Shingles is caused by herpes zoster, the same virus that causes chicken pox. Years after you've had chicken pox, the virus reactivates, causing a painful rash. Homeopathic medicine is based on the principle that "like cures like." To stimulate the immune system, infinitesimal amounts of a substance that would cause specific symptoms in a healthy person are given to a person exhibiting those same symptoms. Homeopathy is generally considered safe, but it is an alternative therapy, not intended to replace conventional medical care.
Rhus toxicodendron
Rhus toxicodendron is made from poison ivy plants. As a popular homeopathic remedy for skin conditions that feature itching and skin eruptions, it is often employed to treat shingles. The Natural Treatment Guide advises Rhus toxicodendron when shingles are not only painful but also itching intensely. According to Blue Cross Complementary and Alternative Medicine, Rhus toxicodendron is indicated in the treatment of shingles when the rash begins with many small blisters, is red and itchy, and is relieved by hot baths or wet compresses. Homeopaths consider Rhus toxicodendron a particularly good treatment for a patient who is restless or pacing.
Arsenicum album
Arsenicum album is made from arsenic. Although arsenic is poisonous, the minute amount and the successive dilutions of homeopathic preparation render it harmless. Arsenicum album is considered a polycrest, meaning that its indications are for every organ and system in the body, and that it can be used for both acute and chronic illnesses. It is also a constitutional remedy, meaning that it can address underlying issues of body and mind. Homeopaths consider Arsenicum album particularly useful for treating burning nerve pain. Natural Treatment Guide concurs, stating that shingles that feature burning sensations may be treated with Arsenicum album.
Ranunculus bulbosus
Homeopaths normally recommend Ranunculus bulbosus to treat inflammation and stabbing pain--two of the hallmarks of shingles--so it's not surprising that many consider it the gold standard of homeopathic shingles remedies. "The best homeopathic remedy for shingles is Ranculus bulbosus," asserts Stephen Messer, N.D., a naturopathic physician in Eugene, Ore. Ranunculus bulbosus, which is distilled from buttercups, is considered especially valuable in cases of shingles where the blisters are located on the ribcage, and are bluish in appearance.
Iris Versicolor
Iris versicolor is derived from the blue iris plant. Blue Shield Complementary and Alternative Medicine suggests Iris versicolor for shingles in which the eruptions appear in more profusion on the right side of the abdomen. Homeopaths recommend it especially in cases in which the shingles symptoms are accompanied by stomach problems.
Mezereum
Mezereum is derived from the spurge olive shrub native to northern Europe and Asia. Homeopaths consider it an effective treatment for suppurating and blistering skin disorders, and often employ it against shingles, particularly when the eruptions are bright red and worsened by heat. Another homeopathic indication for mezereum is that topical applications of cool relieve the blisters, but the patient is intolerant to cold temperatures.
Clematis Erectus
Clematis erectus, derived from the clematis plant, is homeopathically indicated for shingles that feature red, burning blisters. According to Blue Shield Complementary and Alternative Medicine, homeopaths utilize Clematis erectus for shingles in which the blisters are aggravated by cold water, and in which the condition worsens at night. If the patient has a tendency towards genito-urinary conditions, this is another indication that Clematis erectus might be the right remedy.
Apis Mellifera
Apis mellifera, made from the venom and body parts of bees, is a popular homeopathic treatment for itchy skin conditions with blisters and swellings. Blue Shield Complementary and Alternative Medicine notes that burning, stinging, swollen shingles eruptions are an indication for Apis mellifera, along with shingles that are aggravated by warmth and relieved by applications of cold.
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