10 Best Herbal Capsules For Shingles

Herbal capsules for shingles are a natural remedy used to alleviate symptoms associated with this painful viral infection.

These capsules typically contain a blend of herbs such as turmeric, ginger, and garlic, which have anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties that help reduce pain, itching, and inflammation caused by shingles. For example, Capsicum annuum (hot pepper) capsules can help relieve nerve pain, while Valerian root capsules can promote relaxation and improve sleep quality.

By using these herbal capsules, individuals with shingles can experience improved symptoms management, reduced discomfort, and enhanced overall well-being, allowing them to resume their normal daily activities and improve their quality of life.

The following article describes in detail the most important capsules for shingles, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.

1. Curcuma longa

Turmeric capsules helps with shingles because of their potent anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties.

The active compound curcumin in turmeric has been shown to reduce inflammation, which is a hallmark symptom of shingles. Additionally, curcumin has antiviral properties that can help combat the varicella-zoster virus, which causes shingles.

By reducing inflammation and targeting the virus directly, turmeric capsules may help alleviate symptoms such as pain, itching, and rash associated with shingles, promoting faster recovery and reducing the risk of complications.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Curcuma longa capsules that help with shingles.

• Curcumin: It has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce the severity and duration of shingles symptoms by alleviating pain, inflammation, and nerve damage.
• Demethoxycurcumin: This compound has been shown to inhibit the replication of the varicella-zoster virus, the primary cause of shingles, and also has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which help to reduce the severity of symptoms.
• Turmerones: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce pain and inflammation associated with shingles, and also have been shown to have antiviral effects, which can help to inhibit the replication of the varicella-zoster virus.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of turmeric used to make capsules for shingles.

• Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes are the most commonly used part of Curcuma longa due to their high concentration of curcumin, a potent anti-inflammatory compound that helps alleviate shingles symptoms.
• Roots: Roots of Curcuma longa are also used to make capsules for shingles due to their rich content of curcuminoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help in reducing pain and inflammation.
• Stems: Stems of Curcuma longa contain a significant amount of curcumin, which is often extracted and used in capsule form to help manage shingles symptoms such as pain and inflammation.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric for shingles.

1. Gather 500g of dried curcuma longa roots and 500g of gelatin capsules 00 size.
2. Mix 250g of dried curcuma longa roots with 250g of water in a saucepan to create a decoction.
3. Boil the mixture for 30 minutes then let it cool to room temperature for 30 minutes.
4. Sift the cooled decoction through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a bowl.
5. Fill 500 gelatin capsules with 0.5g of sifted curcuma longa powder each and seal them tightly.

2. Hypericum perforatum

St John's Wort capsules helps with shingles because of its anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties.

The herb contains hyperforin, a compound that has been shown to reduce pain and inflammation associated with shingles. Additionally, St John's Wort has been found to inhibit the replication of the varicella-zoster virus, which causes shingles, reducing the severity and duration of the outbreak.

As a natural remedy, St John's Wort capsules may provide relief from the discomfort and itching associated with shingles, promoting faster healing and recovery.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hypericum perforatum capsules that help with shingles.

• Hyperforin: This phenolic compound has potent antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce the severity of shingles symptoms by inhibiting the replication of the virus and alleviating inflammation.
• Hypericin: This naphthodianthrone compound exhibits strong antiviral and immunomodulatory effects, which may contribute to its potential in treating shingles by enhancing the body's immune response and reducing viral load.
• Quercetin: This flavonoid has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, helping to mitigate the pain and discomfort associated with shingles by reducing inflammation and protecting against oxidative stress.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of st john's wort used to make capsules for shingles.

• Leaves: Used due to their high concentration of hypericin and hyperforin, which have antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Flowers: Used for their content of hypericin and hyperforin, as well as other compounds that may help alleviate shingles symptoms.
• Seeds: Used for their potential antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties, although their exact composition and efficacy are less studied than those of leaves and flowers.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic st john's wort for shingles.

1. Harvest 50g of fresh hypericum perforatum flowers with bright yellow petals and avoid over-drying.
2. Dry the flowers in a dark place at room temperature for 7-10 days to preserve potency.
3. Grind 20g of dried flowers into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or mill for 2 minutes.
4. Mix the powder with 50g of gelatin capsules in a bowl and fill 120 empty capsules.
5. Store the filled capsules in an airtight container in a cool dark place for up to 1 year.

3. Zingiber officinale

Ginger capsules helps with shingles because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the pain and discomfort associated with this viral infection.

The active compounds in ginger, such as gingerol and shogaol, have been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory chemicals in the body, thereby alleviating symptoms like itching, burning, and numbness.

Additionally, ginger's antioxidant properties may help boost the immune system, allowing it to fight off the underlying virus that causes shingles more effectively.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale capsules that help with shingles.

• 6-gingerol: This compound has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the pain and inflammation associated with shingles.
• Gingerol: Similar to 6-gingerol, gingerol has analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help alleviate the burning, itching, and pain of shingles.
• Shogaol: Shogaol has been shown to have antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help combat the herpes zoster virus that causes shingles, as well as reduce associated inflammation.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make capsules for shingles.

• Rhyzomes: They are the most commonly used part due to their rich content of active compounds like gingerol and shogaol, which have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
• Roots: The roots of Zingiber officinale are another commonly used part, as they contain bioactive compounds that can help alleviate shingles symptoms.
• Stems: The stems of the plant are sometimes used, as they may contain some of the same bioactive compounds found in the rhyzomes and roots, contributing to their potential therapeutic effects.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for shingles.

1. Harvest a sufficient amount of zingiber officinale rhizomes from a reputable supplier or your garden 1-2 pounds.
2. Clean the harvested rhizomes thoroughly to remove dirt and impurities under cold running water.
3. Dry the cleaned rhizomes in a low-temperature oven at 150°f for 2-3 hours.
4. Grind the dried rhizomes into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or spice mill 1 teaspoon.
5. Fill empty gelatin capsules with the powdered zingiber officinale and seal them securely.

4. Withania somnifera

Ashwagandha capsules helps with shingles because they contain a natural adaptogen that helps to reduce stress and anxiety, which are common triggers for shingle outbreaks.

The herb's anti-inflammatory properties also help to alleviate the painful rashes and blisters associated with shingles. Additionally, ashwagandha's antioxidant activity may help to boost the immune system, reducing the severity and duration of the condition.

By promoting overall well-being and calming the body's response to stress, ashwagandha capsules can provide relief from shingle symptoms and support a faster recovery.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Withania somnifera capsules that help with shingles.

• Withanolides: These steroidal lactones have anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, which can help reduce the severity and duration of shingles symptoms.
• Alkaloids: Specifically, Withanoside IV, an alkaloid found in Ashwagandha, has been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, which can help alleviate shingles-related pain and inflammation.
• Saponins: These compounds have been found to have antiviral properties, which can help inhibit the replication of the varicella-zoster virus (VZV) responsible for shingles, thus reducing the severity and duration of the condition.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of ashwagandha used to make capsules for shingles.

• Roots: They are the primary part used due to their high concentration of bioactive compounds, including withanolides, which have anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties beneficial for treating shingles.
• Leaves: They contain withanolides and other compounds that may help alleviate shingles symptoms, such as pain and inflammation.
• Seeds: They also contain withanolides and other compounds that may aid in reducing shingles symptoms and promoting healing.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ashwagandha for shingles.

1. Collect 250 grams of dried withania somnifera root powder and sift it to ensure uniform texture.
2. Weigh out 10 grams of the sifted powder and mix it with 30 grams of empty gelatin capsules.
3. Fill the capsules with the powder mixture and seal them with a gelatin capsule sealer or a heat sealer.
4. Label 60 capsules with the name of the supplement and the dosage instructions which is 1-2 capsules twice daily.
5. Store the capsules in an airtight container in a cool dry place and consume them within 12 months.

5. Camellia sinensis

Tea capsules helps with shingles because they contain potent herbs that soothe and calm the skin, reducing pain and discomfort associated with this painful condition.

The anti-inflammatory properties of these herbal teas help to alleviate swelling and redness, promoting faster healing and relief from itching and burning sensations.

Additionally, some herbal teas have antiviral properties that can help combat the underlying virus causing shingles, shortening the duration of the outbreak and reducing the risk of future occurrences.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Camellia sinensis capsules that help with shingles.

• Theaflavins: Theaflavins, a type of flavonoid, have been found to possess anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, which can help alleviate the painful symptoms and reduce the severity of shingles outbreaks.
• Catechins: Catechins, particularly epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), have been shown to have antiviral and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help combat the herpes zoster virus responsible for shingles and reduce inflammation and pain.
• Caffeine: Caffeine has been found to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which can help alleviate the pain and discomfort associated with shingles. However, it is essential to note that the amount of caffeine in Camellia sinensis capsules may be relatively low compared to tea.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of tea used to make capsules for shingles.

• Leaves: This is the most used part of Camellia sinensis as it is the primary source of tea leaves, often used to make capsules for antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits.
• Stems: The stems of Camellia sinensis are sometimes used to make capsules, which may contain more bioactive compounds than the leaves.
• Barks: The barks of Camellia sinensis are occasionally used to make capsules, possibly containing more antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds compared to other parts.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tea for shingles.

1. Harvest 100g of dried camellia sinensis leaves from a reputable source at an altitude of 500-800 meters.
2. Dry the camellia sinensis leaves further in a low-temperature oven at 50°c for 2 hours.
3. Grind 50g of the dried camellia sinensis leaves into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
4. Mix 5g of the powdered camellia sinensis with 95g of a suitable capsule filler material in a clean container.
5. Fill 100 empty gelatin capsules with the camellia sinensis mixture using a capsule filling machine.

6. Uncaria tomentosa

Cat's claw capsules helps with shingles because they contain compounds that have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

These active ingredients, such as alkaloids and flavonoids, work to reduce pain, inflammation, and itching associated with shingles, making them an effective natural remedy for managing symptoms.

Additionally, the capsules' antimicrobial properties help prevent secondary infections, promoting a faster recovery from this uncomfortable and often debilitating condition.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Uncaria tomentosa capsules that help with shingles.

• Oxindole alkaloids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties that may help reduce pain and inflammation associated with shingles.
• Isoliquiritigenin: ILG is a flavonoid that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antiviral activities, which may help alleviate symptoms of shingles, such as pain and skin lesions.
• Quinovic acid glycosides: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce pain and inflammation associated with shingles, as well as promote the healing of skin lesions.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of cat's claw used to make capsules for shingles.

• Roots: The roots of Uncaria tomentosa are rich in alkaloids, particularly isopteropodine, which is believed to have anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, making it effective in treating shingles.
• Barks: The barks of Uncaria tomentosa contain a compound called isopteropodine, which has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, helping to alleviate shingles symptoms.
• Leaves: The leaves of Uncaria tomentosa contain a compound called isopteropodine, which is believed to have anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, making it effective in treating shingles.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic cat's claw for shingles.

1. Grind 1-2 pounds of dried uncaria tomentosa root bark into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle for 10 minutes.
2. Mix the powder with 1-2% gelatin or vegetarian capsule filler in a bowl to create a uniform blend.
3. Add a few drops of glycerin to the powder mixture to prevent clumping and improve capsule filling process.
4. Use a capsule filling machine to fill 500-1000 vegetarian capsules with the powder mixture in 30 minutes.
5. Store the filled capsules in an airtight container in a cool dark place to maintain their potency for 2 years.

7. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Licorice capsules helps with shingles because they contain glycyrrhizin, a compound that has anti-inflammatory properties.

This compound reduces the inflammation and pain associated with shingles, allowing for faster healing and reduced discomfort. Additionally, licorice root has antiviral properties that help combat the virus responsible for causing shingles, reducing the severity and duration of the outbreak.

By incorporating herbal licorice capsules into your treatment plan, you can alleviate symptoms and promote a speedier recovery from this painful condition.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra capsules that help with shingles.

• Saponins: Saponins in Glycyrrhiza glabra have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate the pain and inflammation associated with shingles.
• Flavonoids: These compounds have been shown to possess antiviral and anti-inflammatory activities, which can help combat the herpes zoster virus that causes shingles.
• Glycyrrhetic acid: Glycyrrhetic acid has potent anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, which can help reduce the severity of shingles symptoms, including pain and skin lesions.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make capsules for shingles.

• Roots: Rich in glycyrrhizin, a compound that has anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties.
• Barks: May contain compounds that help in soothing and reducing inflammation associated with shingles.
• Leaves: May contain flavonoids and terpenoids that have antiviral and anti-inflammatory effects.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for shingles.

1. Harvest 30 grams of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots in the early morning to ensure optimal potency.
2. Dry the harvested roots at 50°c for 2 hours in a temperature-controlled drying oven.
3. Grind the dried roots into a fine powder using a coffee grinder for 2 minutes.
4. Mix the powdered roots with 200 grams of gelatin in a ratio of 1:5 to create a uniform blend.
5. Fill gelatin capsules with 500 milligrams of the herbal blend and seal them using a capsule filling machine.

8. Arctium lappa

Burdock capsules helps with shingles because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties.

The plant-based extracts in burdock capsules, such as arctiin and lappa, have been shown to reduce pain, inflammation, and itching associated with shingles. Additionally, burdock's antiviral compounds may help suppress the varicella-zoster virus that causes shingles, reducing the severity and duration of the outbreak.

As a natural remedy, burdock capsules offer a safe and effective way to alleviate symptoms and promote recovery from shingles.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Arctium lappa capsules that help with shingles.

• Inulin: A type of fructan that may help with pain relief by reducing inflammation and promoting the healing of skin lesions associated with shingles.
• Taraxasterol: A triterpene that may exhibit anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, helping to alleviate shingles symptoms such as itching, burning, and skin lesions.
• Arctigenin: A lignan that may have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antiviral effects, potentially contributing to the management of shingles symptoms and the reduction of viral replication.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of burdock used to make capsules for shingles.

• Roots: The roots are used due to their anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, which can help alleviate shingles symptoms.
• Seeds: The seeds are used due to their potential to reduce pain and inflammation associated with shingles.
• Leaves: The leaves are used due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe and calm shingles-related discomfort.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic burdock for shingles.

1. Harvest 1 cup of dried arctium lappa root and separate it into small pieces to ensure uniformity.
2. Grind 500 mg of dried arctium lappa root into a fine powder using a coffee grinder for 5 minutes.
3. Mix the powder with 100 mg of starch and 50 mg of silica to fill capsules evenly.
4. Fill 100 vegetable capsules with the powder mixture using a capsule filler machine in 30 minutes.
5. Store the filled capsules in a cool dry place away from direct sunlight for 6 months.

9. Ginkgo biloba

Maidenhair tree capsules helps with shingles because they contain a potent blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that work synergistically to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.

The capsules' anti-inflammatory properties help soothe irritated nerve endings, which is particularly effective in relieving the intense itching and burning sensations associated with shingles. Additionally, the capsules' antioxidant properties help boost the immune system, supporting the body's natural defense against the herpes zoster virus that causes shingles.

This holistic approach can provide relief from shingles symptoms and promote a faster recovery.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba capsules that help with shingles.

• Bilobalide: This triterpene has anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties that may help reduce pain and inflammation associated with shingles.
• Quercetin: A flavonoid phenolic compound, quercetin has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that may help alleviate symptoms of shingles such as pain and itching.
• Kaempferol: Another flavonoid phenolic compound, kaempferol has anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties that may help reduce the severity and duration of shingles symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make capsules for shingles.

• Leaves: Rich in flavonoids and terpenoids, which are believed to have anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties that may help alleviate shingles symptoms.
• Seeds: Contain a unique compound called bilobalide, which may help reduce pain and inflammation associated with shingles.
• Buds: Contain flavonoids and terpenoids that have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help soothe and calm shingles symptoms.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for shingles.

1. Harvest 100g of dried ginkgo biloba leaves from a trusted supplier or cultivate your own.
2. Dry the harvested leaves in a low-temperature oven at 50°c for 2 hours to remove moisture.
3. Grind the dried leaves into a fine powder using a high-speed grinder to increase bioavailability.
4. Mix 1g of the powdered ginkgo biloba with 1g of a neutral carrier like rice flour to facilitate capsule filling.
5. Fill 100 herbal capsules with the mixture using a manual capsule filler and store them in a cool dark place.

10. Valeriana officinalis

Valerian capsules helps with shingles because they contain a natural compound called valerenic acid, which has anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate the painful symptoms of shingles.

The herb also has a sedative effect on the nervous system, which can aid in relaxing and calming the body, reducing stress and anxiety that often exacerbates the condition.

Additionally, valerian's antispasmodic properties can help to reduce muscle spasms and itching associated with shingles, providing relief from discomfort and promoting a sense of well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Valeriana officinalis capsules that help with shingles.

• Valerenic acid: Valerenic acid has anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, which may help reduce the severity and duration of shingles symptoms, such as pain and inflammation.
• Valeranone: Valeranone has sedative and anxiolytic effects, which can help alleviate the stress and anxiety associated with shingles, promoting relaxation and reducing the risk of developing postherpetic neuralgia.
• Valeranone's precursor, isovaleric acid lactone: Isovaleric acid lactone has been shown to have antispasmodic and anticonvulsant properties, which may help reduce the intensity of shingles pain and prevent nerve damage.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of valerian used to make capsules for shingles.

• Roots: The roots are the most commonly used part due to their higher concentration of valerenic acid, which has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties that help alleviate shingles symptoms.
• Stems: The stems contain a moderate amount of valerenic acid, which contributes to their use in treating shingles, although they are less potent than the roots.
• Leaves: The leaves also contain valerenic acid, but to a lesser extent than the roots and stems, making them a less prominent but still used part in capsule formulations for shingles.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic valerian for shingles.

1. Harvest valeriana officinalis roots in the fall after the plant has completed its life cycle.
2. Clean and dry the roots thoroughly in a low-temperature oven at 105 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
3. Grind the dried roots into a fine powder using a high-quality grinder.
4. Fill empty gelatin capsules with a precise dosage of valeriana officinalis powder, typically 200-400 milligrams per capsule.
5. Store the herbal capsules in an airtight container in a cool, dark place to preserve their potency and shelf life.

What is the best combination of herbal capsules to use for shingles?

The best combination of herbal capsules that help with shingles is a blend of L-Lysine, Turmeric, and Ashwagandha.

L-Lysine, an amino acid, helps to reduce viral replication and soothe nerve pain. Turmeric, rich in curcumin, has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which aid in healing and reducing inflammation.

Ashwagandha, an adaptogenic herb, helps to reduce stress and promote overall well-being. Taking these capsules together may help alleviate symptoms, reduce pain, and accelerate the healing process.

It is essential to consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplements.

What ailments similar to shingles are treated with herbal capsules?

Ailments similar to shingles/capsules.html">shingles/capsules.html">shingles that are treated with herbal capsules are herpes zoster, postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), and acute viral ganglionitis.

Herbal capsules containing ingredients such as turmeric, ginger, and passionflower may help alleviate symptoms like pain, itching, and burning sensations associated with these conditions.

Additionally, herbs like St. John's Wort and lavender have anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe the skin and reduce discomfort.