shingles

 Shingles and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM): Treatment with Herbs, Acupressure and Qi Gong

Shingles, also known as herpes zoster , is a viral disease caused by reactivation of the varicella zoster virus (VZV) and the herpes viruses. It presents with painful rashes that usually appear as blisters on one side of the body. Although modern medicine offers drug treatments, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) can offer a natural approach to relieving symptoms and aiding recovery. TCM works by restoring the body's energy balance, which can provide relief from shingles.

How does TCM treat shingles?

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, shingles is considered to be the result of an imbalance in the body, especially due to the entry of external "hot" energy into the body and the weakening of Qi and blood. For this reason, Chinese herbs, acupuncture, acupressure, and Qi Gong exercises are used in the treatment of shingles.

1. Chinese Herbs for Shingles

Chinese herbs are used to "clear heat," boost immunity, and improve circulation. Popular herbs for shingles include:

Jin Yin Hua (Lonicera japonica) : This herb has anti-inflammatory and antiviral effects and helps remove heat and dampness from the body.

Long Dan Cao (Gentiana scabra) : Used to clear heat and dampness, especially for skin infections.

Da Qing Ye (Isatis tinctoria) : Known for its antibacterial and antiviral effects, used to fight skin infections.

Bai Xian Pi (Dictamnus dasycarpus) : Helps treat rashes and pimples with its cooling and cleansing effects.

Sheng Di Huang (Rehmannia glutinosa) : Used to strengthen the blood and clear heat.

Simple Herbal Recipe for Shingles

Herbal Blend to Boost Immunity and Treat Shingles:

Ingredients:

10g Jin Yin Hua (Lonicera japonica)

10g Long Dan Cao (Gentiana scabra)

10g Da Qing Ye (Isatis tinctoria)

10g Sheng Di Huang (Rehmannia glutinosa)

10g Bai Xian Pi (Dictamnus dasycarpus)

Preparation:

Place all herbs in a pot and pour about 1 liter of water.

Cook for 20-30 minutes over low heat until the liquid is reduced by half.

Drink 2-3 cups daily, preferably for 7-10 days.

These herbs help clear the body of heat, strengthen immunity, and relieve the symptoms of shingles.

2. Acupressure for Shingles

Acupressure is a technique based on pressure on specific points on the body that are responsible for different body functions. In the case of shingles, the following points can be helpful:

LI4 Point (He Gu) : Located between the thumb and index finger. Helps relieve pain and supports the immune system.

Point SP6 (San Yin Jiao) : Located on the leg, a few centimeters above the ankle. Supports the body's energy balance, helps with regeneration.

ST36 Point (Zu San Li) : Located on the leg, about 4 fingers below the kneecap. Strengthens Qi energy and aids in skin healing.

Apply gentle pressure to these points for 1-2 minutes several times a day to relieve pain and speed recovery.

3. Qi Gong for Shingles

Qi Gong is a system of exercises designed to harmonize the body's energies. In the case of shingles, Qi Gong can help restore energy balance, improve circulation, and support the immune system. Here is one simple movement that can help:

Opening the Heavens Exercise :

Stand with your feet hip-width apart.

Raise your hands up as if you were trying to grab something from the sky.

Take a deep breath and stretch your body upward.

Slowly lower your arms down as you exhale, imagining that you are releasing tension from your body.

Repeat 10-15 times, focusing on your breathing and feeling the energy in your body.

This exercise improves the flow of energy in the body, supports detoxification and accelerates the healing processes.

4. Herbal Ointment for Shingles

Chinese Herb Ointment for Shingles :

Ingredients:

10g Bai Xian Pi (Dictamnus dasycarpus)

5g Zi Cao (Lithospermum erythrorhizon)

5g Huang Bai (Phellodendron amurense)

20g of Vaseline or coconut oil (to make the ointment base)

Preparation :

Grind the herbs into a fine powder.

Mix with Vaseline or coconut oil until smooth.

Apply a thin layer to affected skin 2-3 times daily.

This ointment has a cooling and anti-inflammatory effect and also supports the healing of wounds and rashes.

Summary

TCM offers a natural approach to treating shingles by combining herbs, acupressure, and Qi Gong. The herbs help clear the body of excess heat and support the immune system, acupressure relieves pain, and Qi Gong helps restore energy balance. It is important to consult with an experienced TCM practitioner before beginning treatment to determine the appropriate therapy for your individual needs.

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