Shingles, medically known as herpes zoster, is an infection that results in a painful rash, most commonly on the back or chest. Shingles is caused by the varicella-zoster virus -- the same virus that causes chickenpox. The rash usually disappears within a few weeks, but the burning and shooting pain may linger for weeks, months or years. Severe complications are uncommon and can include vision loss and brain inflammation. Certain foods and herbs may be helpful in preventing shingles. Before using food and herbs medicinally, consult with a qualified health care provider for personalized advice on forms, dosage and safety considerations.
Lysine
Lysine, also called l-lysine, is an amino acid -- a building block of protein -- that may be helpful for preventing shingles. According to Drs. Michael Murray and Joseph Pizzorno, naturopathic physicians and authors of the "Textbook of Natural Medicine," lysine has antiviral effects because of its ability to antagonize another amino acid, arginine. Arginine is required for the replication of the herpes virus. The varicella-zoster virus that causes shingles is a member of the Herpes family. By countering arginine, lysine hinders the virus's ability to multiply and is helpful for preventing shingles. Murray and Pizzorno suggest consuming foods that are high in lysine while avoiding arginine-rich foods. Foods high in arginine that should be avoided include chocolate and nuts. A diet high in lysine includes whole grains, dairy, fish, lima beans and soy. Lysine may also be taken as a supplement.
Licorice
Licorice, also known by its Latin name Glycyrrhiza glabra, is an herb used for a wide variety of health ailments. Licorice is a member of the legume family and should not be confused with the twisted red candy by the same name. Ed Smith, an herbalist and author of "Therapeutic Herb Manual," states that licorice is antiviral and anti-inflammatory, as well as healing to the mucous membranes of the respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts. In addition to its ability to counter viral infections, licorice also enhances adrenal gland function. Proper adrenal function enables an individual to cope with stress and helps optimize immune function. This can be especially helpful for preventing shingles, because stress and compromised immunity increase the risk of reactivating the virus that causes shingles. The root of the licorice plant is used medicinally and it has a sweet taste. Licorice root is available as a tea, liquid extract, capsule or tablet. Smith warns that individuals with high blood pressure or congestive heart disease should not take licorice.
Olive Leaf Extract
Olive leaf extract, from the Olea europaea plant, is employed for heart disease and viral infections. Smith describes olive leaf extract as a broad-spectrum antiviral that's especially helpful for flu and herpes. Olive leaf extract has a long history of medicinal use in the Mediterranean and Middle East to lower blood pressure, fight common colds and flu, balance blood sugar, aid in treating autoimmune disorders and increase energy levels. The website Guyot.com calls olive leaf a "top 10 immune system booster." Olive leaf may be particularly useful for shingles prevention in individuals with cardiovascular disease or increased susceptibility to infection. Olive leaf extract is available as a tincture or capsule.
References
- MedlinePlus: Shingles
- "Textbook of Natural Medicine"; Joseph E. Pizzorno, N.D., and Michael T. Murray, N.D.; 2006
- "Therapeutic Herb Manual: A Guide to the Safe and Effective Use of Liquid Herbal Extracts"; Ed Smith; 2007
