Shingles, or herpes zoster, is an infectious disease caused by the varicella-zoster virus. It is the same virus that also causes chicken pox. This virus often remains dormant within the nervous system of individuals for years and reactivates as shingles. It takes about two to three weeks to completely recover from this infection. Initial symptoms include red patches and painful fluid-filled blisters present on one side of the body, especially on the torso. These itching and burning rashes may also appear on the face and ears. Though the virus rarely causes infection more than once in the same person, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that in the United States, approximately 1 out of 3 individuals have had this condition at some point in their life. Up to one million people in America are diagnosed with shingles every year.
Natural remedies for shingles
Use of essential oils: There are a few essential oils that provide soothing relief from painful shingle rashes occurring on one side of the body. Chamomile and tea tree oil have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that help in reducing pain and swelling. They also promote new cell-generation. However, it’s important to never apply pure essential oils directly to these rashes. Dilute it either with water or with another carrier oil before using on the affected area. Some experts recommend conducting a patch test on the skin where there are no rashes before going ahead with this remedy.
Healing baths: Getting a cool bath also helps to provide relief from the sore and itchy rashes of shingles. It also reduces pain and keeps the skin clean. The risk of secondary infections is also minimized when the body remains clean. Some physicians suggest using one or two cups of colloidal oatmeal to cool the bath water to decrease inflammation and prevent the chance of allergic reactions. Oat protein releases active ingredients such as flavonoids and saponins in water, which has a soothing effect on the body.
Cold compresses: Use of a cold compress on shingle blisters reduces inflammation and itching sensation. Soak a cotton towel in cold water, wring it properly, and leave on the rashes for a few minutes. Repeat the process a few times to relieve the pain. Do not use too cold or too hot water for this process, as the high temperature of water increases the blood flow and slows down the healing process. Cold water, on the other hand, may increase skin sensitivity.
Baking soda and cornstarch paste: Make a paste of cornstarch, baking soda and water, and apply it directly on the shingle rashes to reduce itching. Leave the paste on the skin for about 10 to 15 minutes so that it can absorb the active ingredients of this paste and heal the blisters naturally.
The aforementioned ingredients are just some of the effective natural remedies for shingles. They can be used daily for a speedy recovery.
