Shingles – Herbal Healing and Comfort
Shingles, also known as herpes zoster virus, is closely related to chicken pox. The herpes zoster virus can lay dormant in a persons system, long after having chicken pox initially. Shingles can be quite painful, and can cause skin blisters that can last for a very long time. It can be spread to children who have never contracted the chicken pox virus, but generally is not contagious. An outbreak of Shingles can occur for a number of different reasons, stress and a lowered immune system, and even certain medications could trigger an onset. There are quite a few herbs that can help alleviate some symptoms of Shingles, and help move towards a quicker healing.
Lemon Balm for Shingles
Lemon Balm is widely known for it’s topical benefits. This antiviral has been known to help any in the family of the herpes virus. It reduces stress associated with Shingles, and after research, has found to cut healing time in half, when applied directly to the blisters. Making an infusion or tea with Lemon Balm, and applying with either a cotton ball or cotton swab, provides a soothing effect. Lemon Balm tea can also be made and taken internally, to help promote healing even faster. On top of the that, Lemon Balm has a positive effect on anxiety and tension, two things associated with Shingles. It’s also a great pain suppressant.
Other Herbs and Their Healing Properties
There is a wide variety of herbs that are used in aiding the healing process of Shingles. Licorice is another very common herb. Using fresh licorice root, make an infusion and drink this through out the day, until the Shingles starts to subside.Dabbing the tea directly on the Shingles also will help the blisters start to heal. Aside from the benefits for Shingles, Licorice root is also very useful for any viral infections. Another common herb used for Shingles, is Red Pepper. Red Pepper has the ability to help block pain in nerve endings, so applying a small amount directly, will help alleviate the pain. Red Pepper can also be mixed with other herbs for a more added benefit, or you may also choose to mix it with lotion. Neem, although maybe a little lesser known for Shingles, has the ability to heal many skin conditions, and help maintain a clear complexion. Mint is another herb to consider for the discomfort of Shingles. This natural astringent, can help keep the area free of bacteria, which could potentially cause more discomfort and problems than the existing condition. This includes Spearmint and Peppermint. The juice can be put directly on the skin blisters, as it is quite gentle. Calendula is also another popular herb used for skin ailments. Calendula is very soothing, as well as an anti-fungal, and anti-inflammatory, among many other properties. Red Clover, a common herb, found nearly everywhere, is another well-known herb to help with skin problems. It is great for all skin inflammations, not only for Shingles, but psoriasis and eczema, too. Echinacea has been known primarily for it’s usefulness for colds and flus, and other bronchial problems. Echinacea is also good for Shingles, as it is a good immune system booster.Dried Echinacea can be put directly on boils and wounds and helps considerably. Another herb is Nettle. The positives of Nettle are many. Not only is it a general tonic, jam full of lots of vitamins and minerals, it is used for Shingles as well. While St. John’s Wort is one of the more common herbs in the treatment of depression and anxiety, it also works for Shingles. It works well on the nervous system, repairing and restoring. A infusion made from St. John’s Wort, has pain relieving effects. While it may take up to six weeks for any marked improvement, St. John’s Wort is very beneficial. It has been used for thousands of years to help heal skin problems and many ailments, including sunburn, burns and Shingles. St.John’s Wort has been known to cause sun sensitivity, so always be wary of exceeding the proper dosage. Ginseng, also used for Shingles, strengthens the immune system, and can provide the skin with a protective layer. Long term use, in small dosages is considered best for Ginseng. Aloe Vera can also provide a soothing effect on damaged skin, and pumps the body full of essential vitamins. Always be sure to use the inside gel of the aloe vera plant, and not the watery coating on the outside of the gel fillet, as it has a laxative effect if taken internally.This can be removed by rinsing in warm water, after you have taken all the green parts off.
Exercise Caution
As with every and all herbs and herbal remedies, always exercise caution. While generally, herbs are safe, if you are allergic, or do not take the proper dose, very negative side effects can occur. Always be sure to do any and all research involving specific herbs.Pregnant and nursing women, as well as any herbs administered to children, should always be practice with the utmost safety. Be sure to ask your doctor or physician if you are considering any herbs or herbal remedies, as some may interact with certain medications.
Category: HEALTH, HERBAL REMEDIES
