Shingles – How Can Earth Energies Help?

What is it?

  Shingles (the medical name is Herpes zoster) results from the reactivation of the chicken pox virus (varicella-zoster) that lies dormant in nerve cells after the initial contraction – usually during childhood. While shingles are most common in adults aged between 50 and 80 years old, anyone with a weakened immune system can be affected. An outbreak is often preceded by a period of physical or emotional stress and some medications, such as chemotherapy or steroids, can also predispose a person to shingles. The signs of a shingle outbreak are similar to those of Herpes simplex (cold sores) in that areas of the skin become sensitive, and a tingling, stinging, sometimes itchy pain is experienced for a few days (sometimes weeks) before small, fluid-filled blisters appear. The rash most commonly appears on the mid and upper torso and may be in clusters or in a line. In the days leading up to the appearance of the blisters (this is called the prodromal phase) some individuals may also experience headaches and muscle pain, photophobia (sensitivity to bright light), and unusual tiredness and fatigue. Shingles typically heal over a period of two to four weeks, and in some cases can leave scarring and changes to the skin.

How can we help prevent it?

  A key factor in preventing an outbreak is to avoid getting too rundown. Easier said than done though as stress can sometimes blindside us; indeed, the term ‘stress’ is so ingrained in our collective psyche that it seems as much a part of everyday life as breathing and eating. A simple definition of stress is ‘the body’s reaction to a change that requires a physical, mental or emotional adjustment or response.’ So to this end, stress is also brought about by positive, happy events such as excitement over an upcoming occasion or a trip overseas. And can you imagine the impact on your body of finding out you had just won the 32-million-dollar lottery draw? So every day we are experiencing changes and situations that are technically stressful situations, however we really don’t give them second thought until our body alerts us in some way and we have to pay it some attention. Some ways we can take extra care of ourselves to minimise the effects of stress on our body include eating a nourishing, balanced diet, counselling, starting a new hobby, yoga, meditation, massages, and nutrient/herbal supplementation.

Natural treatments – Earth Energies Kawa Cream and Kawa Balm Kawa Cream is a gentle blend of oils and herbs that can assist with skin healing while also supporting the body’s immune system with antiseptic, antiviral and antimicrobial properties. Kawakawa, New Zealand’s own first aid herb, is ideal for helping treat skin conditions where there is discomfort and inflammation – as is seen with shingles. The active constituents in Kawakawa provide mild analgesic (pain relieving) properties as does lavender essential oil. Lavender is also a natural antiviral and is soothing and calming to the entire nervous system. Tea tree oil (manuka and kanuka) provide further antimicrobial, antiviral and anti-inflammatory actions. We recommend using Kawa Cream up to five times daily during a shingles outbreak to assist with healing and skin health. Once the blisters have subsided and the lesions begin to scab over people may experience considerable neuralgic (nerve) pain in the area affected by the rash. This may last weeks, months or in some cases, years. Kawa Balm contains peppermint, wintergreen, clove, camphor and rosemary essential oils, as well as soothing beeswax and the active kawa oil. This unique blend of essential oils packs a powerful analgesic punch to assist with the discomfort associated with ongoing neuralgia. Additionally, Kawa Balm helps with improving circulation in the body, delivering nutrient-rich blood to the affected areas to assist with healing and new skin cell growth, as well as providing some ongoing antimicrobial support. Use Kawa Balm as needed to calm and soothe affected areas  

Caution – if shingles appears on your face or head, particularly near eyes or ears, it is important to get to a doctor immediately to avoid possible damage to sight and hearing. 

You are welcome to contact our naturopath Leisa if you would like more information on the nutritional and herbal treatment options for assisting shingles.