Treatment for Shingles

Shingles is a condition that is caused by the varicella zoster virus also known as the herpes-zoster virus. This virus is also responsible for chickenpox. If you have suffered from chickenpox at a younger age, it is possible that the virus has become dormant in the body. Yes, the virus is never eliminated, it remains in the body in a passive state. At a later stage in life, it is possible that this virus becomes active again, and causes shingles, signified by the breakout of a rash all over the body. Other symptoms of shingles include dizziness, headache and nausea. You are more likely to suffer from this condition if you have a weak immune system, and if you are within the age group 50-80. However, this can occur in younger adults too. Here, we discuss the treatment for shingles in adults, and provide some natural remedies to cure the condition.

Natural Remedies

Natural treatment for shingles has always been popular, and till date, serves as an effective way of treating the itchy, burning, and painful outbreak of rashes on your skin. The sooner it is treated, the better, as it is a contagious condition that can cause chickenpox in those who have never suffered from it. Moreover, if the blisters you have on your skin are fresh and have any kind of fluid in them, that is the only way they can spread and manifest into shingles in someone else. Shingles itself is otherwise not contagious. If you do not wish to resort to an over-the-counter treatment method, take a look at these natural remedies, as well as some herbal ways to treat this condition.

• Begin by strengthening your immune system, and consuming foods with vitamin C. Vitamin C is known to boost the effectiveness of the immune system, and therefore make it capable of tackling this virus that is causing painful symptoms. You may also take vitamin C supplements for this purpose, but only after consulting a doctor. Other nutrients you should consume include vitamin A, calcium, magnesium, zinc and selenium, vitamins E and B12.
• To clear out the virus, drink a concoction of sea salt and water, or just consume fresh, raw garlic with your meals, as it has antiseptic properties, and will cure shingles naturally.
• Apply raw honey on the affected area, to get instant relief from the itching and burning. Cover up the area with a gauze strip thereafter. Honey has the ability to prevent the chances of a bacterial infection from the rash. As you apply it on a regular basis you will notice a great difference in the way you feel.
• Dip a washcloth in a mixture of ½ cup apple cider vinegar, and 2 cups of water. After wringing out the excess solution place it on the affected area for about an hour. Continue this process regularly till you notice that the rash has gone completely.
• Cayenne pepper has a component called capsaicin that is known to soothe the rashes and the itch that is caused by shingles. Mix a small amount with an unscented but soothing body lotion, and apply it on the affected area. It will even relieve all the associated pain.
• Apply myrrh tincture on the affected area of your body, at least 2-3 times a day. You may even consume 1 dropper about 3-4 times a day. This will heal your skin over time and serve as an effective shingles pain relief method.
• Apply a liberal amount of virgin coconut oil on the area and cover it up with a bandage. With its anti-inflammatory properties it serves a great natural treatment for shingles.
• When you notice the development of shingles, begin consuming a lemon balm supplement as it has the ability to cure viral infections such as that caused by shingles.
• Applying peppermint oil or geranium oil has also proven useful for those with a severe shingles rash.

A lot of people may be looking for treatment for shingles in the eye. For this, it is best to consult a doctor rather than attempting to treat it yourself, as it is a risky attempt. Several sufferers of shingles have known to benefit from a variety of these methods of natural treatment. You may also try out these remedies to see the benefits for yourself. Do remember, that if you are consuming any herbs or vitamins, do consult a herbalist or a doctor respectively to ensure that it does not interfere with any other medication you may have been prescribed for other purposes, as it may react differently and worsen the condition.

Disclaimer: This Buzzle article is for informative purposes only and does not, in any way, intend to replace the advice of a medical expert.