10 Best Herbal Decoctions For Shingles

Herbal decoctions for shingles are liquid extracts made by steeping herbs in hot water, which can provide relief from the painful symptoms of shingles.

These decoctions help by reducing inflammation, soothing itching and burning sensations, and boosting the immune system to combat the virus. Examples of herbal decoctions that have been used to alleviate shingles symptoms include Calendula tea, which soothes skin irritations, and St. John's Wort tea, which has anti-inflammatory properties.

By using these decoctions, individuals can reduce their reliance on pharmaceuticals, manage pain more effectively, and improve their overall quality of life.

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

1. Aloe vera

Aloe decoctions helps with shingles because they possess potent anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties.

The aloe vera gel contains acemannan, a complex carbohydrate that stimulates the immune system to produce cytokines, which help combat viral replication. Additionally, aloe's soothing and moisturizing effects can alleviate the intense itching and burning associated with shingles rash, promoting healing and reducing discomfort.

As a result, herbal aloe decoctions have been traditionally used to relieve symptoms and accelerate recovery from shingles outbreaks.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera decoctions that help with shingles.

• Aldehydes: These compounds, particularly cinnamaldehyde and benzaldehyde, have anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties that help reduce the severity and duration of shingles symptoms.
• Phenolic acids: Aloe vera contains various phenolic acids, including ferulic and vanillic acids, which exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities that may help alleviate shingles-related pain and inflammation.
• Saponins: Aloe vera saponins, such as aloin and aloe-emodin, have been shown to possess antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help combat the herpes zoster virus responsible for shingles and reduce associated pain and discomfort.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make decoctions for shingles.

• Leaves: The leaves contain aloe-emodin, a compound that has anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, making them effective in soothing shingles pain and reducing inflammation.
• Gel from leaves: The clear gel extracted from the leaves of Aloe vera is rich in vitamins A, C, and E, which help to accelerate the healing process and reduce the severity of shingles symptoms.
• Aloe vera extract from leaves: The extract from the leaves of Aloe vera contains compounds like aloin and aloe-emodin, which have been shown to have antiviral and anti-inflammatory effects, helping to alleviate shingles pain and reduce the risk of complications.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Choose fresh aloe vera leaves with a thick green skin and no signs of brown or yellow spots.
2. Cut 200g of the leaves into small pieces and rinse them in cold water for 10 minutes.
3. Soak the aloe vera pieces in 1 liter of boiling water for 20 minutes to soften them.
4. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
5. Allow the decoction to cool and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

2. Curcuma longa

Turmeric decoctions helps with shingles because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties.

The curcumin in turmeric has been shown to reduce inflammation, pain, and itching associated with shingles, while also targeting the varicella-zoster virus that causes the condition. Additionally, turmeric's antioxidant properties help to boost the immune system, reducing the severity and duration of symptoms.

By incorporating turmeric decoctions into their treatment plan, individuals with shingles may experience relief from discomfort and a faster recovery time.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Curcumin: Curcumin has potent anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties that help reduce the severity of shingles symptoms, including pain and rash.
• Demethoxycurcumin: DMC exhibits antiviral activity against the varicella-zoster virus, the primary cause of shingles, helping to inhibit the spread of the virus and alleviate symptoms.
• Beta-caryophyllene: Beta-caryophyllene has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help reduce pain and inflammation associated with shingles, promoting faster recovery and healing.

Parts Used

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

• Rhyzomes: They are the most commonly used part, as they contain high concentrations of curcumin, a bioactive compound with anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties.
• Roots: They also contain curcumin, and their decoctions are used to help alleviate the symptoms of shingles, such as pain and inflammation.
• Stems: The stems of Curcuma longa are sometimes used to make decoctions, as they may also contain some bioactive compounds that help to reduce the severity of shingles symptoms.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Select 1-2 teaspoons of dried curcuma longa root powder and store it in an airtight container.
2. Combine 1 cup of boiling water with 1 teaspoon of the root powder in a heat-resistant cup.
3. Steep the mixture for 5-10 minutes allowing the curcuma longa to infuse its medicinal properties.
4. Strain the liquid through a fine mesh filter into a cup discarding the solids.
5. Drink the curcuma longa decoction immediately while it is still warm and fragrant.

3. Zingiber officinale

Ginger decoctions helps with shingles because they possess anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate the discomfort and pain associated with this condition.

The decoction's ability to reduce inflammation may also help soothe itchy blisters, making them less bothersome for those affected. Additionally, ginger has been shown to have antiviral properties, which may aid in reducing the severity of shingles by suppressing the replication of the virus that causes it.

This natural approach can provide relief and support during the healing process.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Gingerols: Gingerols, specifically [6]-gingerol and [8]-gingerol, have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that help alleviate the pain and discomfort associated with shingles.
• Shogaols: Shogaols, particularly [6]-shogaol and [8]-shogaol, exhibit anti-inflammatory and antiviral activities that help reduce the severity of shingles symptoms and promote faster healing.
• Zingibain: Zingibain, a proteolytic enzyme found in ginger, has anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties that help regulate the immune response and reduce inflammation, which can contribute to the development and severity of shingles.

Parts Used

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

• Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes: thick, underground stems that store nutrients, which are used for their anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties to help alleviate shingles symptoms.
• Roots: Roots: the underground part of the plant that contains bioactive compounds, which are used to reduce pain, inflammation, and itching associated with shingles.
• Leaves: Leaves: the green, flat parts of the plant that contain medicinal properties, which are used to help soothe and calm the skin affected by shingles.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh zingiber officinale roots with a total weight of 10-15 grams for decoction preparation.
2. Wash the harvested roots in cold running water for 2-3 minutes to remove dirt and debris.
3. Peel the roots using a vegetable peeler and slice them thinly into 2-inch pieces.
4. Combine the sliced roots in a saucepan with 1 liter of distilled water and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat and simmer the decoction for 5-10 minutes before straining and serving.

4. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Licorice decoctions helps with shingles because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which can alleviate the painful symptoms associated with shingles.

The licorice root contains a compound called glycyrrhizin, which has been shown to reduce inflammation and swelling in the body. Additionally, licorice decoctions have antiviral properties that may help combat the varicella-zoster virus, which causes shingles.

By reducing pain and inflammation, licorice decoctions can provide relief and comfort to individuals suffering from shingles.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Licorice saponins: These triterpenoid saponins possess anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, which may help reduce the severity of shingles symptoms and alleviate pain.
• Glycyrrhizin: This triterpenoid compound has been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which may help regulate the immune response and alleviate shingles symptoms such as pain and itching.
• Flavonoids: These compounds have been found to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation associated with shingles, thereby alleviating symptoms such as pain and rash.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: The roots of Glycyrrhiza glabra are commonly used to make decoctions for shingles due to their anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce pain and inflammation associated with the condition.
• Leaves: The leaves of Glycyrrhiza glabra are used to make decoctions for shingles due to their antiviral properties, which help combat the underlying viral infections that can cause the condition.
• Barks: The barks of Glycyrrhiza glabra are used to make decoctions for shingles due to their antimicrobial properties, which help prevent secondary infections and promote wound healing.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Gather 30-60 grams of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots and store them in an airtight container for later use.
2. Measure out 1-2 teaspoons of the dried roots and place them in a heat-resistant cup or teapot.
3. Heat 1 liter of water to 100 degrees celsius and pour it over the roots in the cup or teapot.
4. Steep the mixture for 10-15 minutes then strain it to remove the solids.
5. Store the decoction in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

5. Sambucus nigra

Elder decoctions helps with shingles because of its antiviral properties, which can help combat the varicella-zoster virus that causes the condition.

The decoction's anti-inflammatory compounds can also reduce pain and itching associated with shingles. Additionally, elder has been shown to boost the immune system, allowing the body to better fight off infections.

By taking an elder decoction, individuals may experience a reduction in symptoms and faster recovery from shingles.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Sambucus nigra decoctions that help with shingles.

• Flavonoids: Flavonoids, such as quercetin and kaempferol, have anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties that can help alleviate shingles symptoms by reducing inflammation and suppressing viral replication.
• Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, including chlorogenic acid and caffeic acid, exhibit antiviral and anti-inflammatory activities that may help combat shingles by inhibiting viral replication and reducing inflammation.
• Tannins: Tannins, such as gallic acid, possess antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate shingles symptoms by inhibiting viral replication and reducing inflammation, as well as promoting wound healing and tissue repair.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of elder used to make decoctions for shingles.

• Flowers: They are used due to their antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties, which help alleviate shingles symptoms.
• Leaves: They are used due to their antiseptic and antiviral properties, which help reduce the severity of shingles outbreaks.
• Fruits (berries): They are used due to their antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as their high content of vitamin C, which helps boost the immune system and reduce shingles symptoms.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh sambucus nigra flowers and leaves by cutting them in the morning when they are still dewy.
2. Dry the harvested flowers and leaves in a warm dark place for 1 to 2 weeks.
3. Combine 2 to 4 grams of dried flowers and leaves with 250 milliliters of water in a saucepan.
4. Boil the mixture for 5 to 10 minutes then reduce heat and simmer for an additional 10 to 20 minutes.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.

6. Ulmus rubra

Slippery elm decoctions helps with shingles because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which can soothe and calm the affected skin.

The mucilage present in slippery elm coats and protects the skin, reducing itching, burning, and discomfort associated with shingles. Additionally, slippery elm's demulcent action helps to reduce inflammation and promote healing by creating a protective barrier that shields the skin from further irritation, allowing it to recover naturally.

This natural remedy can provide relief from the painful symptoms of shingles, promoting a smoother recovery process.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ulmus rubra decoctions that help with shingles.

• Tannins: Tannins in Ulmus rubra decoctions may help with shingles by reducing inflammation and promoting the healing of skin lesions.
• Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, such as gallic acid, present in Ulmus rubra may exhibit antiviral properties, which could help combat the varicella-zoster virus responsible for shingles.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids, including quercetin, found in Ulmus rubra decoctions may possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which could aid in reducing the severity and duration of shingles symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of slippery elm used to make decoctions for shingles.

• Barks: The barks are used to make decoctions for shingles due to their astringent and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Roots: The roots are used to make decoctions for shingles due to their ability to reduce inflammation and promote wound healing.
• Leaves: The leaves are used to make decoctions for shingles due to their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which help to soothe and protect the affected skin.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 20 grams of fresh ulmus rubra bark and 30 grams of fresh ulmus rubra leaves in morning.
2. Chop the fresh ulmus rubra bark and leaves into smaller pieces for easier infusion.
3. Combine the chopped ulmus rubra bark and leaves with 2 liters of boiling water in a large pot.
4. Steep the mixture for 30 minutes to allow the active compounds to infuse into the water.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth and discard the solids to obtain the final product.

7. Althaea officinalis

Marshmallow decoctions helps with shingles because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which soothe and calm irritated skin and nerves.

The mucilages in marshmallow root have a protective effect on the skin, reducing pain, itching, and blistering associated with shingles. Additionally, marshmallow's antiviral activity may help combat the virus that causes shingles, reducing the severity of symptoms and duration of outbreaks.

By incorporating herbal marshmallow decoctions into their treatment routine, individuals with shingles can experience faster healing, reduced discomfort, and a more rapid recovery.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Althaea officinalis decoctions that help with shingles.

• Mucilages: Mucilages help with shingles by soothing and protecting the skin, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with the condition.
• Phenolics: Phenolics have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to alleviate pain and reduce the severity of shingles symptoms.
• Triterpenoid saponins: Triterpenoid saponins have anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, which can help to reduce the duration and severity of shingles symptoms, as well as prevent the development of postherpetic neuralgia (PHN).

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of marshmallow used to make decoctions for shingles.

• Roots: The roots are the most commonly used part due to their high mucilage content, which helps soothe and protect the skin.
• Leaves: The leaves contain bioactive compounds that help reduce inflammation and promote wound healing.
• Barks: The barks of Althaea officinalis have been traditionally used to treat skin conditions, including shingles, due to their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Measure out 2-4 teaspoons of dried root material and place it in a clean glass container.
2. Combine the measured root material with 1 quart of boiling water in a saucepan.
3. Reduce heat to a simmer and allow the mixture to steep for 5-10 minutes.
4. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine mesh sieve into another container.
5. Discard the solids and store the liquid decoction in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

8. Calendula officinalis

Pot marigold decoctions helps with shingles because it has been traditionally used to reduce inflammation, promote healing, and soothe skin irritations.

The decoction's antiviral properties may also help combat the varicella-zoster virus that causes shingles. Additionally, pot marigold contains flavonoids and terpenes that have potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can aid in reducing the pain, itching, and discomfort associated with shingles outbreaks.

By incorporating pot marigold decoctions into a treatment plan, individuals may experience faster recovery and improved overall well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis decoctions that help with shingles.

• Triterpenoids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, which can help reduce the severity and duration of shingles symptoms, such as pain and rash.
• Carotenoids: These antioxidants can help protect the skin from damage and reduce the risk of postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), a common complication of shingles.
• Flavonoids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, which can help alleviate shingles symptoms, such as pain, itching, and skin lesions, by reducing inflammation and preventing viral replication.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make decoctions for shingles.

• Flowers: The flowers of Calendula officinalis are commonly used to make decoctions for shingles due to their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
• Leaves: The leaves of Calendula officinalis are used to make decoctions for shingles because they contain compounds that help to reduce pain and inflammation.
• Roots: The roots of Calendula officinalis are used to make decoctions for shingles due to their ability to stimulate the immune system and reduce inflammation.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh flowers from mature plants in full bloom at peak oil production time.
2. Dry the flowers in a warm place or using a food dehydrator at 95 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
3. Combine 1 ounce of dried flowers with 1 quart of boiling water in a non-reactive pot.
4. Reduce heat and simmer the mixture for 20 to 30 minutes to release the active compounds.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean container to obtain the decoction.

9. Hypericum perforatum

St John's wort decoctions helps with shingles because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties.

The decoction's flavonoids and hyperforin work synergistically to reduce nerve pain, itching, and inflammation associated with shingles. Additionally, St John's wort has been shown to inhibit the replication of the herpes virus that causes shingles, thereby accelerating the healing process and reducing the duration of symptoms.

As a natural remedy, St John's wort decoctions offer a gentle and non-invasive approach to managing shingles, providing relief without harsh chemicals or pharmaceuticals.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Hyperforin: This terpene has potent anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, which help reduce the severity and duration of shingles symptoms, such as pain and rash.
• Hypericin: This phenolic compound has antiviral activity, particularly against the varicella-zoster virus that causes shingles, thereby reducing viral replication and alleviating symptoms.
• Quercetin: This flavonoid has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help reduce pain, inflammation, and oxidative stress associated with shingles, promoting faster recovery.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: Used due to their high content of flavonoids and phenolic acids, which have anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties.
• Flowers: Utilized for their antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate shingles symptoms.
• Roots: Employed for their bioactive compounds, including hypericin and hyperforin, which have been shown to possess antiviral and anti-inflammatory effects.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Measure out 25 to 30 grams of dried hypericum perforatum flowers for a decoction.
2. Combine the measured hypericum perforatum flowers with 500 milliliters of water in a saucepan.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat then reduce the heat to a simmer.
4. Allow the decoction to steep for 10 to 15 minutes then strain the liquid.
5. Store the resulting herbal decoction in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

10. Hydrastis canadensis

Goldenseal decoctions helps with shingles because of its potent antimicrobial properties, which target the varicella-zoster virus that causes shingles.

The active compounds in goldenseal, such as berberine and hyrcin, have been shown to inhibit viral replication and reduce inflammation.

By reducing the severity and duration of shingles outbreaks, goldenseal decoctions can provide relief from painful rashes and blisters, helping to speed up the healing process and prevent further complications.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hydrastis canadensis decoctions that help with shingles.

• Berberine: A phenolic alkaloid that has anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, which may help reduce pain and inflammation associated with shingles.
• Hydrastine: An alkaloid that has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help prevent secondary infections and reduce the severity of shingles symptoms.
• Gallic acid: A phenolic acid that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce pain, inflammation, and oxidative stress associated with shingles.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of goldenseal used to make decoctions for shingles.

• Roots: Used due to its rich content of berberine, a compound with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Rhyzomes: Used for its ability to stimulate the immune system and reduce inflammation.
• Leaves: Used for its antiviral and antimicrobial properties, which help to combat the virus that causes shingles.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Gather 1 part hydrastis canadensis roots dried and crushed into a fine powder for decoction.
2. Weigh and measure 1 teaspoon of hydrastis canadensis per 8 ounces of water for the decoction.
3. Combine the measured hydrastis canadensis powder with 8 ounces of boiling water in a saucepan.
4. Simmer the decoction for 3 to 5 minutes over low heat then turn off heat.
5. Strain the decoction through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup and discard the solids.

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

The best combination of herbal decoctions that help with shingles is a blend of calendula, aloe vera, and St. John's Wort.

Calendula's anti-inflammatory properties can soothe the skin, while aloe vera's cooling effects can reduce itching and pain. St. John's Wort, rich in hyperforin, can help reduce the severity and duration of shingles. Together, these herbs may promote healing, reduce discomfort, and alleviate symptoms associated with shingles, such as skin lesions and nerve pain.

This natural combination can be consumed as a tea or applied topically.

What ailments similar to shingles are treated with herbal decoctions?

Ailments similar to shingles/decoctions.html">shingles/decoctions.html">shingles that are treated with herbal decoctions are various skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and herpes.

Herbal decoctions made from plants like calendula, turmeric, and St. John's Wort have anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties that can help soothe and calm these symptoms.

Additionally, decoctions of herbs like aloe vera and chamomile can aid in wound healing and reduce discomfort associated with shingles-like conditions.