Natural Remedies for Shingles Relief

Before diving into this informative article, we’d like to suggest a natural product that may provide relief for shingles: Face Naturals Honey Healing Cream

Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a painful viral condition caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus (VZV) — the identical virus that results in chickenpox. It is estimated that one in three individuals in the United States will experience shingles in their lifetime. Although there is no definitive cure for shingles, a range of natural treatments can provide significant relief from the distressing symptoms, reduce the duration of the virus, and lower the risk of postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), a lingering nerve pain that can persist for weeks or even months after the rash clears.

Understanding Shingles and Its Complications

Before delving into the natural remedies for shingles, it’s important to understand the nature of this condition and the complications it may lead to. Shingles is an infection that primarily affects the nerves, leading to a painful rash on one side of the body. This rash usually appears in small sections and is often accompanied by fever, light sensitivity, and fatigue.

The varicella-zoster virus remains dormant in the body after a person recovers from chickenpox. It can reactivate years later, causing shingles. This reactivation is often triggered by a weakened immune system, stress, trauma, or other illnesses.

One of the most distressing complications of shingles is postherpetic neuralgia (PHN). This condition occurs when nerve fibers become damaged, resulting in persistent pain even after the rash has cleared. The pain from PHN can be debilitating and can significantly impact a person’s quality of life.

Natural Remedies for Shingles

1. Therapeutic Baths

Baths can provide significant relief for individuals suffering from shingles. There are several types of therapeutic baths you can try at home:

2. Take a Cool or Cold Water Bath

Cool water baths or showers can soothe the skin and alleviate the pain and itchiness caused by shingles blisters. Soaking in cool water for about 15 minutes can also keep the skin clean, reducing the risk of skin infections. It’s important to avoid using hot water or extremely cold water, as these can aggravate the skin and worsen symptoms.

3. Take An Oatmeal Bath

Oatmeal is a potent remedy for combating shingles, harnessing its beneficial properties to alleviate symptoms effectively. Adding oatmeal to your bath water can provide extra relief. Oatmeal has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce itching and swelling. You can make an oatmeal bath by adding one to two cups of colloidal oatmeal to lukewarm bath water and soaking for 15 to 20 minutes.

4. Cold Compresses

Applying a cold, moist compress to the shingles rash can help reduce symptoms. The coolness of the compress can alleviate pain, and this can be done several times throughout the day as needed. It’s important to use a clean washcloth each time and to avoid applying an ice pack directly to the rash to prevent increasing skin sensitivity.

5. Topical Poultice

Topical pastes made with activated charcoal, baking soda or cornstarch can also bring relief. These pastes can be applied to the rash for 10 to 15 minutes and reapplied several times a day as needed. It is important to start any topical treatment with clean, dry skin and avoid applying too much. Additionally, moisturizing with Face Naturals Honey Healing Cream after the paste has been removed is necessary for optimal relief. When using these treatments it is important to avoid contact with eyes and broken skin as irritation may occur. If irritation persists, discontinue use and seek medical advice.

6. Essential Oils

Certain essential oils have properties that can help with shingles caused by skin irritation that can lead to healing. These include chamomile oil, eucalyptus oil, and tea tree oil. However, it’s important to note that essential oils can cause skin irritation or even allergic reactions, so they should be diluted with a carrier oil and tested on a small area of skin before broader application.

7. Dietary Remedies

Food is medicine when dealing with shingles. A healthy, organic diet plays a crucial role in preventing and fighting shinglesThe Keto diet might be worth considering as a temporary solution to expedite the elimination of shingles. Consuming foods rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin B, vitamin D, as well as green leafy vegetables, can help boost your immune system. Additionally, staying well-hydrated is vital for flushing out waste from your system and maintaining the health of your kidneys and liver. Make sure to drink plenty of water every day for optimal health.

8. Healing Herbal Remedies

Certain herbs, such as Gentiana scabra, are believed to have a positive effect on pain relief in shingles and decrease the likelihood of postherpetic neuralgia. Postherpetic neuralgia (post-hur-PET-ik noo-RAL-juh), known as the most prevalent complication of shingles, manifests as a persistent burning pain affecting both nerves and skin. This excruciating sensation persists long after the disappearance of shingles’ rash and blisters.

St John ‘s Wort

St John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum) is a medicinal weed that has spread throughout most parts of Australia. When applied topically as an infused oil, it can help alleviate the pain of shingles. This herb not only has anti-viral action but also has a particular affinity for the herpes zoster virus and nerve pain.

Peppermint

Peppermint (Mentha x piperita) is known for its cooling effect and can help soothe the intensity of the neurological pain associated with shingles. It is best applied topically in a cream base. We recommend Face Naturals Honey Healing Cream

Lemon Balm

Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis) is a member of the mint family that can be helpful in soothing the pain associated with shingles.

Neem

Neem (Azidirachta indica) leaves have antiviral properties that can counteract the effects of the shingles virus. It is best used as an infused oil, applied topically.

Hibiscus

Hibiscus (Hibiscus sabdariffa) is often used in China to treat herpes zoster topically. Hibiscus is very safe, both topically and orally.

Conclusion

Shingles can be a painful and distressing condition, but various natural remedies can offer relief. Whether it’s therapeutic baths, cold compresses, topical pastes, essential oils, or dietary and herbal remedies, these home remedies can help alleviate symptoms and support healing. However, remember that these remedies are not substitutes for medical treatment. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment regimen for shingles.