Top 9 Home Remedies for Soothing Shingles Pain

ByAgkidzone Staff

Updated: Oct 26, 2024

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Shingles is caused by the same sneaky virus that gave you chickenpox as a kid. If you thought chickenpox was tough back then, shingles can feel like a not-so-fun blast from the past—but even more challenging. The virus never actually leaves your body; instead, it hides in your nervous system, waiting for the right moment to resurface when your immune defenses are down. That's why shingles is more common among older adults, though it can pop up whenever the conditions are just right. People who've had organ transplants or who have conditions like cancer or AIDS are at a higher risk due to weakened immune systems.

At the onset of shingles, you might feel pain or a tingling sensation in certain parts of your body, typically confined to one side. Soon after, a red rash develops, followed by blisters that can last from a few days to several weeks. Fortunately, there are several home remedies that can help ease the discomfort and speed up the healing process. Here are ten effective ways to make dealing with shingles a bit more bearable.

Baking Soda

Baking soda is a household staple that's as versatile as it is affordable. To relieve the symptoms of shingles, you can make a simple paste by mixing baking soda with a little water. Gently apply this paste to the affected area, being careful not to irritate the skin. The baking soda helps to dry out blisters and can reduce itching and inflammation. It's a quick fix that can provide immediate relief, making those tough moments a bit easier to handle.

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Garlic

Garlic isn't just great for flavoring your favorite dishes; it's also a powerhouse when it comes to health benefits. Known for its antiviral properties, garlic can support your immune system and promote heart health. To use garlic for shingles, crush about four cloves to make a thick paste. Apply this paste gently to the affected area and leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing off with warm water. Alternatively, you can boost your immune system by eating a few cloves of garlic each day. It's a natural remedy that's been trusted for generations.

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Honey

Thanks to its natural healing properties, honey offers a simple yet effective way to soothe the pain associated with shingles. To use honey as a remedy, apply a small amount to a bandage and place it over the blisters. Change the bandage and reapply honey every few hours. Additionally, consuming a tablespoon of honey daily can help strengthen your immune system. After all, a spoonful of honey might just help the healing go down.

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Cold Water

Staying hydrated by drinking at least eight glasses of water a day is essential for overall health. It keeps your skin clear and helps stabilize your immune system. For shingles relief, you can also apply cool water directly to the affected areas. Soak a clean towel in comfortably cool water and place it on the irritated skin, changing it every 20 minutes. This can help reduce pain and inflammation, giving you a much-needed respite from discomfort.

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Take a Pain Reliever

Over-the-counter pain relievers can be a straightforward way to alleviate the discomfort and reduce inflammation caused by shingles. Consult your doctor to determine which pain medication is most suitable for you, especially if you have any allergies or are taking other medications. Always follow the recommended dosage instructions. Sometimes, a little relief can go a long way in helping you get through the day.

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Lemon Balm

Lemon balm is an herb rich in polyphenols, which have antiviral properties. It's a common natural remedy for various skin rashes and blisters, making it helpful for shingles. Brew a tea using lemon balm leaves and allow it to cool to room temperature. Then, soak a cotton ball or washcloth in the tea and apply it directly to the affected skin. This soothing application can ease irritation and support the healing process.

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Licorice

While you might think of licorice as a sweet treat, it has a long history of medicinal use. Licorice root contains antiviral and immune-boosting properties, which can aid your body in fighting the shingles virus. You can purchase licorice in powder form and mix it with water to create a paste. Apply this paste to the blisters and let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing off. Alternatively, make a tea from licorice root, soak a cotton ball in it, and gently dab it onto the affected areas as needed. It's an age-old remedy that might just do the trick.

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Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is renowned for its anti-inflammatory and antiviral benefits, both of which are crucial in treating shingles. Warm up some pure virgin coconut oil just enough to melt it slightly, and then gently rub it onto the affected skin. This can help soothe irritation and may speed up the healing process. Plus, it leaves your skin feeling soft and nourished.

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Essential Oils

Certain essential oils can provide soothing relief and may even promote faster healing of shingles blisters. Oils like lavender, chamomile, and tea tree oil have anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties. Before applying, it's important to dilute essential oils with a carrier oil like almond or olive oil to prevent skin irritation. Apply the diluted oil gently to the affected area using a cotton ball or clean fingers. Remember, a little goes a long way with these potent remedies.

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