Shingles, otherwise known as herpes zoster, is an ailment suffered by millions of people ranging from young adults to the elderly. This virus that causes the condition results in a breakout of small, painful blisters. These blisters, which are called vesicles, eventually rupture and become scabs. There is also redness, itching and swelling involved, and shingles must be treated to prevent any later complications.
Easy Holistic Remedies
While there are medicines on the market available for shingles, there are cheaper homemade holistic remedies that can be just as effective. One of these uses two crushed aspirin mixed with 2 tbsp. of rubbing alcohol to create a paste. Rubbing this mixture on the lesions three times a day is said to relieve the pain.
To relieve the itch, combine 1 part rubbing alchohol to 3 parts calamine lotion, a little bit of phenol and mentho and apply continuously until the blisters scab over.
Home Remedies
Home remedies that treat shingles include aloe vera gel, raw honey and leek juice. Combine the ingredientsl and rub over the blisters several times a day. Treat blisters that are infected with hydrogen peroxide.
Another remedy uses a mixture of baking soda, water, vitamin E oil, apple cider vinegar and peppermint tea. Spread this mixture onto the skin directly or onto a cloth used as a cold compress.
Commercial Holistic Remedies
When the blisters are on the trunk of the body, try Ranunculus bulbosus, sometimes called St. Anthony's turnip. It eases the pain and itch that is caused by even the slightest of movements. Ranunculus bulbosus can easily be purchased at most health food stores. Most stores have this herb in capsule form, which is taken orally two to three times per day.
Other remedies include Apis and Mezereum. Apis, which is used when the main symptoms are swelling and stinging pain, can be found in the form of an anti-itch ointment at most pharmacies. Mezereum can be used when the pain is severe, when there are brown scabs formed on the skin, or when there is lasting pain even after the lesions are gone. Mezereum is available in most health food stores, and is available as a topical ointment or capsule.
These are the post popular remedies for shingles, but when visiting the health store, ask if there are others to consider.
Tags: food stores, health food, health food stores, Holistic Remedies, most health, most health food, Ranunculus bulbosus