Shingles is a virus that causes a painful and blistering rash. If you’ve had chickenpox, then you are at risk of developing shingles which is caused by the varicella-zoster virus. This is the same virus that causes chickenpox. There are many treatments for shingles that can help you deal with the pain and discomfort. Shingles is not life-threatening but can be almost unbearable due to the pain. You may need to try several remedies until you find one that gives you relief.
Neem Leaves
Neem leaves have antiviral properties that can counteract the effects of the varicella-zoster virus. You can prepare a poultice of neem leaves and apply to the affected areas. This will provide you with much-needed relief and will also help heal the skin. Placing a few neem leaves in your bath water and soaking the affected areas can also help your skin.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is useful in drying the oozing blisters that develop. This is a traditional treatment that has been used to treat chickenpox and the shingles rash. To use apple cider vinegar, apply a compress of apple cider vinegar with equal parts of warm water. Adding two to four cups of apple cider vinegar can also be added to warm bath water. You can soak in the bath to get relief from the rash because the acidity of the apple cider vinegar will help dry out the blisters and provide relief from itching. You should avoid this remedy if the blisters are open.
Calendula Oil
The blisters caused by the shingles virus are not only painful, but they can be itchy. Use calendula oil to get relief from the itching. Calendula is known to have anti-inflammatory properties and can promote wound healing while improving the texture of skin. The flavonoids in this herb are responsible for its healing properties.
Oatmeal
An oatmeal bath is relaxing and soothing to the skin. Adding oatmeal to the warm water can provide relief from itching as well as promote healing. Finely ground oatmeal added to warm bath water will coat the skin which provides the relief you’re seeking. It is the gluten in the oats that is responsible for the anti-itch and soothing properties of oatmeal.
Capsaicin Ointment
You can counteract the unbearable pain of shingles with capsaicin oil. Capsaicin is found in red pepper and diminishes the neurotransmitter known as substance P. which transmits pain signals to the brain. You can buy this ointment in most health food stores. Alternatively, you can make your solution by mixing a pinch of powdered red pepper with plain skin ointment. You should test a small patch of skin to see how your skin reacts to the mixture.
Honey
Honey is known for its many health benefits. One surprising benefit of honey is that it can provide relief from the shingles rash. It has antiviral properties and will act against the shingles virus. It is also soothing to the skin. All you need to do is dab a little honey on the affected areas, and your skin should begin to feel better.
Fuller’s Earth
Fuller’s earth can be applied to the skin to dry up the blisters and ease the pain. Simply mix fuller’s earth with water to form a thick paste. Apply the paste to a clean cloth and cover with gauze. You can then apply the paste to your rash up to two times per day.
Baking Soda
Baking soda has a myriad of uses. It makes a great cleaner and deodorizer and contributes its helpful properties to a wide range of beauty and body product. You can also use baking soda to relieve the itching associated with shingles. Add a teaspoon of baking soda to a glass of water and apply to your skin. You can also add baking soda to your bath water. Although experts don’t know exactly why baking soda works, they believe its alkaline properties play a role in providing relief.
Chamomile
Chamomile is known for its soothing properties. You can add chamomile or to your bath to soothe your skin with its anti-inflammatory properties.
Licorice
You can use licorice gel to ease the pain of shingles even after the blisters disappear. This herb contains glycyrrhizin which has been found to stop the shingles virus from replicating. You can apply the licorice gel a couple of times a day to get relief. You can also boil the herb to make a tea and apply the mixture to the affected areas for relief.