The herpes zoster virus that causes chickenpox can find its way into the nerves and lie dormant, emerging years or even decades later as shingles. Shingles produces itching, a blistering rash, and sometimes severe pain along the nerves affected. A doctor may prescribe medication, or you may find relief with one of these home remedies.
Homemade Topical Remedies
The list of homemade skin remedies is almost endless, though there is little scientific research to back them up. Most are unlikely to have dangerous side effects, but check with your doctor before using.
Crush two aspirins into a powder, and mix with 2 tbsp. of nail polish remover. Stir together, and apply to the affected area with a cotton ball several times a day. Don't substitute acetaminophen or other pain relievers, and make sure that the nail polish remover contains acetone. Do not try this remedy if you're allergic to aspirin, and be sure not to apply it to folds in the skin that may not dry completely, since it could irritate the rash.
Apple cider vinegar is another old home remedy that may soothe the rash. Mix equal parts of apple cider vinegar with water. Soak a clean cotton cloth in the solution. Wring out until just moist, and apply to the affected area as needed.
Another folk remedy is pear juice. Pear juice contains caffeic acid, believed to act as a natural antiviral. Drink a cup of pear juice each morning.
Other suggestions including dabbing on a paste of baking soda and water, or a mixture of yogurt and zinc oxide. Combine equal parts of aloe vera gel, leek juice and raw honey to make a soothing lotion, or try 1/2 cup of unsalted butter mixed with one tablespoon of turmeric powder.
Over-the-Counter Treatments
Calamine is a tried-and-true remedy. Bruce Thiers, M.D. with the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston, says, "You can apply it straight on or mix a little rubbing alcohol with it." Dr. Thiers cautions, though, that it's important to make sure it's calamine lotion, and not Caladryl, which contains antihistamines that can cause a reaction.
In "The Doctors Book of Home Remedies II," Dr. Leon Robb suggests that lysine, an amino acid, may also help. He says although there has not been research specifically on shingles, lysine can help lessen the spread of herpes zoster. Obtain lysine in the diet through milk, potatoes and chicken, but to get the amount needed to help shingles, add a dietary supplement. Take three daily doses of 500 to 1,000 mg each during an outbreak. To help prevent outbreaks, take 1,000 mg a day.
Other Treatments
Science does not yet know for sure what causes shingles outbreaks, but indications are poor nutrition or stress may be triggers. Many of the suggestions to prevent or relieve shingles also apply to good health in general: plenty of rest, a healthy, balanced diet, and vitamin or mineral supplements when needed, especially B complex vitamins.
Managing stress can help decrease pain. Spend time with a favorite hobby or a pet to help relax and take your mind off the pain. Techniques like deep breathing exercises, self-hypnosis, or yoga may also help relieve stress.
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