According to the CDC (Center for Disease Control and Prevention) 1 out of 3 adults will develop shingles in their lifetime. After the VZ (varicella zoster) virus has caused chicken pox, it becomes inactive but still resides in the patient’s body. It is more common in those over 50 years of age; however, in my practice, I have seen that even the younger crowd fall ill due to this bothersome virus. Contributing factors are age, stress, weak immunity, and long-term debilitating illness.
An episode of shingles may last for a few weeks. Patients typically experience a tingling sensation followed by a dull, localized pain. The kind of pain one experiences may vary in intensity from mild to intense. Some patients can also not wear clothing that irritates the skin and further intensifies the pain.
What does Chinese Medicine Call Shingles?
This painful rash has a term in Chinese that translates to a “band of fire.” Indeed, those who have had shingles will describe the burning pain that accompanies the rash. While most TCM practitioners recommend starting both conventional and alternative remedies for treating shingles, it is possible only to use a strict herbal protocol with regular acupuncture treatments. Early intervention of this sort can help reduce pain and post-herpetic complications.
After a confirmed diagnosis from a conventional healthcare provider, the patient will be prescribed antiviral medication. While these are being taken, one can also seek Chinese or other holistic treatment options. Holistic protocols do not interfere with conventional drugs and will even accelerate the healing process. It is always a good idea to inform your alternative medicine practitioner regarding the medicines you may be taking.
TCM: what causes shingles?
According to TCM, shingles are due to an imbalance of yin and yang in the body. Some practitioners describe the presence of “damp heat and wind in the body.” The root of typically shingles lies in the gallbladder and liver meridians. Oftentimes, with excess dampness, the lesions will appear on the lower part of the body. A condition manifesting as greater wind will usually appear in the upper area of the body, like the forehead, nose, eyes, etc. Excess heat in the body will present with a red, burning, and more painful rash than in damp and wind conditions.
Chinese Medicine Remedies
Recent studies have established that many patients have seen lasting relief in shingles pain using acupuncture and other Chinese herbal remedies. When used early on, both therapies have been known not only to reduce excruciating pain associated with the condition but also to reduce the chances of getting post-herpetic neuralgia. It is important to seek immediate consultation with an experienced Chinese practitioner for quicker healing and a shorter duration of treatment.
Some herbal decoctions and remedies prescribed by Chinese practitioners include Gentian for draining fire from the liver and gall bladder, along with Scutellaria and gardenia drain fire. Alisma, Akebia, and plantago seeds can help drain heat through the urine. Bupelurum for depression, licorice extracts for topical application, etc, may also be prescribed based on one’s symptoms.
We have extensive experience treating shingles at Hummingbird Wellness in Boulder, CO. We have an herbal pharmacy with several formulas that work well. Come in or give us a call to schedule an appointment.
