Herpes zoster, commonly known as shingles, is a viral infection that causes a painful condition characterized by a rash of blisters on the skin. The varicella-zoster virus (VZV), which also causes chickenpox, causes herpes zoster.

After a person recovers from chickenpox, the virus can lie dormant in the body, and it may later reactivate causing herpes zoster.

While the rash is the most obvious aspect of the condition, the pain that accompanies herpes zoster is often the most debilitating. The pain can range from mild to severe and can affect one side of the body or the entire body.

Fortunately, there are herbs that can provide relief from the pain of herpes zoster.

What is Herpes Zoster?

Herpes zoster is caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox. After a person recovers from chickenpox, the virus remains inactive in the body and can later reactivate to cause shingles.

The reactivation of the virus is usually triggered by stress, a weakened immune system, or aging. The virus attacks the nerves, causing inflammation and pain, which can be severe.

The symptoms of herpes zoster include:.

Pain or burning sensation on one side of the body
Tingling or itching on the affected area
A rash or blisters on the skin, usually on one side of the body
Fever, headache or fatigue

How Can Herbs Help?

Herbs have been used for centuries to help alleviate pain and inflammation. Some herbs can help reduce the severity and duration of herpes zoster pain. These herbs work by reducing inflammation, relieving pain, and supporting the immune system.

Here are some of the best herbs that can help relieve pain caused by herpes zoster:.

1. Licorice Root

The Licorice root is a herb that has been used for centuries to treat a variety of conditions, including herpes zoster. Licorice root contains glycyrrhizin, which has an anti-inflammatory effect on the body.

It also contains flavonoids that have antiviral properties, which can help fight the varicella-zoster virus.

Licorice root can be used topically or taken orally in the form of teas, capsules, or tinctures. Studies have shown that applying a topical solution of licorice root onto the affected area can help reduce the pain and duration of herpes zoster.

2. St. John’s Wort

St. John’s Wort is a herb that has been widely used to treat many ailments, including viral infections like herpes zoster. The active compounds in St.

John’s Wort, like hypericin and hyperforin, have antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties that can help relieve pain and reduce the duration of the outbreak.

St. John’s Wort is available in the form of topical creams and ointments, capsules, and tinctures. It can also be taken in herbal tea form.

3. Lemon Balm

Lemon balm is a herb that has been used for centuries to reduce pain and inflammation. The active compounds in lemon balm, like rosmarinic acid and eugenol, have antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties that can help relieve herpes zoster pain.

Lemon balm is available in the form of creams, ointments, tinctures, herbal teas, and capsules. Studies have shown that applying a topical solution of lemon balm extract can help reduce the severity and duration of the pain caused by herpes zoster.

4. Echinacea

Echinacea is a herb that is widely used to boost the immune system and fight viral infections.

The active compounds in echinacea, like polysaccharides and alkylamides, have immune-enhancing and antiviral properties that can help fight the varicella-zoster virus.

Echinacea is available in the form of capsules, tinctures, and teas. It can also be applied topically in the form of creams and ointments.

5. Chinese Skullcap

The Chinese Skullcap is a herb that has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries to treat a range of conditions, including herpes zoster.

The active compounds in Chinese skullcap, like baicalin and baicalein, have anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties that can help relieve the pain and inflammation caused by herpes zoster.

Chinese skullcap is available in the form of capsules, tinctures, and teas. It can also be applied topically in the form of creams and ointments.

Conclusion

Herpes zoster pain can be debilitating and can greatly affect a person’s quality of life. While traditional medicine can help ease the pain and discomfort, herbs can also provide relief. Some herbs, like licorice root, St.

John’s Wort, and lemon balm, have anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties that can help alleviate the pain and inflammation caused by herpes zoster. Echinacea and Chinese Skullcap are herbs that can help boost the immune system and fight the varicella-zoster virus. Consult your healthcare provider before starting any herbal remedies to make sure they are safe for you.