Medically known as herpes zoster, this is caused by the chicken pox virus which lies dormant in a nerve root and re-emerges when the immune system is low. It begins with exterme sensitivity over an area of skin - usually the ribs, neck or upper part of the face. A rash follows which blisters and then turns into a crusty scabs. Shingles can cause long-term nerve damage, so it is advisable to consult your doctor, particularly if the head or eyes are affected. The following complementary treatments will also help.

Treatment

Dietary

the following measures will help raise immunity and help fight the virus:

increase the intake of Vitamin C, found in fruit and vegetables, particullary citrus fruits, brussels sprouts, parsely and strawberries. Take a supplement of 1000 mg,, 4 times daily.

take a vitamin B complex supplement daily ot help build healthy nerve cells.

eat a well balance diet of lean meat, fish or vegetable protein, low fat dairy products, vegetables and fruit

studies have shown that supplementtation with vitamin E can relieve the long-term symptoms associated with shingles. The recomended dose is 1,400 - 1,600 iu of vitamin E daily, spread over three doses.

vitamin E oil applied directly to the sores can also help.

Aromatherapy

dab the sores with a solution of 1 cup of water with 2 drops of essential oil of lemon and geranium.

Homoeopathy

to be taken every hour for upto 4 doses and repeated if necessary.

when symptoms improve with warm bathing and with movement: Rhus toxicodendron 6c

sharp pain worse at night, patient chilly, skin better with warmth. : Arsenicum album 6c

skin burns and itches and is aggravated by warm bathing : Mezereum.

bluish tinge to blisters; pain between the ribs: Ranunculus bulbosus 6c

Prevention if you have been in touch with someone suffering chicken pox or shingles: Variolinum 30c once ever 12 hrs for three doses.

Chinese medicine H13 + sachets