Shingles are caused due to a virus named varicella-zoster virus. This virus is also responsible for causing chicken pox which after several years can cause shingles in adulthood. It is commonly caused between the age of sixty and eighty years.
The chicken pox virus becomes dormant in the nervous tissue and weakens the immune system. The symptoms of shingles are similar to that of chicken pox and cause rashes on the whole skin. Usually neck, face and chest are the main areas that get affected with the virus. Headache and fever can also be associated with this disease. Allergies due to food or medicine, stress, constipation etc. may also be the reasons behind this disease.
It results in huge pain, itchiness or burning sensation. After healing, it leaves scars that disappear after some time. Those who are suffering from HIV, cancer or have organ transplant, this disease can be very serious. It can also lead to vision loss for permanent or temporary period if eyes get affected due to this. A number of natural herbs can be used for reducing the symptoms of shingles and fighting with the virus.
Top Herbal Remedies for Shingles Pain
Aloe vera
Mixing aloe vera in gel form with raw honey and leek juice and applying to the rashes can be beneficial for the treatment of shingles. Aloe vera in the form of gel or ointment can be helpful in reducing pain related to shingles. Using the gel for topical medication has no side effects.
Mix cayenne pepper with aloe vera gel and apply over the affected area for effective use by using one tablespoon of aloe vera gel and one eighth teaspoon of cayenne pepper. Aloe vera cream containing 0.5 % aloe can be applied over the infected area for three times in a day.
Flaxseed Oil
One tablespoon of flaxseed oil can be consumed on daily basis for the treatment of shingles pain. Consume it until all the rashes are healed. It is also very useful for repairing the nerve cells. The antioxidants contained in the flaxseed oil help in promoting the immune system. It can also be applied over the skin to prevent rashes. Applying two drops of flaxseed oil can be applied over blisters and rashes.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Mix half cup of apple cider vinegar in two cups of water. Apply this herbal remedy over the rashes using a cotton cloth for better treatment. Using this herbal remedy for two to three times in a day would be very beneficial. It can be combined with vitamin E for getting relief from discomfort caused due to shingles.
Yellow Root
Prepare tea from yellow root and apply over the infected area as a wash. Apply using a cotton ball for three times in a day. It can also be added in an ointment or a cream and applied for effective use. Adding oil in the herb can be more beneficial.
Mint
Make a paste using three to four mint leaves and apply over the infected area. These leaves have a cooling effect and provide relief from pain associated with shingles. Using the herb as paste for three to four times can be very effective and have a soothing effect. It also helps in reducing itching, pain and burning sensation.
Peppermint, wintergreen and spearmint provide a cooling effect after applying these herbs over the infected area. The leaves of these herbs can be mixed in boiling water and can be applied as a cold compress. These herbs can also be mixed with vinegar in the diluted form and used as a compress.
Cayenne Pepper
It is one of the best herbs for reducing pain associated with shingles. It can be consumed in the form of capsule or can be added in the food. It can be used in the form of cream. Red pepper in powdered form can be mixed in ointment or body lotion for effective use. It can be applied for several times in a day. Don’t use the red pepper remedy around eyes.
St. John’s Wort
The herb is useful in healing the wounds and reducing itching related to shingles. It acts as a nerve tonic and provides relief from pain associated with damaged nerves. It has anti-viral properties that are beneficial for curing shingles. It can be used for topical medication to reduce the skin burns and wounds as well. It effectively soothes the pain in the nerve.
Colloidal Silver
Apply this over the infected area would be beneficial for treating shingles. It prevents the viruses from replicating. Colloidal silver along with proteolytic enzymes and extract of olive leaf can help in the treatment of shingles.
Calendula
Tea prepared from this herb can be used as a wash. It has antiseptic properties and reduces inflammation. Calendula oil can be effective in curing skin ailments like shingles. It can also be used in the form of tincture and salve.
Rosemary
Apply ravensara along with rosemary over the infected area. The herb can also be consumed in the form of capsules taken three times in a day. Rosemary in the form of oil can be used externally to reduce muscle and joint pain. It can also be added in the food as spice. Four to six grams of rosemary leaves can be consumed on daily basis.
Willow
Make a paste from willow leaves and apply over the infected area. Drinking tea prepared from leaves of willow would provide relief from rashes.
Valerian
The herb can be combined with skullcap for effective use. Consuming this combination in the form of capsules would provide relief from pain associated with shingles.
Burdock
Leaves of burdock herb are very effective in the treatment of shingles. These leaves can be boiled in water and applied over the infected area when cooled. Borage herb is also similar kind of herb and is very beneficial for the treatment of shingles.
Olive
Olive leaves can be used for preparing tea that is effective for the treatment of shingles. This herb can also be consumed in the form of capsule that reduces the infections caused due to shingles.
Echinacea
Using Echinacea is an effective herbal remedy for curing shingles. It is also useful for boosting up the immune system.
Caution: Please use Remedies after Proper Research and Guidance. You accept that you are following any advice at your own risk and will properly research or consult healthcare professional.
