Used in an herbal wrap, chamomile can be a useful ally.
About one-third of the U.S. population will develop shingles and the risk increases with age, starting at around age 50. The infection causes a burning, blistering rash and mild to severe pain that can last for several weeks.
Most people have chickenpox in childhood. After the illness has gone, the virus remains dormant in the nervous system. But if the immune system is compromised by age, disease or stress, the virus can be reactivated many years later and cause shingles. This affects the nerves and the area of skin around them. You will need medical care to deal with the condition, but lots of rest and natural remedies can help to speed the healing process.
• Try various essential oils to alleviate pain. Mix 2 drops each bergamot and eucalyptus oils and 2 tablespoons (30 ml) almond oil. Use a cotton ball to dab the mixture on the blisters.
• A fuller’s earth (see here) poultice can also alleviate pain and dry up blisters. Stir the fuller’s earth with a little water to form a thick paste, spread it finger-thick on a cloth, cover with gauze and apply, cloth-side down, to the rash. Replace the pack as soon as it warms up. Apply twice daily.
• Apply washcloths soaked in soothing chamomile or yarrow tea to the rash.
• Blisters heal more quickly when they are sprinkled with a little diluted homemade tincture of calendula—one part tincture to four parts water.
Healing herbal wrap
1 cup (200 g) finely ground oats
4 teaspoons (20 g) dried chamomile
4 teaspoons (20 g) dried calendula
2 heaping tablespoons (35 g) dried lavender
1 quart (1 L) cold water
Pour the water over the ingredients and bring to a boil. Steep for 5 minutes; strain. Dab the warm liquid on the affected skin with a cotton ball or soak a cloth in it and cover the area.
• Strengthen your body’s defenses to make sure viruses don’t have a chance. Regular exercise, adequate rest and a vitamin-rich diet will help.
• Avoid extended sunbathing, as ultraviolet rays are stressful to the body.
WHEN TO CONSULT A DOCTOR Shingles is the product of the herpes zoster virus. If you have a rash on your forehead or anywhere near your eyes, see a doctor immediately to avoid the risk of damaging your corneas. Although you can expect some pain—unfortunately, it comes with the condition—if the pain is unbearable, it could indicate the presence of nerve damage (post-zoster neuralgia), so seek medical help. Home remedies can support a doctor’s treatment, but it is equally important to get plenty of rest. Physical exertion can exacerbate the problem.