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Herbal Remedies for Shingles Virus

Shingles are caused by the herpes virus varicella zoster. Shingles consists of a rash that follows a nerve pathway and can be very painful. Shingles outbreaks occur in adults who have previously had chickenpox and in whom the virus has reactivated, usually because their immune system is weakened by illness and/or stress.

  1. St. John's Wort

    • Oil of St. John's wort (hypericum) can be applied to the rash to help ease the pain of shingles outbreaks. You can take a tincture of St. John's wort internally if you are not taking any other medications, or drink tea made from this herb. St. John's wort is good at relieving nerve pain and has antiviral properties. It also has antidepressant effects, which may help relieve stress.

    Lemon Balm

    • The herb lemon balm has antiviral properties and may be especially effective against herpes viruses. You can use lemon balm in a variety of ways. Add 2 tsp. of dried lemon balm to 1 cup of boiling water and allow it to steep. You can drink this tea or apply it to your rash. You can use oil of lemon balm in a carrier product, such as almond oil or skin cream, and apply it to your rash several times daily.

    Red Pepper

    • Capsaicin is the ingredient in red peppers that makes them hot. Capsaicin is known for reliving pain and can help with nerve pain, or neuralgia, caused by herpes. You can buy commercial creams that contain capsaicin, or you can make your own by mixing ground red pepper (cayenne) into white skin lotion until the lotion takes on a pinkish hue. When using capsaicin products, test them first on a small area of skin to make sure they will not cause irritation. Apply them carefully and then wash your hands with soap. Take special care not to get capsaicin near your eyes or mucus membranes. You can also purchase cayenne capsules or just add more red pepper to your diet.

    Other Herbs

    • You can drink teas made from plants in the mint family (peppermint and spearmint) or apply them to your rash. Licorice has antiviral properties and can relieve pain. Watercress, purslane and soy may have anti-herpetic effects when eaten.

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