Shingles: Herpes Zoster

Shingles: Herpes Zoster

Naturopathic Antiviral Treatment and Pain Control for Shingles(Herpes Zoster)

What is Shingles?

Shingles(Herpes Zoster) is a extremely painful rash that develops on the body after reactivation of the chicken pox virus(Varicella Zoster). Outbreaks occur in times of stress when the immune system is compromised and can also be due to nutrient deficiencies. Shingles tends to be most common in people over 50, those with autoimmune disease and I often see it in new moms that are exhausted and may be re-exposed to chicken pox. Outbreaks are generally quite painful, forming a patchy, concentrated rash on the body with deep burning pain called post-herpetic neuralgia. Common areas are along the torso and you may feel as if you have a broken or bruised rib. The shingles virus and rash will run its course in 3-4 weeks but has been known to persist for months on end and should be treated as soon as possible to decrease long term symptoms and nerve damage. Natural treatments provide antiviral and anti-inflammatory supplementation, immune support, help prevent recurrence by avoiding triggers and most importantly decrease pain.

Prevention

Shingles is a herpes virus that, unlike chicken pox having a single episode, lies dormant in the nerve cells until it is triggered by stress to emerge in its active viral form.  Herpes viruses utilize the amino acid arginine for viral replication. In times of stress or at onset of an outbreak you should avoid all arginine increasing foods such as nuts, chocolate and dairy products. Also arginine and the amino acid lysine have been shown to have an antagonistic relationship competing for entry into the cells. Lysine supplementation has been shown to decrease herpes outbreak by inhibiting arginine induced viral replication. Take 500 – 1,000 mg of L-Lysine a day to prevent herpes zoster outbreaks and up to 3,000 mg a day during acute outbreaks

As well as using lysine to prevent shingles outbreaks incorporate the following into your lifestyle:  keep stress to a minimum, moderately exercise three to five times a week, incorporate breathing and relaxation techniques like meditation, avoid caffeine and nervous system stimulants, get proper rest and nutrition.

Nutrient deficiencies have been associated with HZ, specifically Vitamin C, Zinc, Calcium and B12. Nutrient support in food based as well as supplemental form should be taken into consideration. Vitamin D and A are hormones and immune modulators where deficiencies have been related to immune compromise and infection.

Immune Support

Strong herbal antivirals are also important to take for shingles prevention. They can stimulate the immune system and reduce activity of the virus. Lemon balm and licorice are antivirals that can be taken orally in tincture form and or put directly on the lesion. Elderberry is my favorite antiviral to use that has a pleasant taste and is safe long term, if pregnant or breast feeding and with children, Goldenseal, Astragalus and Echinacea are all powerful antivirals that can be used together during acute outbreaks.   Astragalus is the best tincture to use long term for prophylaxis. According to David Hoffman in “Medical Herbalism,” astragalus has been shown to strengthen immunity and is an ideal remedy for anyone who is immune compromised.

Pain Relief

Shingles can be severely painful. It travels along the nerve root, commonly in the area of the abdomen and ribcage and may feel as if you have broken a rib. It is a deep, burning sensation. The best natural treatment to relieve the pain of shingles is by using capsaicin, a constituent found in cayenne. In “Prescription for Nutritional Healing,” capsaicin has been noted to decrease “substance P,” a neurotransmitter than regulates the stimulation of pain impulses. Capsaicin can be found in many topical creams over the counter. Apply capsaicin cream three to four times a day to reduce pain. Do not use capsaicin until blisters have healed completely or burning may result. Pain will also be reduced with an anti-inflammatory diet and anti-inflammatory herbs such as Bromelain, Curcumin, Boswellia and Quercetin.

If you suffer from repeated herpes outbreaks or suspect exposure contact your naturopath today for diagnosis, prevention and immediate treatment.

CREATE HEALTH!

Dr. Hillary Martin, ND LMT
Licensed Naturopathic Doctor

13323 W. Washington Blvd Suite 202
Los Angeles, California 90066
www.drhillarymartin.com
310-691-6237