Shingles, a condition caused by infection of the varicella-zoster virus, is a common ailment affecting Americans. The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality states that about 1 million people in the United States are treated for shingles or its complications. Shingles may cause nerve problems, such as pain, itching or tingling sensations. Before using supplements to help treat your shingles-related nerve problems, speak with your primary care provider about the healing potential and risks of these natural healing agents.
About Shingles
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 33 percent of Americans will experience this shingles. Shingles is characterized by nerve pain or other sensations on one side of your body and the appearance of red skin patches and blisters. Your shingles-related blisters will eventually rupture, forming tiny ulcers that eventually crust and fall off. In most cases, no scarring occurs. Some people may, however, develop a condition called postherpetic neuralgia that involves prolonged nerve pain in the location where your shingles occurred.
Helpful Supplements
Certain dietary supplements may be helpful in restoring the health and function of your nerves following a case of shingles. In her book "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," naturopathic physician Sharol Tilgner states that both oats and St. John's wort are nerve tonics, or supplements that nourish and support your nervous system, including your nerves. Dietary supplements that may be helpful in treating the nerve pain associated with postherpetic neuralgia include catnip, blue violet, rosemary, white willow and wood betony. These supplements may require further scientific testing to determine their true health efficacy.
Featured Supplement
St. John's wort may be one of the most beneficial nutritional supplements in treating shingles-related nerve problems. In her book "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," certified nutritional consultant Phyllis A. Balch states that St. John's wort has historically been used in treating nerve pain, and that it can be applied topically to help speed wound healing. Other traditional uses for this herb include depression, eczema, anxiety, cold sores, menopause and ulcerative colitis. Greater scientific scrutiny may be necessary to assess the effectiveness of this herb in treating shingles-related nerve problems.
Warning
Shingles is a condition that may best be managed by a licensed health care professional. If you develop the common signs and symptoms of this painful condition, do not delay in seeking treatment from your primary care provider. Your doctor can counsel you on the most effective and relevant therapies to help treat your shingles-related nerve pain and problems. Not all dietary supplements may be appropriate for you or your condition. Always ask your doctor about possible side effects and potential drug interactions before using supplements.
References
- Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality: AHRQ News and Numbers
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Shingles
- "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth"; Sharol Tilgner, N.D.; 1999
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
