Seeking A Cure For Shingles? These Herbs May Provide Relief

If you ever had chicken pox, you are at risk of contracting shingles.

Shingles is caused by the herpes zoster virus that causes chicken pox. It lies dormant in the body of people who have had chicken pox. Shingles most often occurs in people aged fifty and above.

Shingles may suddenly appear; however, they are most likely to develop after a person is exposed to physical or emotional stress. Shingles are very painful lesions which follow nerve pathways. They may last for prolonged periods of time. Pain may persist even after the lesions are healed. Prescription medications may be needed. Herbal remedies are not a cure for shingles; however, they offer supportive care.

Relaxing Herbs for Shingles

The nervous system is traumatized when shingles is present. The body’s endorphins become depleted. Since shingles may persist for months; the lack of “feel good” natural chemicals within the body leads to fatigue, irritability and increased pain. Herbs may be used to nourish the nervous system and soothe irritated nerves. The more relaxed that a person becomes, the less pain is experienced.

Have a Cup of Tea

Lemon balm is one of the best herbs to use for shingles. Lemon balm tastes good and is relaxing. Drink one cup of lemon balm tea at least four times each day.

Lemon balm has antidepressant effects. Depression is a concern whenever prolonged pain is present, as the same endorphins which are being used up to help the body cope with pain are the hormones that are responsible for creating an uplifted mood. Lemon balm literally soothes frayed nerves.

Lemon balm possesses antiviral properties. It may help to deactivate the herpes simplex virus. If you experience pain along a nerve and no open lesions are present, apply a blend of one teaspoon of aloe gel mixed with two drops of essential oil of melissa. Melissa is another name for lemon balm. Pain often occurs before the lesions appear. Essential oil of melissa is an excellent treatment for post herpetic pain as well.

St John’s wort Does More than Elevate your Mood

Most people have heard of St John’s wort being used as a remedy for mild to moderate depression. It does elevate mood, which is important. In addition, St John’s wort has pain relieving properties and destroys viruses.

You may make beautiful ruby red oil if you have access to St John’s wort flowers. If not, herbalists sometimes have small amounts of this valuable oil on hand. Check at a local herb shop. If you are able to obtain or make St John’s wort oil, use it instead of aloe gel for the above recipe. Your herbal preparation will pack a one, two punch to the pain and inflammation of the herpes virus.

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