Shingles is a painful skin condition most often affecting older people. Shingles appear as red blisters and can affect any part of the body. It may cause an itching or burning sensation which can persist even after the blisters have healed. There is no cure for shingles, although there are many folk remedies believed to relieve the pain of this condition.
Topical Remedies
The pain of shingles can be soothed by applying various creams or oils to the affected area. According to a study in the May/June 2002 issue of "The Clinical Journal of Pain," applying peppermint oil to the affected skin several times daily can help diminish pain. Other soothing topical applications include pure Aloe vera gel, witch hazel, apple cider vinegar and red raspberry tea. A skin mask of baking soda and water, or of Epsom salts and water can be created and applied to the skin. This mask should be allowed to dry before being rinsed away with cool water. Alternatively, baking soda and Epsom salts can be added to cool bath water, which can be soaked in to soothe the skin. Those affected with shingles should repeat these treatments as often as necessary to reduce pain. Any treatment which causes irritation or redness to the skin should be avoided as it could make symptoms worse.
Diet
According to "Prescription for Natural Cures" by Dr. James F. Bach, a proper diet is important for those affected by the pain of shingles. Consuming foods which aid the nervous system can be beneficial to recovery. These foods include those high in B vitamins, such as wheat germ, brewer's yeast, eggs and whole grain foods. Calcium and magnesium help promote healing of damaged nerve endings and can be found in green leafy vegetables. Those suffering from shingles should also eat plenty of green, orange and yellow vegetables which are high in Vitamins A and C and can help speed the skin's recovery. While these foods may aid recovery, there are foods which may aggravate symptoms and extend suffering. Red meat, fried foods, chocolate and carbonated or caffeinated beverages should be avoided.
Stress Relief
A study conducted in 2007 by Michael Irwin, M.D suggested that practicing Tai Chi could lower a person's risk of developing shingles by boosting the immune system. This may be due to the fact that Tai Chi incorporates meditation and relaxation techniques with aerobic activity. Practicing relaxation techniques or receiving stress reduction therapy may help relieve a patients suffering or help them to better cope with the pain. Some people have found pain relief through acupuncture and acupressure treatments.
Tags: baking soda, Epsom salts, foods which, pain shingles, relaxation techniques