The Top Shingles Home Remedy

Shingles is a disease caused by the very same virus which causes chickenpox-varicella-zoster. The virus usually lies inactive in the nerve cells located near the brain and spinal cord. Upon suppression or weakening of the immune system, the virus re-emerges as shingles. Shingles is manifested by the development of painful rashes-fluid-filled blisters which eventually crusts. Shingles can cause extreme pain and usually takes weeks to heal. Fortunately, shingles home remedy is available, which can help alleviate the symptoms and shorten the recovery time.

One shingles home remedy is the application of cold packs. Cold packs can help relieve the pain and the burning sensation associated with the rashes. The packs should be wrapped in soft towels and should be applied to the affected skin for twenty minutes. Regular application of cold packs, with an interval of twenty minutes between each application, has been observed to diminish the pain caused by shingles.

Another shingles home remedy is lavender oil. Lavender does not only have an aromatic fragrance it also has properties which helps the skin to heal. Lavender oil contains soothing compounds. Not only will the shingles be less painful, lavender oil can also help one relax.

Tea tree oil is another shingles home remedy. Tea tree oil has been studied thoroughly and is found to have many beneficial effects on the skin. It is applied directly to the rashes to help soothe them and to help reduce the inflammation.

Witch hazel is an astringent which has been observed to relive uncomfortable sensations caused by shingles. It is an effective shingles home remedy as it helps in the rejuvenation of damaged skin cells. Witch hazel is also known to promote the normal levels of good bacteria in the body. Aside from these, witch hazel also has soothing effects.

Apple cider vinegar is another shingles home remedy. Apple cider vinegar is an acetic acid prepared from apple cider. Apple cider vinegar is observed to help relieve the itching and pain caused by shingles. To apply apple cider vinegar, it should be diluted with two parts water. The mixture should be applied to the affected parts, either with a washcloth or cotton balls. Apple cider vinegar also helps dry the blisters faster.

Aside from the above mentioned shingles home remedy, management of shingles should also include altering one’s diet. Individuals suffering form shingles should get more vitamin C and zinc. A high-lysine diet has also been found to help relieve shingles.

Of course, the #1 shingles home remedy would always be prevention. Shingles can be prevented by avoiding contact with people who have shingles or chickenpox. A healthy lifestyle is also necessary in order to avoid being immunocompromised.