Herpes zoster, commonly known as Shingles, is a viral infection caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), the same virus that causes chickenpox. It manifests as a painful rash with fluid-filled blisters on the strip of the skin, usually occurring on one side of the body or anywhere in the body. While there is no cure for shingles, Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, offers a holistic approach to managing the symptoms, reducing pain, promoting healing, and supporting overall well-being.

Pain can be mild to extreme, but sensation often described as stinging, tingling, aching, or throbbing. The rash usually heals within 2 weeks but sometimes people develop ongoing nerve pain, which can lasts for months, years, and this condition is postherpetic neuralgia (PHN). With poor immune system, the rash may occur widely and known as Shingles. It is due to reactivation of varicella Zoster (VZV).  Once the chicken pox is cured, the virus may remain inactive in nerve cells, when it reactivates, it travels to the ending of the skin with small blisters. The rash commonly occurs on the hands, armpits, shoulders, eyes, wrist, or anywhere on the body. Initially, rash occurs then form small blisters filled with serous exudate with fever and fatigue. The panful vesicles eventually become cloudy or darkened as it is filled with blood and it becomes crust within 7/10 days. Later they fall off and skin heals but in case of severe blisters, skin may remain scarring and discoloration.

What is the Ayurvedic view of Shingles/ Herpes zoster?

According to Ayurveda, shingles is mainly caused by an imbalance in the doshas, particularly the Pitta and Vata doshas. Aggravated Pitta dosha leads to inflammation, heat, and blister formation, while imbalanced Vata dosha can cause pain, itching, and nerve-related symptoms. Ayurvedic treatments aim to balance the doshas, reduce inflammation, soothe the affected nerves, support the immune system, and promote overall well-being.

What are the causes of Shingles?

Shingles is caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus (VZV) in individuals who have previously had chickenpox. Common factors contributing to its reactivation include:

1. Weakened immune system due to aging, stress, or certain medical conditions. 2. History of having chickenpox infection before eighteen months of age. 3. Close contact with individuals who have active Shingles

What are the Symptoms of Shingles?

The symptoms of shingles can vary, but common signs include: 1) Pricking pain, burning, or tingling sensation in a specific area. 2) Rash or clusters of fluid-filled blisters, usually on one side of the bod. 3) Itching or skin over sensitivity. 4) Numbness. 5) Nerve-related symptoms, such as sharp or shooting pain. 6) Headache. 7) Fever and fatigue

What are the Ayurvedic Treatment Approach for Shingles?

It is always recommended to consult with an Ayurvedic healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate medical care for Shingles. At the same time, the Ayurvedic management can be used as a supportive therapy to alleviate symptoms, reduce pain, promote healing, support the immune system, and promote overall well-being. The treatment approach includes:

·       Herbal Medicines: Ayurvedic herbs like Neem (Azadirachta indica), Manjistha (Rubia cordifolia), Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia), Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus), and Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) are commonly used to reduce inflammation, soothe the nerves, support the immune system, and promote healing. These herbs can be taken internally or used as prescribed by an Ayurvedic practitioner.

·       Diet and Lifestyle Modifications: Following a balanced diet that include fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats in the diet and avoiding processed foods, excessive sugar, and unhealthy fats along with practicing stress reduction techniques, getting adequate sleep, maintaining proper hygiene and maintaining a healthy lifestyle are important for managing shingles.

·       External Applications: Ayurvedic formulations or external applications like medicated oils, pastes, or powders containing herbs with anti-inflammatory and soothing properties may be recommended for topical use on the affected areas. These formulations help reduce inflammation, alleviate pain, promote healing, and soothe the nerves.

·       Panchakarma Therapy: Panchakarma, a set of Ayurvedic detoxification procedures, may be recommended to eliminate toxins, balance the doshas, and support overall well-being. Specific treatments like Abhyanga (oil massage), Swedana (herbal steam therapy), and Virechana (purgation) may be advised based on the individual’s condition.

·       Pain Management: Ayurvedic formulations containing herbs like Shallaki (Boswellia serrata), Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), and Guggulu (Commiphora mukul) may be prescribed to help manage pain and inflammation associated with shingles.

What are the best homeopathic remedies for Shingles?

·    Asters Rubens is given for herpes zoster on the left side of the body.

·    Croton tig best for herpes in summer with stinging or burning pain,

·    Zincum Phos is recommended when all the remedies failed to cure herpes zoster.

·    Natrum Mur is used for herpes marked with morning and evening aggravated pain.

·    Lachesis is for herpes zoster on left side and vesicles are blue.

·    Dulcamara s best for herpes with sensitive ulceration that are worse n rainy damp weather or in monsoon.

·    Cedron is another medicine for herpes zoster with radiating pans.

·    Hepar Sulph is given for herpes vesicles along the spinal nerve. Face. Near nose and eye orbits and lips.

·    Rhus tox is a common remedy for herpes with itching, burning, and tingling pan.

·    Ranunculus bulbosus is a useful remedy for post-herpes neuralgia cases.

·    Arsenic album is a remedy for intense burning in the eruption of herpes.