Shingles is caused by reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, which remains in the body after chickenpox. It often begins with tingling, burning or pain in a band of skin, followed a few days later by clusters of fluid-filled blisters. The rash usually affects one side of the chest, abdomen or face.
Contact a pharmacist or NHS 111 as soon as possible, ideally within three days of the rash appearing. Antiviral tablets work best when started early and are particularly important for moderate or severe symptoms, a weakened immune system, or a rash outside the trunk.
When shingles needs urgent attention
Urgent assessment is needed when the rash is on the eye or nose, vision changes, the eye is painful or light-sensitive, the immune system is severely weakened, or the affected person is pregnant or under 18. Shingles around an ear with facial weakness can indicate Ramsay Hunt syndrome.
Keep the rash clean and dry, wear loose clothing and use a wrapped cool compress. Paracetamol may help pain; persistent nerve pain sometimes requires prescribed treatment. Do not allow sticky dressings to adhere to blisters.
Shingles itself cannot be passed on, but the blister fluid can give chickenpox to someone who is not immune. Until lesions have dried, avoid pregnant people without chickenpox immunity, newborn babies and people with weakened immune systems. Eligible adults should take up NHS shingles vaccination even if they have previously had shingles.
Useful supplements
Supplements should be selected for the individual rather than used automatically. Product directions and advice from an appropriately qualified professional should take precedence over general information.
| Supplement | Effects |
|---|---|
| Aloe vera | Used orally or topically in the source for a soothing, cooling effect and to support inflammatory balance. |
| High-potency vitamin B complex containing thiamine and B12 | Provides vitamins required for normal nerve function and energy metabolism. |
| Vitamin E | Provides antioxidant protection and supports normal nerve and tissue function. |
| L-lysine | An amino acid described as inhibiting viral growth. |
| Vitamin C | Supports collagen formation, skin repair and normal immune function and provides antioxidant activity. |
| Vitamin A | Supports normal immune function and skin-cell maintenance. |
| Hop alpha acids | Intended to provide natural pain-relieving support. |
Aloe vera and lysine have not been shown to eradicate varicella-zoster virus or replace antivirals. High-dose vitamin A can damage the liver and cause birth defects; vitamin E and herbs may affect bleeding; oral aloe can cause diarrhoea. Large vitamin C doses may also cause digestive upset or contribute to kidney stones.
The rash usually heals within four weeks, but pain can persist as post-herpetic neuralgia. Early antiviral assessment, good pain control and vaccination offer substantially stronger protection against complications than attempting to “fight the virus” with supplements.
Looking for personalised nutrition and lifestyle support? An FNTP member may be able to help you explore an approach suited to your individual needs. Find an FNTP practitioner.
This article is for general education and does not replace individual medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
