Shingles, a painful skin condition caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, affects thousands of people each year. This rash, characterized by blisters and intense pain, can seriously affect quality of life. More and more people are turning to natural alternatives to soothe symptoms in addition to medical treatment.* Among these solutions, essential oils stand out for their antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties.
In this article, we invite you to discover how essential oils can help relieve the pain and itching associated with shingles. You'll also learn how to use these oils safely and effectively, thanks to synergistic recipes, including variations suitable for pregnant women and children.
* The tips given in this article do not replace medical advice, as your doctor is the primary player in your health. The synergy suggestions are not intended to replace a medical consultation or medical treatment, but are intended to raise awareness of aromatherapy to optimize your state of well-being. It is recommended to consult a doctor for a diagnosis and to verify the use of essential oils for yourself.
5 Essential Oils to Relieve Shingles
Tea tree: A powerful antiviral
Tea tree essential oil is renowned for its powerful antiviral and antibacterial properties, primarily due to its high concentration of terpinen-4-ol. This active compound gives it the ability to fight infections.
- Practical advice: Apply 3 to 4 drops of Tea tree essential oil diluted in Calendula vegetable oil (or Calendula muslin) directly to the areas affected by shingles, two to three times a day.
- Precautions: Not suitable for pregnant women under 3 months, or infants under 3 months - Dilute with a vegetable oil to avoid irritation on damaged or hypersensitive skin.
Peppermint: A remarkable soothing agent
Peppermint is an essential oil rich in menthol, a compound well known for its analgesic and cooling properties. Menthol works by slightly numbing the skin, which helps soothe the pain and burning sensations often associated with shingles. The cooling effect prevents the itching and burning sensations associated with shingles.
- Helpful Hint: Mix 2 drops of Peppermint essential oil with a tablespoon of carrier oil and gently apply to sore areas. This blend can be used up to three times a day for fast relief.
- Precautions: Dilute before application to the skin - Avoid application near the eyes and mucous membranes - Prohibited for pregnant and breastfeeding women and children under 7 years old - Not recommended for people with epilepsy.
Niaouli: An immunity booster
Niaouli essential oil, rich in 1,8-cineole, is effective in boosting the immune system. By strengthening the body's natural defenses, it helps fight viruses and prevent complications.
- Practical advice: Add 3 to 4 drops of Niaouli essential oil to a teaspoon of Calendula vegetable oil (or Calendula muslin) and massage the area around the rash, but without directly touching the lesions, twice a day to support your immune system.
- Precautions: Not suitable for pregnant and breastfeeding women - Not suitable for children under 3 years old - Dilute with a vegetable oil - Avoid prolonged use without medical advice, especially in people with a history of respiratory illnesses.
Ravintsara: Comprehensive antiviral support
Native to Madagascar, Ravintsara essential oil is a powerful natural antiviral, thanks to its high 1,8-cineole content. It is often used to relieve infections, due to its immune-supporting properties.
- Practical advice: Add 3 to 4 drops of Ravintsara essential oil to a teaspoon of Calendula vegetable oil (or Calendula muslin) on uninjured areas to stimulate the immune system and reduce symptoms, twice a day.
- Precautions: Not suitable for pregnant women under 3 months and breastfeeding women - Not suitable for children under 3 years old - Dilute with a vegetable oil - Not recommended for people with epilepsy or asthma without medical advice.
German Chamomile: A powerful calming agent
German chamomile is an essential oil rich in chamazulene, which gives it its blue color, a component known for its anti-inflammatory properties. It is effective in soothing skin inflammation and calming irritations related to shingles. It soothes the skin and prevents scratching.
- Helpful Tip: Make a soothing lotion by mixing 3 to 4 drops of German Chamomile essential oil with a mild carrier oil, such as Calendula oil, and gently apply to affected areas to reduce inflammation.
- Precautions: Not suitable for pregnant or breastfeeding women - Not suitable for children under 3 years old - Dilute with a vegetable oil - Avoid prolonged or excessive use - Not recommended for people with hormone-dependent pathologies.
Recipes to relieve shingles
Synergies only concern cutaneous shingles, after consulting a doctor.
Essential oil synergies are specific blends designed to maximize the benefits of oils when used together. When it comes to relieving shingles, certain combinations can provide more comprehensive relief from symptoms, including pain, inflammation, and itching.
Complete Lotion: a synergy for a global action
Ingredients
- 35 drops of Tea tree essential oil
- 15 drops of Niaouli essential oil
- 40 drops of Ravintsara essential oil
- 15 drops of German Chamomile essential oil
- 15 drops of Peppermint essential oil
- 30 ml of Calophyllum inophyllum vegetable oil (Tamanu oil)
Preparation
- Pour the Calophyllum inophyllum vegetable oil into a 50 ml amber glass bottle. Add the essential oils one by one, shaking the bottle gently after each addition to mix the ingredients well.
Use :
- Apply a few drops of this lotion to the areas affected by shingles, three to four times a day. Massage gently to promote penetration of the essential oils.
- Apply the Complete Lotion in the morning, right after showering. Reapply in the evening to continue relieving inflammation overnight.
Soothing Lotion to relieve pain
This lotion is specially formulated to soothe the pain and burning sensations associated with shingles, thanks to the cooling and analgesic properties of Peppermint.
Ingredients
- 4 drops of Peppermint essential oil
- 6 drops of German Chamomile essential oil
- 20 ml of Calophyllum inophyllum vegetable oil (Tamanu oil)
Preparation
- In a small 30 ml bottle, mix the Calophyllum inophyllum vegetable oil with the essential oils. Shake the bottle gently to homogenize the mixture.
Use
- Apply this lotion to sore areas midday, up to three times a day for fast relief. Gently massage into the skin to allow the lotion to absorb.
Synergy Pregnant women ( 3rd trimester) and children from 6 years old
This synergy combines the essential oils of True Lavender, Roman Chamomile and Ravintsara to provide gentle and safe relief from skin conditions. It is specifically designed for use by pregnant women from the 3rd trimester (6 months completed) as well as by children from 6 years old.
True lavender: soothing and regenerating
True lavender essential oil is one of the most versatile and gentle essential oils. It is rich in esters (especially linalyl acetate) and monoterpene alcohols (such as linalool). These biochemical components give it soothing, regenerative, and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Practical advice: Mix 3 drops of true lavender essential oil with a tablespoon of calendula vegetable oil. Apply this mixture gently once or twice a day to soothe skin irritations or promote the healing of small wounds.
- Precautions: Not suitable for pregnant women under 3 months, or infants under 3 months.
Roman chamomile: calming and anti-inflammatory
Roman chamomile essential oil is rich in esters, primarily isobutyl angelate and isoamyl angelate. These biochemical compounds are responsible for its anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, and calming properties. Esters, uniquely gentle and ideal for sensitive skin, are known for their ability to soothe skin inflammation and calm allergic reactions.
- Helpful Hint: Mix 2 drops of Roman Chamomile essential oil with 1 tablespoon of Calendula carrier oil. Apply this blend two to three times a day to soothe skin redness and irritation.
- Precautions: Not suitable for pregnant women under 3 months - Nor for infants under 3 months
Gentle synergy
Ingredients
- 8 drops of true lavender essential oil
- 7 drops of Roman Chamomile essential oil
- 5 drops of Ravintsara essential oil
- 20 ml of Calendula vegetable oil
Preparation
- Pour the Calendula vegetable oil into a 30 ml glass bottle. Then add the essential oils. Shake gently to mix the ingredients well.
Use
- Apply a small amount of this synergy to the affected areas twice a day. Gently massage into the skin to allow optimal absorption of the essential oils.
" I used this synergy for my daughter, who suffered from shingles at the age of 9. After consulting the doctor to make the diagnosis and in addition to an allopathic oral treatment, we were able to apply this synergy to her skin. It brought her comfort in terms of pain and itching. " - Aude Gelli
General precautions
- Dilution: Always dilute essential oils before skin application to avoid irritation.
- Tolerance test: Before use, carry out a skin tolerance test by applying a small amount of the diluted synergy to the inside of the elbow and wait 24 hours to check for an allergic reaction.
- Medical Consultation: If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have specific medical conditions, consult a healthcare professional before using essential oils. Your doctor is the only primary care provider for your health.
- Avoid mucous membranes and eyes: Essential oils can cause severe irritation. In case of accidental contact, rinse thoroughly with a carrier oil, not water. Consult your doctor.
My advice
- Daily Routine: It's important to establish a daily routine that alternates between these two lotions to maximize the benefits of the essential oils. The Complete Lotion works deep down to relieve shingles, while the Soothing Lotion offers fast, targeted pain relief.
- Customize as needed: Adjust the use of lotions according to your specific needs. For example, if you experience more pain in the morning, it's best to use the Soothing Lotion first, then apply the Complete Lotion later in the day.
- Support: Consult an aromatologist, doctor or pharmacist for additional advice or adjustments to your routine depending on the progress of shingles.
- Get enough rest: Shingles is often triggered by significant stress or a weakened immune system. Make sure you get enough rest to allow your body to fight the infection.
- Maintain good skin hygiene: Gently cleanse affected areas with warm water and mild soap. Avoid rubbing or scratching the blisters to prevent secondary infections. Essential oils should be applied to clean, dry skin.
- Eat a balanced diet: A diet rich in vitamins and minerals, especially vitamins C and D, can strengthen your immune system and speed recovery. Anti-inflammatory foods, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, can also help reduce inflammation.
- Stay hydrated: Proper hydration is essential to support your immune system and maintain skin health. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay well hydrated.
- Manage stress: Stress is a major trigger for shingles. Practice relaxation techniques like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing to reduce stress and support your recovery.
- Avoid direct contact with other people: The shingles virus can be transmitted to people who have never had chickenpox. Therefore, avoid direct contact with the blisters and be sure to cover the affected areas when around other people.
Shingles is a painful and unpleasant condition that can seriously disrupt one's quality of life. However, thanks to the antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and soothing properties of essential oils, it is possible to effectively relieve symptoms.
By using the synergy recipes suggested in this article, you can specifically target the pain, inflammation, and itching associated with shingles. Additionally, by following the general precautions and additional tips, you'll maximize the effectiveness of these oils while ensuring your safety and that of your loved ones.
Remember that everyone reacts differently to essential oils, so it's essential to proceed with care and consult a healthcare professional if necessary. By adopting a holistic approach that includes rest, a balanced diet, proper hydration, and stress management, you can strengthen your natural defenses against the shingles virus and promote a faster recovery.
Explore, experiment and find the synergies that best suit you to regain comfort and well-being.
Sources of information (bibliography):
Roger Jollois, Pierre Franchomme, Daniel Pénoël, Aromatherapy exactly, Edition Roger Jollois, March 15, 2022, 490 p. ISBN: 9782878190014
Anne-Laure Jaffrelo, Aromatherapy for Caregivers, Dunod Editions, October 23, 2019, 432 p. ISBN: 978-2100781263
Pierre Franchomme, The Science of Medicinal Essential Oils, Éditions Tredaniel, August 4, 2021, 630 p. ISBN: 978-2813224965
Emma Fontaine, Aromatherapy in the management of the most common dermatological pathologies in pharmacies. Pharmaceutical Sciences. 2023 .
Maison Jacynthe disclaims all liability. All information contained on this page is not intended to replace justified allopathic treatment or to disregard the expertise of the medical profession. It is up to each individual to take charge of their own health, to inform themselves, and to make the necessary changes to improve their condition. Therapeutic supervision by a qualified health professional is obviously recommended.
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