Shingles, also known as Herpes Zoster, is a distressing skin condition characterized by a painful, blistering rash. It results from the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. This virus can remain dormant in the nerve tissues of the spinal cord and brain for years following the initial chickenpox infection.
Although shingles is not life-threatening, it can cause significant discomfort, particularly in older adults or those with weakened immune systems. To manage this condition, many turn to natural remedies to complement medical treatments. While a vaccine can reduce the risk of shingles, it doesn't eliminate it entirely, making the exploration of natural remedies a valuable aspect of managing the symptoms and discomfort associated with this condition.
Shingles typically manifests as a red rash on a small section of one side of the body, usually following several days of pain, burning, numbness, itching, or tingling. This rash often develops into fluid-filled blisters or crusty sores. Additionally, shingles can cause general body aches, fever, and fatigue.
Shingles, characterized by painful blisters and nerve pain, can be effectively managed with various natural remedies, as reported by users on Earth Clinic. These remedies, recognized as some of the most effective on the site, focus on alleviating discomfort and promoting healing.
Antifungal creams, particularly clotrimazole, have emerged as a surprisingly effective remedy for shingles, offering relief from symptoms and aiding in recovery. While primarily designed to treat fungal infections like athlete's foot, these creams have shown potential in managing shingles, which is caused by a virus.
The effectiveness of antifungal cream against shingles may be due to its potential to penetrate a protective layer that viruses might possess. This penetration allows for more effective treatment, akin to how a wetting agent breaks down mold before bleach can dissolve it. While this theory could benefit from further scientific explanation, the anecdotal evidence from a number of readers suggests a promising avenue for shingles treatment.
A Hollywood-based reader detailed her positive experience with clotrimazole antifungal cream for shingles treatment in one of the initial posts discussing the use of an antifungal for this condition in 2007. She found that applying this cream, followed by Clorox disinfectant the next day, alleviated the shingles and prevented its recurrence for more than five years. This suggests that the antifungal cream might be crucial in breaking down the virus's defenses, making it more susceptible to treatment.
Using ground aspirin mixed into a water-based cream has emerged as an innovative treatment method for shingles, offering pain relief and potential antiviral benefits. This successful approach, shared by Art Solbrig from California, involves integrating easily dissolvable, uncoated aspirin into a cream for topical application.
Several studies cited in the post suggest aspirin's role as an antiviral agent, indicating its potential effectiveness against the varicella-zoster virus responsible for shingles.
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is a favored remedy for shingles on Earth Clinic. This natural and multifaceted substance has a centuries-old history of use and is celebrated for its ability to alleviate and heal various conditions, shingles included.
Butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), a compound commonly used as a food preservative, has been reported by users as an effective natural remedy for shingles. Individuals have shared their experiences with BHT, highlighting its potential in reducing pain and managing symptoms.
A user from Cupertino, California, emphasized the efficacy of BHT when applied topically. They suggest dissolving 10-15% BHT by weight in refined coconut oil and applying it to one side of the body affected by shingles, leaving the other side as a control. This method allows for a direct comparison, demonstrating the effectiveness of BHT in reducing shingles pain within hours. The user notes that while BHT from the treated area can distribute to the untreated side, the difference in pain relief is still noticeable.
Another user from Hawaii shared their long-term experience with BHT. Approximately 35 years ago, they dealt with shingles and used a combination of melissa oil, vitamin C, lysine, and vitamin B5. More recently, they undertook a regimen of BHT (1/4 teaspoon daily for several months) and reported significant improvement, with no shingles flare-ups since. They plan to continue BHT usage periodically as both a preventive measure for shingles and potentially for other viral conditions.
Geranium essential oil has emerged as a beneficial natural remedy for managing shingles symptoms. Known for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, geranium oil can provide significant relief from the pain and discomfort associated with shingles.
Neem leaves are renowned for their antiviral properties, making them effective against the varicella-zoster virus, which causes shingles. Applying a poultice made from neem leaves directly to the skin rashes can aid in their healing. Bathing in water infused with neem leaves can provide relief and promote recovery from shingles.
Oatmeal baths are highly effective in alleviating the itching associated with shingles. Grind oatmeal into a fine powder and mix it into tepid bath water for a soothing effect.
The L-Lysine to L-Arginine ratio in your body significantly impacts shingles. Since the virus thrives more in an environment with higher levels of L-arginine, it's advisable to limit foods rich in arginine such as nuts, tomatoes, grapes, chocolate, blueberries, and blackberries. Conversely, incorporating lysine-rich foods like dairy products, apricots, pears, apples, pineapples, and asparagus can be beneficial in managing shingles.
Applying a cold compress can provide immediate relief from itching. Simply dip a clean washcloth in cool water and place it over the shingles blisters.
Calendula, known for its healing and anti-inflammatory properties, is widely recommended by herbalists for shingles. Applying calendula oil, lotion, or gel several times a day can help soothe itching and accelerate the healing of blisters.
Capsaicin, found in red pepper, acts as a natural painkiller by exhausting the neurotransmitter known as Substance P, which transmits pain signals to the brain. Capsaicin ointments are readily available at health food stores, pharmacies, and online. Alternatively, you can create a homemade version by mixing finely powdered red pepper with a base ointment or moisturizing lotion. However, it's crucial to avoid applying capsaicin on broken skin and to conduct a patch test on a small skin area to check for allergic reactions.
Research indicates that honey possesses antiviral properties effective against the varicella-zoster virus. Applying raw, organic honey to affected skin areas can aid in healing due to its soothing effects.
Fuller’s Earth clay is beneficial for drying out shingles blisters. Create a paste using Fuller’s Earth clay and water, and apply it to a gauze-covered cloth. Place this poultice on the rash at least twice daily for best results.
Eucalyptus essential oil, containing menthol, provides a cooling effect that can alleviate itching and burning sensations associated with shingles.
Chamomile is renowned for its soothing properties. Adding chamomile to bath water can offer significant relief from the itching caused by shingles.
Licorice contains Glycyrrhizin, an active compound that inhibits the varicella-zoster virus replication. Applying a homemade extract, made by boiling licorice in water, to the blisters can be an effective traditional treatment for shingles.
Olive leaf extract exhibits antiviral properties against the varicella-zoster virus. Its use can be beneficial in treating and managing shingles, helping reduce viral activity.
Key Symptoms Include:
Additional Symptoms May Include:
Complications in People with Weakened Immune Systems:
Most people with shingles do not experience severe complications, but these risks highlight the importance of early detection and management.
Please continue reading to learn some of the most effective home remedies sent by our readers to heal the painful shingles, blisters and nerve pain. The most popular treatment is apple cider vinegar. Still, our readers have also reported success using acidophilus, topical aspirin lotion, antifungal cream, aloe vera, cayenne pepper, colloidal silver, coconut oil, and many other remedies.
Let us know what you have tried to treat shingles! Do you know of a remedy not yet listed here? Please don't hesitate to share it with us!
