Home Remedy for Shingles Pain

Shingles is caused by a virus, the same one that causes chickenpox. It usually comes years after having chickenpox. It manifests itself as a rash that shows up on one side of the body, and it can actually spread around from the back to the front of the body. It causes much pain and sensitivity, and it can take weeks to heal, so any home remedies thatl help soothe the pain are quite welcome.

Medications & Supplements

• A simple pain reliever, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, may help to relieve the pain associated with shingles. An antihistamine, such as diphenhydramine, might also help with the itching you may experience.
  Ranunculus bulbosus, found in most health food or natural stores, can be helpful for shingles. Vitamin C is also recommended at a high dose, 2000mg two times daily. You might also try 400 units of vitamin E two times daily. Citrus bioflavonoids are also recommended, one gram two times daily. Vitamin B-complex can help in the reconstruction of nerve cells, and it can also help to relieve stress, since stress can be a significant cause of shingles. If you can lower your stress levels, you can most likely shorten your bout with shingles.
  Lysine and Selenium may also be taken to help with shingles, and you can find them at any health food store as well.
  Your local health food/natural store may be of help to you in finding other potential remedies, but of course, any medications you take should be under the direction of your physician.

Topical Remedies

• Hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion may help to soothe the itch from the blisters. You can also make up a mixture of crushed aspirin and and two tablespoons of alcohol; rub this mixture on the rash or blisters, and this should give you some rest from the irritation. Another mixture is one-half cup of apple cider vinegar in two cups of water. Pat this on the area with a cotton ball, and this should provide some comfort. Aloe vera, honey and leek juice can be mixed to spread on the rash. Mix baking soda and water to spread on the area. Try mixing yogurt and zinc oxide to put on the rash; all of these mixtures can help to soothe your pain or itching. You can even try straight vitamin E oil or goldenseal.
  Try using a cool compress a few times every day. You might want to soak in the bathtub, in cool water; Aveeno makes an oatmeal bath that can be soothing and relaxing. Cornstarch can be used in place of the oatmeal, as well.

Other Remedies

• Adding a method of stress relief, such as yoga or meditation, might help to shorten your shingles. Allow yourself to rest, as rest will help to boost your immune system, so that it can fight off the infection. Stay away from foods that have high amounts of amino acids; these include chocolate or nuts.