Shingles is caused by the herpes zoster virus--the same virus that causes chicken pox. Small blisters form along a nerve path and produce pain, itching and sometimes stiffness in the affected area. Some people elect to take anti-viral medications to treat shingles, which may reduce symptoms, but do not cure the virus. There are a number of ways to treat the symptoms of shingles naturally to reduce pain and itching. Herbal remedies may also help treat shingles naturally.
Step 1
Take a warm, oatmeal bath to ease the itching caused by shingles. Sprinkle around 1 cup of uncooked oatmeal into the bathtub. If you do not have oatmeal, baking soda will produce the same, soothing effect.
Step 2
Apply a compress directly to the blistered area to alleviate pain and itching. Combine 1 cup of cool water with 1 1/2 tsp. of white vinegar. Dip a clean washcloth into the mixture, squeeze out the excess water and gently press the washcloth to the blistered skin.
Step 3
Wash any blisters caused by shingles daily with a mild soap to prevent further infection. Keep the pocked areas uncovered after washing.
Step 4
Apply St. John's Wort oil directly to any blisters to soothe nerve pain caused by shingles. Topical forms of this herb are commonly used to treat skin wounds and burns.
Step 5
Consult with your doctor to see whether you could benefit from taking an oral form of St. John's Wort or echinacea. St. John's Wort is used to treat depression, insomnia and nerve pain, but should not be taken by people who use hormonal birth control or blood-thinning medications. Echinacea may strengthen your already-compromised immune system.
Things You'll Need
- Oatmeal
- Baking soda
- White vinegar
- Washcloth
- Mild soap
- St. Johns Wort
- Echinacea
