Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a condition caused by varicella zoster, the same virus that causes chickenpox. This virus lies dormant after a chickenpox outbreak and can cause shingles years or even decades later, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Symptoms include pain, fever, blisters on the skin, headaches and vision disturbances. Certain supplements may help prevent shingles outbreaks. Check with your doctor before taking any supplement to prevent shingles.
Angelica
Angelica, known in traditional Chinese medicine as dong quai, was originally used in Chinese herbal medicine to treat menstrual discomforts. European herbalists in the 16th century used angelica as a treatment for headaches and an antidote for poisons. Supplements containing dried angelica root may also help control the spread of the varicella zoster virus, preventing shingles outbreaks, according to American botanist James Duke, Ph.D., author of "The Green Pharmacy Herbal Handbook," who is most notable for developing the Phytochemical and Ethnobotanical Databases at the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Check with your doctor before taking angelica supplements -- this herb may promote cancerous tumor growth.
Zinc
Zinc is well-known for its topical uses as a sunburn preventive and acne treatment. However, this mineral may also help prevent shingles outbreaks. It may stimulate immune system function, helping your body produce white blood cells to attack varicella zoster virus cells, according to certified nutritional consultant Phyllis Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." It may also encourage production of interferon, an antiviral chemical manufactured by your body. Consult your physician before taking zinc supplements to prevent shingles. This mineral may interfere with the absorption of iron in your digestive system.
Lysine
Lysine is an amino acid that your body cannot produce, so you must obtain it from foods or supplements. This amino acid is known for its role in building muscle cells and collagen, a component of skin. Lysine supplements may also aid in the production of antibodies that attack varicella zoster virus cells, according to Balch.
Lemon Balm
Lemon balm is an herb native to western Asia and the Mediterranean region of Europe. It is primarily used as a culinary herb in salads, soups, marinades and meat dishes. However, lemon balm may also have medicinal benefits. Supplements containing this herb may offer antiviral benefits, and may be particularly effective for destroying herpes virus cells, according to Duke. Consult your physician before taking lemon balm supplements. This herb may occasionally cause stomach upset.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Shingles
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C. et al.; 2010
- "The Green Pharmacy Herbal Handbook"; James A. Duke, Ph.D.; 2002
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