Natural Remedies and Foods That May Help Fight Off Shingles Outbreaks

Shingles is caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus responsible for chickenpox. 

Once you’ve had chickenpox, the virus lies dormant in your nerve cells, and can re-emerge later in life, causing the painful rash and nerve irritation that defines shingles. 

While medical treatment is essential during an outbreak, certain foods and natural remedies may help support your body’s immune defences and reduce the risk of recurring flare-ups.

Important: Always speak to your GP or pharmacist before starting any new supplements or remedies, especially if you are taking medication or have other health conditions.

1. Eat Foods Rich in Lysine

Lysine is an amino acid that may help reduce the activity of the herpes family of viruses, which includes the varicella-zoster virus. Increasing lysine in your diet could help shorten outbreaks or reduce their frequency.

Sources of lysine include:

Lean meats such as chicken and turkey

Fish like cod and sardines

Dairy products, particularly yoghurt and cheese

Legumes such as beans and lentils

2. Limit Arginine-Rich Foods

Arginine is another amino acid, but this one can encourage viral replication in herpes viruses. Keeping high-arginine foods in moderation may be beneficial if you suffer from frequent shingles outbreaks.

Foods high in arginine include:

Chocolate and cocoa products

Nuts and seeds

Oats and wholewheat products

3. Boost Your Immune System with Antioxidants

A strong immune system is your best defence against shingles flare-ups. Antioxidants help protect your cells from damage and support overall immune function.

Foods rich in antioxidants include:

Blueberries, blackberries, and strawberries

Leafy greens like spinach and kale

Brightly coloured vegetables such as peppers and carrots

Green tea

4. Consider Vitamin C and Vitamin E

Both vitamin C and E are powerful immune-supporting nutrients. Vitamin C aids in wound healing, while vitamin E protects nerve cells, which can be affected during shingles outbreaks.

Vitamin C sources: Oranges, kiwi fruit, bell peppers

Vitamin E sources: Almonds, sunflower seeds, avocado

5. Try Soothing Herbal Remedies

Some natural remedies may help ease discomfort during an outbreak and support recovery:

Aloe vera gel: Cooling and anti-inflammatory, useful for soothing the rash

Chamomile tea compress: May calm irritation and support healing

Lemon balm: Has antiviral properties and can be used in creams or teas

Oatmeal baths: Can relieve itching and discomfort

6. Reduce Stress

Stress is a common trigger for shingles outbreaks. Incorporating stress-reduction techniques can help keep your immune system strong. Consider:

Daily walks outdoors

Gentle yoga or tai chi

Mindfulness or meditation apps

Adequate, good-quality sleep

7. Stay Well-Hydrated

Proper hydration supports immune function and helps your body recover more quickly from viral flare-ups. Aim for around 6–8 glasses of water daily, and include hydrating foods like cucumber, melon, and soups.

When to Seek Medical Advice

Natural remedies can help strengthen your immune system and ease discomfort, but shingles should never be managed with home treatments alone. 

If you notice symptoms such as tingling, pain, or a rash, seek prompt medical attention. Early antiviral treatment from your GP can significantly reduce the duration and severity of an outbreak.

In summary:

Supporting your immune system through diet, stress management, and gentle natural remedies can be a useful part of your shingles prevention plan. Focus on immune-friendly foods like those rich in lysine and antioxidants, avoid excessive arginine intake, and keep stress levels low. Combined with medical care, these steps may help keep future outbreaks at bay.

As a sufferer from Shingles I'll be trying the above remedies to try to keep Shingles under control. 

Natural Allies Against Shingles: Foods and Supplements That Can Help

Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a painful and often debilitating condition caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. 

If you’ve had chickenpox at some point in your life, the virus lies dormant in your nerve cells and can reactivate later, especially during times of stress or weakened immunity.

Fortunately, while there’s no surefire way to prevent shingles completely, other than vaccination, certain foods and supplements can help support your immune system and potentially reduce the severity or duration of an outbreak. 

Here’s how to nourish your body to better fight off shingles.

Immunity-Boosting Foods

1. Leafy Greens

Spinach, kale, and Swiss chard are rich in vitamin C, magnesium, and antioxidants that help strengthen your immune system.

2. Berries

Blueberries, blackberries, and strawberries are packed with flavonoids and vitamin C—great for fighting inflammation and bolstering your body’s defences.

3. Fatty Fish

Salmon, sardines, and mackerel are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce inflammation and support overall immune health.

4. Sweet Potatoes

Rich in beta-carotene and vitamin A, sweet potatoes help maintain skin health—important when dealing with shingles-related rashes.

5. Garlic

This natural antiviral and antibacterial agent has been used for centuries to fight infections. It contains allicin, a compound with proven immune-boosting effects.

Foods to Avoid During a Shingles Flare-Up

Some foods may aggravate symptoms or contribute to a weakened immune response. Try to reduce your intake of:

Foods high in arginine (like chocolate, nuts, and oats): Arginine can encourage viral replication.

Highly processed foods: These often contain preservatives and low-quality fats that increase inflammation.

Sugary drinks and sweets: Excess sugar can impair immune function and fuel inflammation.

Supplements That May Help

Always check with a GP or pharmacist before starting any supplement, especially if you take other medications.

1. L-Lysine

Lysine is an amino acid that may inhibit the growth of the herpes virus. It’s often recommended to balance the effects of arginine and can be helpful in reducing the frequency and severity of outbreaks.

2. Vitamin B12

Nerve health is crucial when managing shingles. Vitamin B12 can help reduce nerve pain and promote nerve regeneration.

3. Vitamin C

A powerful antioxidant that supports immune response and tissue healing. Consider increasing your intake during early signs of shingles.

4. Zinc

Zinc plays a key role in immune defence and wound healing. A deficiency can impair your body’s ability to fend off viral infections.

5. Echinacea

This herbal supplement is thought to enhance immune function and may reduce the duration of viral illnesses when taken at the onset of symptoms.

6. Probiotics

A healthy gut microbiome supports immune function. Probiotic supplements or fermented foods like kefir and sauerkraut can help maintain gut health.

Don’t Forget the Role of Stress and Rest

Shingles often strikes when you’re run-down or stressed. A strong immune system needs more than good food and supplements—it thrives on quality sleep, regular physical activity, and stress management.

Try integrating:

Daily walks or yoga

Deep breathing exercises or meditation

A consistent sleep schedule

Time away from screens and constant stimulation

While diet and supplements aren’t a cure for shingles, they can support your body’s ability to resist or recover from an outbreak. If you’re at higher risk, due to age, chronic illness, or stress, it’s also worth talking to your GP about the shingles vaccine available on the NHS for people aged 65 and over or those with certain health conditions.

Nourish your body, nurture your nerves, and give your immune system every advantage in the fight against shingles.

You can also seek help from pharmacies under the Pharmacy First NHS scheme or by calling 111 in the UK.

Food Supplements and Other Supplements That May Help with Shingles: Natural Support for a Painful Condition

Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a painful skin rash caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus responsible for chickenpox. 

While it can affect anyone who has had chickenpox, shingles is more common in older adults and those with weakened immune systems.

Alongside antiviral medications prescribed by healthcare professionals, some people look to supplements for additional support. 

Though no supplement can cure shingles, certain vitamins and natural remedies may help strengthen the immune system, reduce inflammation, and ease discomfort. Here’s a look at some of the most promising options.

1. Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12 is vital for nerve health, and a deficiency can worsen nerve-related pain. Some studies suggest that B12—especially in the form of methylcobalamin—may help relieve the nerve pain associated with shingles and postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), a common complication where pain lingers after the rash clears.

Suggested form: Methylcobalamin lozenges 

Note: Always consult your GP before high-dose supplementation.

2. L-Lysine

L-Lysine is an amino acid that may help inhibit the replication of herpes viruses, including the one that causes shingles. It's thought to work best when taken at the earliest signs of an outbreak.

Suggested dosage: 1,000–3,000 mg daily (short-term use)

Caution: Long-term use can lead to amino acid imbalances—consult your healthcare provider.

3. Vitamin C

A powerful antioxidant, vitamin C supports immune function and helps combat viral infections. Some evidence suggests that high doses may shorten the duration of shingles and reduce the severity of symptoms.

Suggested dosage: 1,000–2,000 mg daily

Tip: Liposomal or buffered vitamin C may be gentler on the stomach.

4. Zinc

Zinc plays a crucial role in immune response. Low levels are associated with poor wound healing and increased susceptibility to infections. Supplementing with zinc during a shingles outbreak may help your body recover more quickly.

Suggested dosage: 20–40 mg daily for a short period

Note: Excessive zinc can interfere with copper absorption.

5. Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis)

This calming herb has antiviral properties and can be applied topically or taken as a tea. Lemon balm creams may help soothe the rash and promote healing when used early.

How to use: Apply lemon balm cream to affected areas 2–3 times daily

Alternative: Drink lemon balm tea to support relaxation and immune health

6. Magnesium

Shingles can cause nerve pain that lingers long after the rash disappears. Magnesium supports nerve function and may ease nerve-related discomfort and muscle tension.

Suggested dosage: 200–400 mg daily (magnesium glycinate or citrate forms are well-absorbed)

Bonus: May also help improve sleep during an outbreak.

7. Probiotics

Stress and antiviral medication can disrupt the gut microbiome. A healthy gut supports immunity, and probiotics may help rebalance your digestive system during and after a shingles episode.

Suggested strains: Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidobacterium longum

A Word of Caution

Before starting any new supplement—especially if you're taking prescription medications or have underlying health conditions—consult your GP or a qualified nutritionist. Supplements can interact with drugs or be inappropriate for certain individuals.

Final Thoughts

Shingles can be a distressing and painful experience, but supporting your body with the right nutrition and supplements may help ease symptoms and promote recovery. Pair these natural aids with plenty of rest, hydration, and a gentle skincare routine to support your healing journey.