Shingles Causes, Medicinal Herbs And Herbal Preparations
Shingles is a painful skin rash caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, which is the same virus that causes chickenpox.
Herbal remedies offer a natural and potentially effective approach to treating shingles, as they can help alleviate symptoms, reduce pain, and boost the immune system.
Certain herbs such as turmeric, ginger, and licorice root are commonly used to treat shingles, as they possess anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties that can help combat the virus and reduce inflammation.
Herbal preparations such as ointments, creams, and teas made from herbs like aloe vera, calendula, and echinacea can be applied topically or ingested to provide relief from shingles symptoms, and supplements like vitamin C and Echinacea may also be beneficial in supporting immune function.
What causes shingles?
The primary causes of shingles are the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, which is responsible for chickenpox, and a weakened immune system, typically due to aging or certain medical conditions.
Secondary causes of shingles can include stress, lack of sleep, and certain medications such as steroids, as these can further suppress the immune system.
Lifestyles that increase the chances of developing shingles include smoking, as it can weaken the immune system, and a sedentary lifestyle, which can contribute to stress and fatigue that exacerbate the immune system's decline.
Additionally, individuals with certain underlying medical conditions, such as diabetes or HIV/AIDS, are also at a higher risk of developing shingles due to their compromised immune systems.
What herbs heal shingles?
The medicinal herbs used to treat shingles are rich in bioactive compounds that provide anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antioxidant properties.
For example, the herb Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) contains withanolides, which have been shown to reduce the severity and duration of shingles by alleviating pain and inflammation.
Another example is the herb Turmeric (Curcuma longa), which contains curcumin, a compound with potent antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties that helps to reduce the severity of shingles symptoms.
The herb Calendula (Calendula officinalis) is also used, as it contains triterpenoids that have been shown to enhance wound healing and reduce inflammation associated with shingles.
What preparations treat shingles?
The herbal preparations used to treat shingles are often made into soothing teas, such as infusions of anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce pain and discomfort.
Decoctions of antiviral agents can be made into topical creams or ointments to apply directly to the affected area, promoting healing and reducing the duration of the outbreak.
Infusions with natural pain-relieving compounds can be consumed as a warm drink to alleviate discomfort and promote relaxation, while salves made from emollient-rich extracts can be applied to moisturize and calm the skin.
Additionally, herbal concoctions with analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties can be made into compresses or poultices to be applied to the affected area to aid in the healing process.
The articles in the following links discuss in detail the best herbal preparation used to treat shingles.