10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Shingles

Herbal tinctures for shingles are liquid extracts made from plants and herbs that have anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and analgesic properties.

They help alleviate the symptoms of shingles by reducing pain, itching, and inflammation. For example, St. John's Wort and Lemon Balm tinctures can soothe the skin and reduce discomfort. Additionally, Echinacea and Goldenseal tinctures have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce swelling and redness.

By using these herbal tinctures, people with shingles can experience improved sleep quality, reduced pain levels, and a faster recovery time, ultimately improving their overall quality of life.

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

1. Curcuma longa

Turmeric tinctures helps with shingles because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties.

Curcumin, a compound found in turmeric, has been shown to reduce pain and discomfort associated with shingles by suppressing inflammation and alleviating nerve damage. The bioavailability of curcumin in tincture form allows it to quickly enter the bloodstream and target affected areas, providing rapid relief from symptoms such as burning, itching, and numbness.

Additionally, turmeric's antioxidant properties help protect against viral reactivation, promoting a faster recovery and reducing the risk of future outbreaks.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Curcumin: A polyphenolic compound with potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with shingles.
• Caryophyllene oxide: A sesquiterpene with demonstrated antiviral activity against herpes viruses, which may help inhibit the replication of the varicella-zoster virus responsible for shingles.
• Demethoxycurcumin: A curcuminoid with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce pain and inflammation, as well as promote wound healing and tissue repair in shingles lesions.

Parts Used

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

• Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of curcumin, a compound with anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties that can help alleviate shingles symptoms.
• Roots: Roots of Curcuma longa are also used to make tinctures, as they contain a significant amount of curcumin and other bioactive compounds that can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with shingles.
• Stems: Stems of Curcuma longa may be used to make tinctures, although they contain lower amounts of curcumin compared to rhyzomes and roots. However, they still possess some bioactive compounds that can contribute to the therapeutic effects of the tincture.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 100g of dried curcuma longa roots to ensure sufficient material for tincture production.
2. Grind the roots into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle for optimal extraction.
3. Combine 100g of the ground powder with 500ml of 40% ethanol in a glass container.
4. Steep the mixture for 2 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking.
5. Strain the liquid through cheesecloth and filter it using a coffee filter for clarity.

2. Zingiber officinale

Ginger tinctures helps with shingles because of its anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, which can help to alleviate the painful symptoms associated with this condition.

The tincture's active compounds, such as gingerols and shogaols, have been shown to reduce inflammation and relieve pain, making it a natural remedy for soothing the discomfort caused by shingles.

Additionally, ginger's antimicrobial properties may also help to combat the varicella-zoster virus that causes shingles, reducing the duration and severity of the outbreak.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Gingerols: These gingerols, particularly [6]-gingerol, have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce the pain and inflammation associated with shingles.
• Shogaols: Shogaols, such as [6]-shogaol, have analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects that can help alleviate the nerve pain and discomfort caused by shingles.
• Curcuminoids: Curcuminoids, including curcumin, have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help reduce the severity and duration of shingles symptoms, including pain and itching.

Parts Used

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

• Rhyzomes: They are the primary part used due to their high concentration of gingerols and shogaols, compounds with anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties that help alleviate shingles symptoms.
• Roots: The roots are also a significant source of these compounds, making them a common alternative to rhyzomes for tincture production.
• Barks: Some herbal preparations use the barks of the Zingiber officinale plant, which may contain smaller amounts of gingerols and other beneficial compounds that aid in soothing shingles symptoms.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1-2 pounds of fresh zingiber officinale roots with a high concentration of essential oils.
2. Chop the roots into small pieces using a sharp knife or a food processor to increase surface area.
3. Combine 1 pound of the chopped roots with 5 cups of 80-proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
4. Seal the jar and store it in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks, shaking it occasionally.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass jar, discarding the solids.

3. Hypericum perforatum

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

The tincture's active compounds, such as hyperforin and hypericin, have been shown to reduce inflammation and ease pain associated with shingles. Additionally, St John's Wort has antimicrobial properties that may help combat the varicella-zoster virus, which causes shingles, reducing the severity and duration of outbreaks.

By using St John's Wort tincture as a natural remedy, individuals can find relief from the discomfort and symptoms of shingles without relying on pharmaceutical medications.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Hyperforin: A phenolic compound that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, helping to reduce the pain and inflammation associated with shingles.
• Hypericin: A naphthodianthrone that has potent antiviral activity, which can help to combat the herpes zoster virus responsible for shingles.
• Quercetin: A flavonoid with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help to reduce the severity of shingles symptoms and promote wound healing.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: They contain flavonoids and other compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, making them effective in treating shingles.
• Flowers: Rich in hyperforin and hypericin, these compounds have antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects, which help alleviate shingles symptoms.
• Buds: Buds contain a high concentration of hyperforin and other active compounds, making them a valuable part for producing effective tinctures for shingles treatment.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest hypericum perforatum flowers and leaves in their blooming season for optimal potency.
2. Dry the harvested plant material in a dark place with good air circulation for 7 to 10 days.
3. Combine 250 grams of dried plant material with 950 milliliters of high-proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 4 to 6 weeks, shaking the jar daily.
5. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into another clean glass container, discarding the solids and storing the tincture in a dark place.

4. Salvia officinalis

Sage tinctures helps with shingles because of its anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, which can help reduce pain and discomfort associated with the condition.

The tannins present in sage have been shown to inhibit the replication of herpes viruses, including varicella-zoster virus, which causes shingles. Additionally, sage's antioxidant properties may help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, promoting a faster recovery from shingles outbreaks.

As a natural remedy, sage tinctures can provide relief from shingles symptoms without the use of pharmaceuticals.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Salvia officinalis tinctures that help with shingles.

• Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic compound that helps reduce inflammation and suppress the replication of herpes viruses, including the varicella-zoster virus responsible for shingles.
• Carnosic acid: A phenolic diterpene that exhibits antiviral activity against herpes viruses, possibly inhibiting the formation of viral particles and preventing the spread of the infection.
• Ursolic acid: A triterpenoid that has anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, which may help alleviate the painful symptoms and inflammation associated with shingles.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of sage used to make tinctures for shingles.

• Leaves: The leaves of Salvia officinalis are the primary part used to make tinctures for shingles due to their antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Stems: The stems of Salvia officinalis are also used to make tinctures for shingles, contributing to their antiviral and anti-inflammatory effects.
• Roots: The roots of Salvia officinalis are used to make tinctures for shingles, adding to their antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest the salvia officinalis leaves and flowers in the morning when they are at their highest moisture content.
2. Dry the harvested material in a well-ventilated area at 30-40 degrees celsius for 2-4 weeks.
3. Chop the dried salvia officinalis into small pieces and combine it with 80 proof vodka in a ratio of 1:2.
4. Steep the mixture in a clean glass jar for 2-4 weeks in a dark place at room temperature.
5. Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean container and discard the solids.

5. Lavandula angustifolia

English lavender tinctures helps with shingles because of its natural antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties.

The herb's active compounds, such as linalool and linalyl acetate, have been shown to inhibit the replication of viruses, including those that cause shingles. Additionally, lavender's calming effects can help alleviate the intense pain and discomfort associated with shingles, promoting relaxation and reducing stress.

By addressing both the viral and inflammatory aspects of the condition, English lavender tinctures may provide relief from the symptoms of shingles and support the body's natural healing process.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia tinctures that help with shingles.

• Linalool: A terpene that has anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, which can help reduce the severity and duration of shingles symptoms, such as pain and rash.
• Linalyl acetate: A terpene that has analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help alleviate the pain and discomfort associated with shingles.
• Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic compound with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the risk of postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) and promote wound healing in shingles patients.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make tinctures for shingles.

• Leaves: Used for their antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties to help soothe shingles symptoms.
• Flowers: Used for their antiseptic and antispasmodic properties to reduce pain and inflammation associated with shingles.
• Stems: Used for their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties to help alleviate shingles symptoms and promote healing.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1 part of fresh or dried lavandula angustifolia flowers at peak potency to ensure maximum effectiveness.
2. Dry the harvested flowers at 40°c for 2 hours to remove excess moisture and preserve quality.
3. Combine the dried flowers with 2 parts of 80% ethanol or vodka in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks, shaking the jar daily to facilitate extraction.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into another clean glass container, discard the solids and store in a dark place.

6. Mentha x piperita

Peppermint tinctures helps with shingles because of its analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral properties.

The menthol in peppermint oil has been shown to reduce pain and itching associated with shingles, providing relief from discomfort and promoting a sense of calm. Additionally, the antioxidant and antimicrobial properties of peppermint help to combat viral infections, potentially shortening the duration and severity of the shingles outbreak.

As a result, incorporating herbal peppermint tinctures into one's treatment plan can provide effective natural support for managing shingle symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita tinctures that help with shingles.

• Limonene: This monoterpene has anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce pain and inflammation associated with shingles.
• Rosmarinic acid: As a phenolic compound, rosmarinic acid has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which may help alleviate the symptoms of shingles, such as pain and itching.
• Menthol: This terpene has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which may provide relief from the pain and discomfort associated with shingles.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make tinctures for shingles.

• Leaves: The leaves are used due to their antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate shingles symptoms.
• Stems: The stems are used because they contain menthone, a compound that has been shown to have antiviral and analgesic effects, which can help reduce shingles pain.
• Roots: The roots are used for their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe and calm shingles-related skin irritation.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh mentha x piperita leaves and flowers in the morning after dew has evaporated for best quality.
2. Chop the fresh plant material into small pieces and measure out the correct dosage of 1 part plant to 2 parts solvent.
3. Combine the chopped plant material with 80 proof vodka or ethanol and steep in a clean glass jar for 2-6 weeks.
4. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into another clean glass container and discard the solids.
5. Store the tincture in a cool dark place and allow it to mature for 4-6 weeks before use.

7. Valeriana officinalis

Valerian tinctures helps with shingles because it has a natural ability to reduce inflammation, pain, and itching associated with the condition.

The antispasmodic properties of valerian root can help soothe and calm the nerves, which may become inflamed during an outbreak. Additionally, valerian's sedative effects can promote relaxation and reduce stress, common triggers for shingles symptoms.

By targeting these underlying factors, herbal valerian tinctures provide natural relief from the discomfort and distress caused by shingles, allowing individuals to better manage their condition and recover more comfortably.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Valerenic acid: Valerenic acid is a sesquiterpene that helps with shingles by reducing inflammation and pain through its action on the central nervous system, particularly the GABA receptors.
• Valeranone: Valeranone is a valerenic acid derivative that helps with shingles by exhibiting analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate the discomfort associated with shingles.
• Valeranone isomers: The isomers of valeranone, such as 7-hydroxyvaleranone, contribute to the antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties of Valeriana officinalis, which can help combat the herpes zoster virus that causes shingles.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: The roots are the primary source of valerenic acid, a key compound responsible for the plant's sedative and anti-inflammatory properties, making it effective in managing shingles symptoms.
• Stems: The stems are used for their flavonoid content, which contributes to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, helping to alleviate shingles pain and discomfort.
• Leaves: The leaves are used for their essential oil content, which contains valerenic acid and other compounds that can help reduce inflammation and promote relaxation, making it easier to manage shingles symptoms.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest a sufficient quantity of fresh valeriana officinalis roots weighing about 250 grams for tincture preparation.
2. Chop the harvested roots into small pieces allowing for maximum surface area for solvent absorption.
3. Combine the chopped valeriana officinalis roots with 70 percent ethanol as the solvent in a ratio of 1:2.
4. Allow the mixture to macerate for 2-3 weeks shaking the container daily to facilitate solvent penetration.
5. Strain the tincture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass container discarding the solids.

8. Passiflora incarnata

Maypop tinctures helps with shingles because they contain natural compounds that target the underlying viral infection causing the outbreak.

The antiviral properties of maypop have been shown to inhibit the replication of the varicella-zoster virus, which is responsible for shingles. Additionally, maypop's anti-inflammatory effects can help reduce pain and itching associated with shingles.

By addressing both the root cause of the infection and alleviating symptoms, maypop tinctures offer a holistic approach to managing shingles and promoting faster healing.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Passiflora incarnata tinctures that help with shingles.

• Harmane: It has a sedative effect, which can help alleviate the pain and discomfort associated with shingles by promoting relaxation and reducing inflammation.
• Flavonoids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, which can help reduce the severity and duration of shingles symptoms by inhibiting the replication of the varicella-zoster virus.
• Kaempferol: It has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help soothe and calm the skin, reducing the severity of shingles rash and promoting healing.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of maypop used to make tinctures for shingles.

• Leaves: They contain flavonoids, alkaloids, and other compounds that may help alleviate shingles symptoms.
• Roots: The roots have been traditionally used for their antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and antispasmodic properties, which may help alleviate shingles pain and inflammation.
• Fruits: The fruits contain flavonoids, vitamins, and minerals that may contribute to their potential therapeutic effects in soothing shingles symptoms.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh passiflora incarnata flowers and leaves in the early morning after the dew has evaporated.
2. Dry the harvested plant material in a low-temperature oven at 150 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
3. Combine 1 cup of dried plant material with 2 cups of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 weeks shaking the jar every day.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids.

9. Arctium lappa

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

The herb has been used traditionally to treat skin conditions, including rashes and itches associated with shingles. Burdock root contains inulin, which stimulates the immune system to fight off viral infections, reducing the severity and duration of shingles outbreaks. Additionally, burdock's antioxidant compounds help soothe irritated skin, promoting healing and reducing scarring.

By addressing both internal inflammation and external symptoms, burdock tinctures can provide relief from the discomfort and pain of shingles.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Inulin: Inulin, a type of fructan, has anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties that may help alleviate the pain and discomfort associated with shingles.
• Phenolic acids: These compounds have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which may help reduce the severity and duration of shingles symptoms.
• Alkaloids: Some alkaloids present in Arctium lappa have shown antiviral and immunomodulatory properties, which may help boost the body's immune response and combat the varicella-zoster virus responsible for shingles.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: The roots are the primary part used for treating shingles because they contain the highest concentration of bioactive compounds with anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties.
• Seeds: The seeds are used in tinctures for their antiviral properties, which can help alleviate the symptoms of shingles, such as pain and inflammation.
• Leaves: The leaves are also used for their antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the severity and duration of shingles outbreaks.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Gather 250 grams of dried arctium lappa roots and 500 milliliters of 80 proof vodka.
2. Combine the dried arctium lappa roots with vodka in a clean glass jar.
3. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 3 weeks shaking occasionally.
4. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into another clean glass container discarding the solids.
5. Store the tincture in a cool dark place for at least 4 weeks before using.

10. Sambucus nigra

Elder tinctures helps with shingles because it has antiviral properties that target the herpes zoster virus, reducing its replication and spread.

The tincture's anti-inflammatory compounds also help soothe itching, burning, and pain associated with shingles. Additionally, elder tincture's immune-boosting abilities support the body's natural defenses against viral infections, promoting faster recovery and reduced risk of future outbreaks.

By addressing the root causes of shingles, elder tinctures provide a holistic approach to managing this often debilitating condition.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Flavonoids: These plant compounds help to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain associated with shingles by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory chemicals.
• Tannins: Tannins in Sambucus nigra have antiviral properties that can help to combat the herpes zoster virus responsible for shingles, thereby reducing the severity and duration of symptoms.
• Ellagic acid: This polyphenolic compound has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can help to soothe and calm the skin, reducing the discomfort and pain associated with shingles.

Parts Used

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

• Flowers: They are used due to their antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties, which help alleviate shingles symptoms.
• Leaves: They are used because of their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which aid in reducing pain and inflammation associated with shingles.
• Buds: They are used due to their antiviral properties, which help combat the varicella-zoster virus that causes shingles.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh sambucus nigra flowers and leaves in late spring when they are in full bloom.
2. Clean and dry the sambucus nigra flowers and leaves thoroughly to prevent contamination.
3. Combine 1 part sambucus nigra flowers and leaves with 2 parts 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 6 to 8 weeks shaking the jar daily.
5. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids.

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

The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with shingles is often a blend of Calendula, Echinacea, and L-Lysine.

Calendula tincture soothes and calms the skin, reducing inflammation and promoting wound healing. Echinacea tincture supports the immune system, helping to combat the underlying viral infection that causes shingles. L-Lysine tincture, an amino acid, has antiviral properties that inhibit the replication of the herpes virus, reducing symptoms and promoting recovery.

Together, these tinctures can provide relief and accelerate healing for shingles sufferers.

What ailments similar to shingles are treated with herbal tinctures?

Ailments similar to shingles/tinctures.html">shingles/tinctures.html">shingles that are treated with herbal tinctures are postherpetic neuralgia, herpes simplex, and genital herpes.

Herbal tinctures such as those made from St. John's Wort, lemon balm, and chamomile have been traditionally used to soothe and calm the pain and discomfort associated with these conditions.

These herbs possess anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties that can help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms.