Shingles are a condition that causes a painful itchy rash on the torso or face. More than 1 million people develop this condition in the United States alone. Shingles are caused by the reactivation of the herpes zoster virus. Most people get infected with this virus in childhood when having a condition called chickenpox. After you get treated for chickenpox, the virus remains in your body and may become active at some point.
If you suspect you have shingles, it is recommended to visit a doctor. But apart from medical treatment, there are also certain home remedies that can help treat shingles and relieve the symptoms.
1. Stress management
Reducing your stress levels is one of the most effective ways to treat shingles. Chronic and severe stress suppresses the function of your immune system and delays healing. By managing your stress levels you can promote healing of the lesions and relieve inflammation. To reduce and manage your stress levels, you can use meditation and other relaxing techniques.
2. Vitamin supplements
Several food supplements can help speed up the recovery from shingles and relieve the symptoms. Supplements like vitamin C and echinacea strengthen the immune system and help your body fight off infections and viruses. Vitamin B12 helps reduce pain and promote a faster recovery. Zinc supports the function of your immune system and has an antiviral effect.
3. Essential oils
There are several essential oils that can help you soothe and treat shingles. They relieve inflammation and boost healing properties. Some of the best oils for your shingles include chamomile oil, eucalyptus oil, and tea tree oil. Chamomile and tea tree oils have amazing anti-microbial properties. By applying it to the ulcers, you can speed up their regeneration and ease itching. Eucalyptus has a cooling effect and helps calm itching and relieve inflammation.
You need to be careful when using pure essential oils. In some cases, they can cause an allergic reaction. If you are allergic, be sure to mix oil with water or opt for a pre-mixed option as a safe topical ointment. You can consult the best pain doctor to choose a natural pain-relieving ointment that will work.
4. Oat baths
The extract of oat can help moisturize and soothe painful and itching sores on your skin. Bathing in water with added oat extract calms sensitive and inflamed skin. This treatment option is approved by the FDA, so you can safely use this remedy. It is recommended to choose colloidal oatmeal that usually doesn’t contain protein. This helps prevent allergic reactions and worsening of the symptoms. You can mix oats extract with essential oils and add in the cold water to relieve pain and itching.
5. Diet
A healthy diet is crucial to strengthen your immune system and relieve the symptoms of shingles. You need to fill your diet with products like fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and foods containing healthy fats. It is also recommended to load up on products that contain carotenoids. These products include carrots, oranges, apricots, asparagus, beef liver, sweet potato, cantaloupe, and many others. Carotenoids help improve the function of the immune system and fight shingles faster.
6. Cold compress
Another effective remedy for the treatment of shingles is a cold compress. By applying a piece of cooled cloth to the rash, you can relieve inflammation and ease annoying itching. Soak a towel in the cold water and wiring it out. Then, you can put this towel on the sore and itching areas. You can repeat this procedure several times a day when you feel the need. However, avoid applying a compress that has an extremely low temperature. Otherwise, you can damage the skin or increase skin sensitivity.
