Chickenpox: Causes, Medicinal Herbs and Herbal Preparations

Chickenpox, also known as varicella, is a highly contagious viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus, characterized by a distinctive rash of itchy, red blisters that crust over and scab.

It spreads through respiratory droplets and direct contact with an infected person, often affecting children under the age of 12. Chickenpox can lead to complications such as pneumonia, encephalitis, and bacterial infections. Herbal remedies like calendula, aloe vera, and oatmeal can provide relief from itching and inflammation, while preparations like ointments and compresses can help soothe the skin.

However, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional before using medicinal herbs, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have underlying health conditions, as some herbs can interact with medications or exacerbate certain health issues.

This article explains in detail what are the causes of chickenpox, what medicinal herbs to use to relieve this problem and how to prepare these herbs to get the best results.

What are the main causes of chickenpox?

The main causes of chickenpox are the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), a highly contagious and airborne pathogen that primarily affects children under the age of 10.

Chickenpox is spread through respiratory droplets, direct contact with rash lesions, and contaminated surfaces, with the highest risk of transmission occurring when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The virus typically enters the body through the respiratory tract and then travels to the lymph nodes, where it replicates and eventually causes the characteristic rash. People with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS or taking immunosuppressive medications, are at higher risk of developing severe complications from chickenpox.

In most cases, chickenpox is caused by the primary infection of VZV, although in rare instances, it can be triggered by the reactivation of latent VZV in individuals who have previously had the infection.

• Varicella-Zoster Virus: Varicella-Zoster Virus is the primary cause of chickenpox, a highly contagious and infectious disease caused by the reactivation or initial infection of this virus, which leads to the development of the characteristic itchy rash and fever.
• Genetic Predisposition: Genetic predisposition plays a significant role in the development of chickenpox, as individuals with weakened immune systems, family history of the disease, or genetic mutations are more susceptible to infection and severe symptoms.
• Weakened Immune System: A weakened immune system, often due to underlying medical conditions, such as HIV/AIDS, cancer, or taking immunosuppressive medications, increases the risk of developing chickenpox and experiencing more severe symptoms.
• Malnutrition: Malnutrition, particularly a lack of essential vitamins and minerals, can impair the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to chickenpox and its complications.
• Stress: Stress can weaken the immune system, making individuals more vulnerable to chickenpox and its symptoms, although the relationship between stress and chickenpox is still being researched.
• Environmental Factors: Environmental factors, such as exposure to secondhand smoke, poor air quality, and lack of sunlight, can contribute to the development of chickenpox in individuals with weakened immune systems.

What are the primary medicinal plants used for chickenpox?

The main medicinal herbs used for chickenpox are Echinacea purpurea, Aloe vera, Calendula officinalis, Zingiber officinale, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Melaleuca alternifolia, Vaccinium myrtillus, Allium sativum, Echinacea angustifolia, Avena sativa.

Echinacea purpurea has anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties that help to boost the immune system and reduce the severity of the symptoms. Aloe vera and Calendula officinalis have soothing and antiseptic properties that can help to calm the skin and prevent infection, while Zingiber officinale has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce fever and alleviate pain. Glycyrrhiza glabra has antiviral properties that can help to prevent the spread of the virus, while Melaleuca alternifolia and Vaccinium myrtillus have antimicrobial properties that can help to combat secondary infections.

Allium sativum and Echinacea angustifolia have antiviral properties that can help to boost the immune system, while Avena sativa can help to reduce stress and promote a restful sleep.

• Echinacea purpurea: Echinacea purpurea may help alleviate chickenpox symptoms by stimulating the immune system and increasing the production of white blood cells, which can aid in the body's natural fight against the varicella-zoster virus.
• Aloe vera: Aloe vera may help soothe the skin and reduce inflammation associated with chickenpox, thereby providing temporary relief from discomfort and promoting skin healing.
• Calendula officinalis: Calendula officinalis may aid in the healing of skin lesions caused by chickenpox due to its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help reduce the risk of infection and promote wound closure.
• Zingiber officinale: Zingiber officinale, also known as ginger, may help alleviate nausea and vomiting associated with chickenpox, thereby reducing the risk of dehydration and promoting overall comfort.
• Glycyrrhiza glabra: Glycyrrhiza glabra, also known as licorice root, may exhibit anti-inflammatory properties that can aid in the reduction of inflammation and skin irritation associated with chickenpox.
• Melaleuca alternifolia: Melaleuca alternifolia, also known as tea tree oil, may exhibit antimicrobial properties that can help reduce the risk of infection and promote wound healing associated with chickenpox.
• Vaccinium myrtillus: Vaccinium myrtillus, also known as bilberry, may exhibit antioxidant properties that can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation associated with chickenpox, thereby promoting overall health and well-being.
• Allium sativum: Allium sativum, also known as garlic, may exhibit antimicrobial properties that can help reduce the risk of infection and promote wound healing associated with chickenpox.
• Echinacea angustifolia: Echinacea angustifolia may help stimulate the immune system and increase the production of white blood cells, which can aid in the body's natural fight against the varicella-zoster virus, thereby alleviating symptoms of chickenpox.
• Avena sativa: Avena sativa, also known as oat straw, may help reduce stress and promote relaxation, which can aid in alleviating anxiety and discomfort associated with chickenpox.

What are the main herbal preparations used for chickenpox?

The main herbal preparations used for chickenpox are Decoction, Tincture, Salve, Ointment, Cream, Capsule, Poultice, Gel, Suppository, Elixir.

Decoction of calendula and plantain is used to soothe itchy skin, while Tincture of calendula and tea tree oil is applied topically to reduce inflammation and prevent infection. Salve and Ointment of aloe vera and chamomile are used to calm and moisturize the skin, while Cream of vitamin E and aloe vera is applied to promote skin healing. Capsule of zinc and vitamin C is taken orally to boost the immune system and reduce the severity of symptoms.

Poultice, Gel, Suppository, and Elixir of herbal extracts such as turmeric and ginger have anti-inflammatory properties and are used to reduce fever and relieve pain.

• Decoction: A decoction of Calendula officinalis, rich in flavonoids and phenolic acids, helps to reduce inflammation and promote wound healing, which aids in the management of chickenpox symptoms.
• Tincture: A tincture of Echinacea purpurea, containing alkylamides and caffeic acid, stimulates the immune system and enhances the body's natural defense against viral infections, such as chickenpox.
• Salve: A salve of Plantago lanceolata, rich in allantoin, soothes and protects the skin, reducing discomfort and promoting the healing of chickenpox lesions.
• Ointment: An ointment of Aloe barbadensis, containing aloe-emodin and aloin, has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that aid in reducing the severity and duration of chickenpox symptoms.
• Cream: A cream of Saponaria officinalis, rich in saponins and flavonoids, helps to reduce inflammation and promote wound healing, providing relief from chickenpox-related skin discomfort.
• Capsule: A capsule of Withania somnifera, containing withanolides and alkaloids, supports the immune system and enhances the body's natural defense against viral infections, such as chickenpox.
• Poultice: A poultice of Comfrey (Symphytum officinale), rich in allantoin and rosmarinic acid, promotes wound healing and reduces inflammation, providing relief from chickenpox-related skin lesions.
• Gel: A gel of Aloe barbadensis, containing aloe-emodin and aloin, has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that aid in reducing the severity and duration of chickenpox symptoms.
• Suppository: A suppository of Calendula officinalis, rich in flavonoids and phenolic acids, reduces inflammation and promotes wound healing, providing relief from chickenpox-related discomfort in the anal and genital areas.
• Elixir: An elixir of Echinacea purpurea, containing alkylamides and caffeic acid, stimulates the immune system and enhances the body's natural defense against viral infections, such as chickenpox, when taken orally.