Katu, and Kashaya in taste, and have the qualities of Rooksha (dry), Laghu (light), and Sita (cold), can intensify Vata dosha. Additionally, prolonged consumption of Virudha Ahara (incompatible food combinations) and Mamsala Ahara (heavy, meat-based foods) disturb the Majja Vaha Srotas (bone marrow channels) and Manovaha Srotas (fat channels), which ultimately have a negative impact on the Asthi dhatu (bone tissue).

Viharaj (Lifestyle factors)

Viharaja (lifestyle factors) that contribute to imbalances include-

  • Excessive exercise (Vyayama) – Overexertion during physical activities can strain the body.
  • Overindulgence in sexual activity (Vyavaya) – Engaging in sexual intercourse excessively can weaken the body.
  • Staying awake at night (Prajagara) – Sleep deprivation or staying awake during nighttime hours disrupts bodily functions.
  • Improper regimen during treatment (Apathya regimen) – Failing to follow appropriate guidelines while undergoing treatment.
  • Excessive blood loss – Losing too much blood, either through injury or medical conditions, can harm the body’s vitality.
  • Suppression of natural urges (Vegadharana) – Holding back natural bodily functions such as urination, defecation, or sneezing can cause harm.
  • Continuous physical stress –Repetitive activities like long journeys, uncomfortable postures while traveling, walking long distances, wrestling with someone stronger, or carrying heavy loads can irritate the body tissues.
  • Lack of exercise, obesity, and daytime sleeping – Insufficient physical activity, excess body weight, and sleeping during the day are factors that disrupt the Medovaha Srotas (fat channels), leading to various health issues.

Symptoms (Roopa)

Manifestations of Asthigatavata (Vata in bones) include the following symptoms

Ayurvedic Symptoms Related to Low Bone Density

  1. Asthiparvanam Bheda – Sharp, breaking pain around bony joints, such as the interphalangeal joints, wrists, cervical spine, lumbar spine, and sacral joints.
  2. Sandhisoola – Pain in the joints, often occurring in various parts of the body.
  3. Mamsakshaya – Muscle wasting or loss of muscle mass.
  4. Balakshaya – Weakness or loss of physical strength.
  5. Asthi Bhagna – Increased susceptibility to bone fractures.

According to Bhela Samhita, when Vata becomes aggravated in the Asthi (bones) and Majja (bone marrow), it leads to a variety of disorders, including –

Complications Related to Bone Weakness and Vata Disorders

  • Fractures of bones due to weakened bone structure.
  • Shivering and wasting of the body.
  • Epilepsy or convulsions.
  • Lockjaw, where the jaw becomes stiff and immobile.
  • Lameness in one or both hands or legs.
  • Joint dislocation due to weakened joints.
  • Other Vata disorders affect various parts of the body.

Treatment

Line of treatment for Low bone density in Ayurveda is –

Panchkarma therapies

  • Sneha Basti (Enema with Ghee)
  • Ksheer Basti (Enema with milk)
  • Abhyanga (Massage with herbal oils)
  • Virechana (Therapeutic Purgation)

Single Drugs used

  • Ashwagandha
  • Vacha
  • Dadima
  • Madhuyashti
  • Vidarikanda
  • Parushak
  • Padam Bijak
  • Guggul

Medicines Used

  • Lakshadi Guggulu
  • Trayodashang Guggulu
  • Yograj Guggulu
  • Praval Pishti
  • Mukta Shuktibhasma
  • Kukkutandatvak Bhasma
  • Kapardika Bhasma
  • Trikatu Churna
  • Panchkol Churna
  • Pippalyadi Churna
  • Ardraka Ghrita

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Herbal Remedies for Low bone density by Planet Ayurveda

Planet Ayurveda is a GMP certified ayurvedic company. They provide a wide range of natural, herbal formulations to support health and manage chronic disease. Planet Ayurveda’s Formulations are 100% pure, natural, chemical free and safe to use. All their formulations are prepared under the supervision of MD (Ayurveda) scholars. Their products focus on holistic care, addressing the root cause of ailments through personalised treatment, and lifestyle modification.

Ayurvedic Supplements for Bone Health

1.Coral Calcium Complex

This capsule is a pure extract of Praval Pishti (Coral), Akik Pishti (Agate), Mukta Pishti (Pearl), Guduchi (Giloy Satva) etc. Coral Calcium Complex can help provide additional calcium, which is crucial for maintaining bone strength.

Dosage: 1 capsule two times a day, with warm water after a meal

2. Lakshadi Guggul

This tablet is a standardized pure extract of Laksha (Laccifer Lacca), Asthisamharaka (Cissus Quadrangularis), Arjuna (Terminalia Arjuna), Ashwagandha (Withania Somnifera), Nagbala (Grewia Populifolia) etc. These herbs help to strengthen bones and enhance calcium absorption, supporting overall joint health.

Dosage: 2 tablets two times a day with lukewarm water after a meal

3. Osteoplan Capsule

This capsule is a standardized pure extract of Ashwagandha (Withania Somnifera), Shatavari (Asparagus Racemosus), Hadjod (Cissus Quadrangularis), Arjuna (Terminalia Arjuna). These capsules help revitalize osteocytes, offer joint lubrication, and meet calcium requirements. They help alleviate joint pain, back pain, neck pain, ankle discomfort, and swelling.

Dosage: 1 capsule two times a day with warm water after a meal

4. Bone Support Capsule

This capsule contains standardized pure extracts of Shudh Laksha (Laccifer Lacca), Shuanjana Beej (Moringa Oleifera), Hadjod (Cissus Quadrangularis), Arjun (Terminalia Arjuna), Praval Pishti (Corallium Rubrum) etc. These herbs enhance calcium absorption, promote joint flexibility, and support overall bone health. They help maintain bone density, reduce fracture risk, and improve mobility.

Dosage: 1 capsule two times a day with warm water after a meal

Conclusion

Low bone density is a condition that affects bone health, and it’s important to approach its treatment in a well-rounded way. Early diagnosis, prevention, and timely treatment are key to managing it. Ayurveda offers a natural method for preventing low bone density by looking at the whole person, including factors like body type, strength, digestion, and lifestyle. Ayurvedic remedies can be used individually or together, based on the person’s specific needs, to help prevent the disease.

 

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July 1, 2023

Pigmented Villonodular Synovitis – Symptoms, Causes and Ayurvedic Treatment

Abstract

This curious condition of uncertain nature can be best characterized as a proliferative lesion of joints and tendon sheaths, marked by hemosiderin deposition within villous overgrowths of synovium. The synovial overgrowth may be sufficient to induce tumor-like masses which project into the joint or tendon sheath spaces. Indeed, as will be seen, one view holds that this lesion is basically neoplastic. It occurs as a localized process in tendon sheaths, but in joints the entire synovial lining is usually involved, particularly in the knee and less often the hip. Occasionally, lesions are found in periarticular tissues, presumably arising within sub-synovial connective tissue. Females tend to be affected slightly more often than males. Frequently, it leads to effusions into the joint spaces or tendon sheaths, accompanied by pain, swelling, and sometimes locking of the joint. Only the knee is involved in 80% of patients. It occurs usually in adults between 20-50 years of age.  Today we will read about pigmented villonodular synovitis in brief in this article.

Introduction

Pigmented villonodular synovitis is a progressive condition in which proliferative lesions of joints and tendon sheaths are caused due to overgrowth of synovium. The mass is non cancerous and does not metastasize to other body parts. Grossly, the lesion in tendon sheaths takes the form of a small, ovoid swelling, rarely greater than 3 cm in diameter which on transection is usually golden-yellow to red-brown, depending on the amount of contained lipid and hemosiderin. In joint spaces, more or less of the entire synovial lining is transformed into a tangled mat by numerous sessile or villous projections. Sometimes discrete, yellow-brown nodules having the appearance of neoplasms develop either within the thickened synovial membrane or as pedunculated lesions

Cause

  • The exact cause is unknown. It can be caused by CSF1 gene over-expression.
  • Genetic mutations of chromosome 1p13 and rearrangement of 5q33 chromosomal.
  • Associated conditions like giant cell tumors of tendon sheath.

Pathogenesis

The pathogenesis of this lesion is completely obscure. It has been viewed variously as:-

  1. A neoplastic process
  2. As inflammatory in origin, although no specific agents been isolated
  3. As a localized disturbance of lipid metabolism leading to accumulation of lipids within phagocytic cells with secondary traumatic changes
  4. As an obscure overgrowth of synovial and peri synovial cells.

The fact that the lesion frequently recurs following incomplete excision has been taken as evidence for a neoplastic origin, but such behavior does not rule out other possible origins. We must leave it that this disabling but not life threatening condition is still a complete enigma.

Symptoms of Pigmented Villonodular Synovitis

Symptoms

  • Swelling and pain in joints which are affected
  • Locking of the joint
  • Stiffness in joints

Diagnosis

  • Physical examination:- Inspection of joints to check  joint effusion, erythema, tenderness and motion of affected joint.
  • X-ray:- It may show periarticular mass, soft tissue swelling and cystic erosion of joints.
  • Magnetic resonance imaging:-  It shows excellent pictures of delineation of both extra-articular and intra-articular disease.

Treatment

  • Medical:- Use of CSF-1 receptor antagonist
  • Surgery:- Partial synovectomy/complete synovectomy is done.

Ayurvedic overview

In ayurveda, pigmented villonodular synovitis’s symptoms nearly resemble Kroshtukasheersha which is described in sushruta samhita nidansthana vatavyadhi chapter shloka 76. In this disease mainly vata and rakta are involved.

वातशोणितज: शोफो जानुमध्ये महारुज:। 

शिर:क्रोष्टुकपूर्वं तु स्थूल: क्रोष्टुकमूर्धवत ।।  (सु. सं .नि .1/76)  

According to the above shloka:- In knee joint vikriti (imbalance) of vaat and rakta develop severe pain and swelling which is known as Kroshtukasheersha.

Vata dosha gets aggravated with above mentioned factors which lead to occupied vacant channels. On filling the vacant spaces, the aggravated vata develops many diseases like it may be limited to a particular area or affecting the whole body that is vatavyadhi.

Treatment

  1. Raktamokshana (blood letting therapy):- In this therapy impure blood is expelled out from the body by using horns, leech, multiple pricking, gourds etc.
  2. Purgation:- This therapy is done by herbs in which toxins are expelled out from the body.
  3. Fasting therapy:- It brings lightness in the body.
  4. Raktashoshan (blood purification)

There are various herbs which purifies the blood including

  • Neem:- This is bitter and astringent in taste. It is always kapha and pitta but aggravates vata. It is light and cold in effect. Due to these properties it purifies the blood and prevents skin from acne, pimples, allergies, etc. It reduces the toxin level in the body.
  • Turmeric:- It contains bitter and pungent properties. It is light, dry and hot in effect. It is helpful in blood formation along with blood purification.
  • Manjishtha:- It is bitter and astringent and sweet in taste. It is heavy, dry and hot in effect but it is a pacifier of kapha and pitta. It helps to gain lusture and glow to the skin and aids to remove pimples, freckles and discoloration. It also promotes the healing of skin tissues damaged by injury or infection.
  • Daruharidra:- It is bitter and astringent, light, dry and hot in effect. It reduces inflammation and pain. It is a wound healer.

Herbal remedies for pigmented villonodular synovitis by planet ayurveda

Planet ayurveda provides various ayurvedic medicines for different kinds of diseases. They made various types of formulation by following all the principles of ayurveda in ancient textbooks. These ayurvedic medicines are GMP certified and are safe for the human body. All the formulations are made from pure herbs which are highly effective in the human body and free from harmful chemicals, preservatives, yeast or additives. Planet ayurveda provide herbal remedies for pigmented villonodular synovitis:-

  1. BOSWELLIA+CURCUMIN
  2. JOINT AID PLUS
  3. LAKSHADI GUGGUL
  4. KANCHNAAR GUGGUL
  5. KAMDUDHA RAS (MOTI YUKT)

Herbal Remedies for Pigmented Villonodular Synovitis

Ayurvedic Management of Pigmented Villonodular Synovitis

Product Description

1. Boswellia+curcumin

It is a poly herbal capsule made from shallaki (Boswellia serrata) and haridra (curcuma longa). Boswellia have anti-inflammatory features which stop the cytokines secretion and reduce inflammation or swelling. Curcuma longa has an antioxidant property which protects brain neurons and reduces the wrinkles on skin. It purifies the blood and helps in blood formation in the body. It also applies on cuts and bruises because it is a natural antibiotic. It prevents colon and skin tumors. It is known as antibacterial, anti-allergic, carminative and diuretic medicine. It is an effective remedy for sprains, wounds and inflamed joints.

DOSE:-2 capsule twice daily, after meals with plain water.

2. Joint aid plus

It is a polyherbal capsule formed from nirgundi (vitex negundo), shallaki (boswellia serrata), guggul (commiphora mukul), etc. It is bitter in taste but hot in effect. It has qualities to pacify all three doshas in the body (vata, pitta and kapha). It is light, dry, sharp and unctuous. It contains calcium, magnesium, iron and silicon dioxide. It is a very potent medicine for various types of joint problems such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteo arthritis and gout. It helps in reducing pain, swelling and tenderness of the inflamed joints. It has anti-hypercholesterolemic properties. It lowers serum triglycerides and cholesterol levels. It is an antioxidant and immune-modulator. It prevents all types of weakness and increases one’s strength and stamina. It induces sound sleep.

DOSE:- 1 Capsule twice daily

3. Lakshadi guggul

It is a herbal tablet made from laksha (laccifer lacca), arjuna (terminalia arjuna), ashwagandha (withania somnifera), etc. It is bitter and astringent in taste. It is dry, cold and light in effect. It is also a pacifier of kapha and pitta. It contains calcium, magnesium, aluminium etc. it is healer of wounds, antibacterial, antifungal and antipyretic. It is beneficial for heart diseases. It helps in excessive palpitation due to anxiety. It helps bones to regain strength after fractures. It contains anti-anginal properties. It is anti inflammatory as well anti-lipemic.

DOSE:– 2 tablets twice with lukewarm water

4. Kanchanaar guggul

It is a herbal tablet which is formed from kanchanar bark (bauhinia variegata), amalaki (emblica offinalis), haritaki (terminalia chebula), etc. It is bitter and astringent in taste but hot in effect. It has a strong antioxidant which reduces toxins from the body. It contains magnesium, calcium, vitamin B, iron, vitamin C, proteins and dietary fibre. It is effective in relieving pain. It reduces swelling and stiffness of joints. It helps in purification of blood and regulates the level of cholesterol. It improves the menstrual cycle in females.

DOSE:- 2 tablets twice daily with lukewarm water

5. Kamdudha ras (Moti yukt)

It is a classical ayurvedic pills made from giloy satva (tinospora cordifolia), mukta shukti bhasma (pearl oyster), shuddha gairik (red oxide of iron), etc. It pacifies all the three doshas. It is cold in effect. It acts as an anti inflammatory, antipyretic, anti arthritic, a blood purifier, antacid, antiemetic, etc. It decreases the heat level in the body and balances the production of acid in the stomach and decreases the inflammation of the organs. It is helpful in nausea, vomiting, and improving appetite. It inhibits gastric ulcers. It helps in treating white discharge from vagina in females. It is a rejuvenator and a restorative tonic.

DOSE:- 2 Pills twice daily

Contact Planet Ayurveda Support Team to provide you the costing / ordering and delivery information at – costing.planetayurveda@gmail.com or Call at 0172-521-4030 (India), +91-172-521-4030 (Outside India) or Whatsapp at (+91) 9915-593-604

Conclusion

Pigmented villonodular synovitis is a progressive condition in which proliferative lesions of joints and tendon sheaths are caused due to overgrowth of synovium. In ayurveda it is caused by vitiation of  vata and rakta. In ayurveda we can manage this condition by various methods like blood purification by leech, horns etc. and by herbs like curcuma longa, neem, manjistha, daruharidra, etc.

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