Shingles is a painful skin condition that is caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox. It is characterized by a rash of blisters on one side of the body and can be accompanied by other symptoms such as itching, burning, and flu-like symptoms. In this post, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, and treatments of shingles, and provide tips on how to prevent and manage this condition. We will also explore how shingles can affect your life, and how to cope with its effects. In this post, we will discuss some home remedies for shingles that can help reduce the symptoms and speed up the healing process. We will cover natural remedies like essential oils, herbs, and over-the-counter medications. We will also discuss how to manage your shingles pain, including simple lifestyle changes and tips to reduce stress. Finally, we will discuss when to see a doctor and when to seek medical help. By following the advice in this post, you can find relief from the discomfort of shingles and get back to living your life.
Root Causes
Shingles is also known as Herpes Zoster (Scientific), dad chajan (Hindi/Urdu), nagin (Marathi), Akki cinnammai (Tamil), Dai zhuang pao zhen (Chinese), Infección de herpes (Spanish), herpes zoster (Portuguese), Harapisa zoster (Bengali), Opoyasyvayushchiy gerpes (Russian), Herpes zoster or zona. Shingles is an extremely painful disease caused by the herpes zoster virus (which is also the chickenpox virus). Following an attack of chickenpox the virus remains dormant in the body. Many years later a drop in the efficiency of the immune system may cause reactivation of the virus, this time in the form of shingles, causing acute inflammation in the ganglia near the spinal cord.
Common Symptoms
The first sign of shingles is sensitivity in the area to be affected, then pain, fever or sickness. A rash of small blisters develops on the fourth or fifth day; these turn yellow within a few days, form scabs, then drop off, sometimes leaving scars. The pain, which can be disabling, may continue for a few months after the blisters heal.
Shingles – Herpes Zoster Home Remedies
- Mint Tea: Try using a mixed mint tea. Use lots of Lemon Balm plus any other mints you would like: Hyssop, Oregano, Peppermint, Rosemary, Sage, Self Heal, Spearmint or Thyme. Add a little Licorice as well. Drink it and also try applying it directly to the rash.
- Aloe Vera: Fresh aloe vera gel or lotion can be applied to sore and inflamed skin, and may be used for conditions such as herpes sores and shingles. Wash the leaf and cut lengthwise. Slice each piece in half, to expose the largest amount of gel. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap and tape. Store into refrigerator. To use remove plastic and apply the gel side of the leaf to the skin; smear over the affected area, or hold in place with a bandage.
- Cayenne Pepper: Creams containing cayenne are frequently used in the treatment of shingles. As it has great antimicrobial qualities and can help in regeneration of damaged cells in the body. A salve composed of 1 tablespoon aloe vera gel, 1 tablespoon organic coconut oil and 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper can applied to the infected area 3 – 4 times per day. Cayenne can be taken in capsule form, added to food, and applied as cream.
- St. John’s Wort Oil: St. John’s wort tincture can be used for shingles, cold sores, and herpes. It is a traditional folk remedy. Here is DIY home recipe. To make St. John’s wort oil pick the flowering tops on a dry, sunny morning. Put into a pestle, add a small amount of a pure, light vegetable oil such as sunflower oil. Pour just enough to cover, then pound together to crush, bruise, and start releasing the oil. Put into a large clear glass jar. Cover with more oil so that all of the herb is well covered. Shake well. Then add another inch of oil. Leave outside in direct sunlight for 20 days. The oil will turn red when it is ready. Use it for skin healing and for nerve damage. This oil is best as a base for massage oils, or as a salve.
- Plantain Leaf Lotion: Plantain leaf lotion can soothes neuralgic pains and shingles rash. To make lotion, finely chop sufficient fresh plantain leaves to fill a small jar. Add sufficient glycerin to cover the leaves. Stand for 2 weeks, stirring from time to time. Strain and store in a dark bottle. Makes a soothing and healing lotion for weeping and itchy rashes and insect bites too.
- All Spice Paste: For treating the spots which develop, apply all spice paste. Grind cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg in a pestle and mortar. Add water to make a thick paste. Apply to spots to numb the pain. You can also buy all spices in ready made ground powder.
- Celery: Celery juice or celery tea can alleviate the pain and help to tone up the nervous system.
- Juniper Berry: Apply bruised juniper berries to the spots for effective pain relief.
- Lemon / Lemon Balm: Fresh lemon can be cut and applied to the affected areas to relieve the pain. Lemon balm is also useful on chicken pox and shingles. Both chicken pox and shingles are the same virus as herpes. Used topically, lemon balm will help heal the sores of chicken pox and shingles much quicker than on their own.
- Lavender Oil: Lavender oil can be applied to the skin in almost any situation involving pain. Massage the oil onto herpes or shingles sores.
- Lysine: Lysine is considered a natural remedy for cold, sores, shingles and genital herpes. Try to include food in diet which are high in lysine such as tofu, meat, fish, green peas, navy beans.
Shingles FAQs.
Q. How do you describe the pain of shingles?
The pain of shingles is typically described as burning, tingling, or stabbing. It can range from mild to severe, and is usually located in a band or strip on one side of the body. It can also be accompanied by itching or sensitivity to touch.
Q. Is it true that if you’ve never had chicken pox, you can’t get shingles?
No, it is not true. Even if you have never had chickenpox, you can still get shingles. It is caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox, so it is possible for someone to get shingles even if they have never had chickenpox.
Q. What are Shingles?
Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. It causes a painful rash that usually appears on one side of the body, along with fever, headache, and fatigue. Shingles is most common in people over the age of 50, but can occur in people of any age. Treatment typically involves antiviral medication, pain medication, and other supportive care.
Q. How can I relieve the stinging pain caused from shingles?
- Take a cool bath or shower.
- Apply a cool compress to the affected area.
- Take over-the-counter pain medication to help reduce pain and inflammation.
- Apply a topical anesthetic cream to help relieve the pain.
- Apply an over-the-counter anti-itch cream to reduce itching.
- Get plenty of rest and try to reduce stress levels.
- Talk to your doctor about prescription medications that may help relieve pain.
Q. What are the causes of shingles?
Shingles is caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), which is the same virus that causes chickenpox. After a person has had chickenpox, the virus can remain inactive in the body for years. In some people, the virus may become active again, causing shingles. The exact cause of the virus reactivation is unknown, but it is believed to be related to a weakened immune system. Factors that can weaken the immune system include stress, certain medications, and illnesses such as cancer or HIV/AIDS.
Q. How long does shingles last?
Shingles usually lasts between two and four weeks. However, symptoms can persist for months or even years in some cases.
Q. Can emotional stress cause shingles?
No, emotional stress does not cause shingles. It is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which is the same virus that causes chickenpox. The virus lies dormant in nerve cells and can be reactivated when the immune system is weakened.
Q. Are shingles contagious?
No, it is not contagious. However, it is possible for someone who has never had chickenpox to catch chickenpox from someone with shingles. Therefore, it is important for people with shingles to take precautions to avoid spreading chickenpox to others.
Q. What do shingles look like when they start?
Shingles typically start as a band or patch of itchy, painful, and/or tingly skin. The area may be slightly raised and/or red, and a rash may also appear. Blisters may form in the affected area and can be filled with fluid. The rash may eventually form a scab or crust.
Q. Can a person get shingles more than once?
Yes, a person can get shingles more than once. In fact, about one in three people who have had shingles will have a recurrence of the disease.
How can I soothe shingles at home?
- Take a cool bath or shower. The cool water will help soothe the skin and reduce itching.
- Wear loose-fitting clothing. Tight clothing can irritate the rash and cause further discomfort.
- Apply calamine lotion to the affected area. This can help reduce itching and pain.
- Apply a cold compress to the affected area. This can help reduce pain and itching.
- Take an over-the-counter antihistamine to reduce itching and discomfort.
- Avoid scratching the rash. This can lead to further irritation and can lead to infection.
- Use aloe vera gel to soothe the area.