Top Natural Remedies to Ease Shingles Discomfort

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately one-third of people will experience shingles at some point. This viral condition, known as herpes zoster, results in painful skin rashes and is caused by the reactivation of the varicella zoster virus—the same one behind chickenpox. After recovery from chickenpox, the virus stays dormant and can activate when the immune system weakens, especially in older adults.

Currently, there’s no cure for shingles.

While medical treatments primarily focus on managing symptoms, there are effective home-based remedies that can help soothe pain and prevent complications. These include over-the-counter pain relievers, topical ointments, and prescription drugs like corticosteroids, opioids, anticonvulsants, and antidepressants. Natural remedies can also alleviate discomfort by soothing the skin and reducing irritation. Care should be taken as shingles rashes are infectious and prone to secondary infection.

Here are some natural home methods to help relieve shingles pain.

Soothing Baths
Cleaning blisters daily helps prevent infection spread. Taking a cool bath or shower can relieve pain and itchiness. Add 1-2 cups of colloidal oatmeal or cornstarch to lukewarm water. Essential oils like tea tree or lavender can be added for additional relief. Soak for 15-20 minutes, avoiding hot water. Dry your skin gently afterward.

Cold Compress
Applying a cool, damp cloth on the affected area can diminish pain and irritation. Soak a soft cloth in cold water, wring excess moisture, and gently apply to the rash. Repeat several times daily, being gentle to avoid cracking the blisters and worsening infection.

Baking Soda and Cornstarch Paste
Mix baking soda, cornstarch, and water to form a paste; apply it to blisters to reduce itching and discomfort. Cover with a non-adhesive bandage if needed.

Lotions and Natural Creams
To prevent scratching, which can cause scarring, use soothing lotions with aloe vera or essential oils. These won’t cure the rash but provide temporary relief from itching. Choose chemical-free options for better safety.

Wear Loose Clothing
Loose, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen help prevent friction and irritation, promoting faster healing of skin lesions.

Diet for Immune Support
Building immunity is vital in shingles recovery. Incorporate nutrients like Vitamins A, B-12, C, E, and amino acids such as lysine. Include foods like oranges, lemons, spinach, lean meats, eggs, chicken, wild fish, dairy products, whole grains, legumes, beans, and tomatoes. Avoid foods high in sugar, arginine, refined carbs, and saturated fats.

In some cases, home remedies may not provide enough relief. It’s important to consult a healthcare professional for tailored treatment options, especially since shingles can lead to complications like postherpetic neuralgia—long-lasting nerve pain that persists for months or years.