If you have never used essential oils, perhaps now is the time to try them! Essential oils have been used for pain and healing for thousands of years due to their medicinal and therapeutic properties, and today they are still used for the same purpose!
Essential oils are used by different holistic and alternative medicine practices for relieving and healing shingles. The use of essential oils can help alleviate symptoms of this condition. Here are some of the benefits:
- Numb and reduce pain through their cooling effects.
- Reduce inflammation and swelling.
- Help fight infections.
- Promote skin regeneration.
- Reduces symptoms of stress and anxiety by promoting relaxation.
Essential Oils for Pain and Healing
Here are the top essential oils that can help with pain and healing for shingles:
Tea Tree Oil
This is an all-time favorite for many people and withr very good reason! Tea tree oil has antiviral properties. It contains compounds like terpinen-4-ol that can help slow down or reduce the activity of the varicella-zoster virus. It can also help prevent secondary bacterial infections on the skin.
Peppermint Oil
Peppermint oil provides a cooling sensation on the skin. It contains menthol that can provide quick relief from the burning and itching associated with shingles. The menthol can also work as a mild anesthetic, therefore it can help reduce the pain in the affected area.
Lavender Oil
Lavender oil is known for its calming effects on the skin and the mind. It can help soothe irritated skin and promote relaxation, which is beneficial for overall healing. It can also aid in the regeneration of skin tissues so your blisters and sores will heal.
Chamomile Oil
Chamomile oil is anti-inflammatory. It contains compounds like azulene and bisabolol, which reduce inflammation and redness. It can also help soothe irritated skin and relieve the pain and discomfort caused by shingles. It’s gentle and a good option for sensitive skin and areas.
Eucalyptus Oil
Another oil many people have in their medicine cupboard. Eucalyptus oil contains eucalyptol, which has analgesic (pain-relieving) properties. It can help alleviate the pain associated with shingles. It also has antiviral effects, which can help inhibit the viral activity of shingles and promote faster healing.
How to Use Essential Oils for Shingles
Using essential oils on the skin requires precaution. You need to use what is called a carrier oil when applying. Here are some important tips to remember:
- Dilution – Always dilute essential oils with carrier oil (e.g., coconut, olive, or almond oil) before applying them to the skin to prevent irritation.
- Patch Test – Test a small amount on your skin first to ensure you don’t have an allergic reaction to the oil.
- Application – Apply the diluted oil to the affected area 2-3 times a day for relief and healing.
Avoid applying essential oils to broken skin or open blisters. You can apply essential oils for shingles at different stages, but it’s important to do so carefully. Always monitor your skin’s reaction. If irritation occurs, of course, stop using them! If you have any underlying health conditions, it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional before using essential oils too.
How to Use Essential Oils for Emotional Well-Being
Having shingles, particularly experiencing the pain it brings, can have an emotional impact on you. The discomfort and intense pain can lead to stress, anxiety, and mood swings. Essential oils can help you calm down and relax. They also promote better sleep, uplift your mood, and boost your energy.
The best essential oils for emotional support include the following:
- Lavender – Calms anxiety, promotes relaxation, and improves sleep.
- Chamomile – Soothes nerves and reduces stress.
- Frankincense – Boosts your mood and promotes a sense of peace.
- Ylang-Ylang – Reduces stress and promotes relaxation.
- Lemon – Gives your mood a lift and boosts your energy.
- Orange – Boosts mood and reduces anxiety.
Here’s how you can use these essential oils to help manage your emotional health and help reduce the emotional impact shingles may have on you.
Aromatherapy
Simply add a few drops of essential oil to a diffuser and let it fill your room with a calming scent.
Topical Application
You can dilute essential oils with a carrier oil and gently massage them onto your temples, neck, or wrists. This can provide both physical and emotional relief. You can also add a few drops of essential oil to a warm bath. Oils like lavender and chamomile are especially good for relaxation.
Personal Inhaler
You may create a personal inhaler by adding a few drops of essential oil to a small container or roller bottle. Putting a few drops on a hanky is good too. You can carry this with you and use it whenever you need a calming boost.
Essential oils are great for many things! However, knowing they may be helpful in managing shingles pain and promoting faster healing could be a very good reason to try some or all of them. Just remember to follow the safety precautions to avoid unnecessary irritation to your skin.
