Updated: April 2, 2024

5 Simple Natural Pain Cures

The rash caused by shingles is characterized by itchiness, but pain is an even more frustrating issue. On each side of your body, there are pathways for nerve roots that supply sensation to the skin. When the varicella-zoster virus, the same one that causes chickenpox, becomes reactivated, red blotchy patches on one side of your body or face, cluster along nerve pathways. It is common for an infected individual to complain about shooting pain in the region where the rash appears. Shingles complication can lead to long-lasting nerve pain known as postherpetic neuralgia. While there are different treatments and drugs for shingles-associated pain, such as opioid painkillers, steroid injections, and various topical and skin patch options, there are alternative treatments for shingles. Here you will learn about the different alternative treatments that you can apply to shingles.

Cold Compress

This is a very simple and safe option when use sensibly. This method works by reducing blood flow to the infected area, reducing inflammation and swelling that causes pain. Furthermore, it can temporarily reduce nerve activity, thereby relieving pain.
Method:
– Wet a towel with cold water and place it in plastic bag then seal it.
– Place the plastic bag in the freezer for 15 minutes.
– Wrap a wet washcloth around the plastic bag
– Place cold compress on the affected area for no more than 20 minutes
– Dry area thoroughly when done

Geranium Essential Oil

One of the frequently mentioned complication of shingles is postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), which causes severe and long-term pain. Geranium essential oil has been studied and demonstrated to reduce pain due to PHN. When applied topically, this essential oil is effective and relieves painful sensations in a matter of minutes. It is often recommended for shingles pain because it has been proven to be more effective than capsaicin at improving pain.

Vitamin B 12

This vitamin is required for proper red blood cell formation, neurological function, and helps make DNA. It is also known as the vitamin that can boost your energy. Studies show that Vitamin B 12 could play a role in pain management by encouraging your body
to thicken its protective coating encircling the nerves, so they do not malfunction and cause pain.

Lavender

Lavender essential oil can be an effective pain-reliever and anti-inflammatory. In a study, lavender was compared to prescription medication tramadol, used to treat moderate to severe pain. The test revealed that when applied topically, lavender has the ability to provide similar relief as tramadol. As such, lavender could be used as an alternative treatment to help treat pain associated with shingles.

Thyme Oil

Thyme is an aromatic herb that can provide relief from acute or chronic pain because of its pain relieving and anti-inflammatory properties. A compound found in thyme, carvacrol, is an enzyme connected with inflammation. Thyme essential oil can be applied topically and easily penetrate the surface of the skin to reduce pain.

Pain is a common feature of shingles, and while it can be treated with conventional drugs, there are alternative treatment for shingles pain that you can consider. From homemade cold compress, vitamin B 12, to essential oils, pain relief from shingles can be achieved without prescription medications.

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