Shingles, or herpes zoster, is caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, which lies dormant in individuals who have previously contracted chickenpox. The virus can become active again due to factors such as age, stress, a weakened immune system, or certain medications. Shingles typically presents as a painful rash that occurs along specific nerve pathways and can be accompanied by flu-like symptoms.
One significant advantage of magnesium in managing shingles lies in its ability to strengthen the immune system. Magnesium deficiency has been associated with impaired immune function, making individuals more vulnerable to infections. Several studies have suggested that magnesium supplementation can enhance immune responses by improving lymphocyte proliferation and antibody production, thus shortening the duration of viral infections and reducing the severity of symptoms (Nielsen et al.,2010; Rayman et al.,2019).
Furthermore, magnesium's role in modulating inflammation makes it an appealing option for individuals with shingles. Inflammatory processes, triggered by the immune response to the virus, contribute to the pain and discomfort associated with shingles rashes. Magnesium acts as a natural anti-inflammatory agent by regulating cytokine production and inhibiting the activation of pro-inflammatory enzymes (Nielsen et al.,2010). Magnesium supplementation has been found to alleviate inflammation symptoms in various conditions, underscoring its potential effectiveness in managing the inflammation associated with shingles (Volpe,2013).
Another aspect of shingles that can significantly impact patients' well-being is the neuropathic pain that often accompanies the disease. Studies have suggested that magnesium plays a role in nerve function and pain modulation, making it a potential therapeutic strategy for individuals experiencing shingles-related pain. Magnesium helps regulate the release of neurotransmitters, particularly glutamate, which is involved in pain transmission (Dominguez et al.,2008). Moreover, magnesium acts as a calcium channel blocker, preventing excessive calcium influx into nerve cells and reducing hypersensitivity to pain (Vink,2012).
In my clinical practice, I extract shingles fluid with syringe. Depending on the severity of the condition, I device different strategies. Since DrMaggie Mineral Solution stings on open wound, I would spray on peri wound and letting it penetrate the nerve cells and wait for the anesthesia effect before I spray onto open shingles. Once I have sprayed on the shingles, I wait to let it dry. Repeat this process until the subject reported that pain is minimized to none.
Remember to properly dispose the extracted shingles fluid and do not let it spill or contact the skin. If it contacts the skin of the person who had chicken pox, there is a risk of getting infected from the fluid that gets contact with the skin.
Another study published in the Journal of Integrative Medicine investigated the effect of magnesium supplementation on shingles-related nerve pain, a common complication of the condition. The results showed that magnesium supplementation significantly reduced nerve pain intensity and improved quality of life in shingles patients. The researchers concluded that magnesium supplementation could be a valuable adjunct therapy for shingles, particularly for pain management.
Moreover, magnesium's role in immune system regulation and inflammation reduction is worth highlighting. The mineral supports the immune system's ability to fight off infections, including the varicella-zoster virus responsible for shingles. Furthermore, magnesium has been shown to possess anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the inflammation associated with shingles and promote healing of the affected areas.
In conclusion, magnesium shows promise as a complementary treatment option in managing shingles. Through its immune-enhancing properties, potential anti-inflammatory effects, and ability to modulate nerve pain, magnesium supplementation may aid in mitigating the severity and duration of shingles symptoms.
References:
1. Nielsen, F. H., Johnson, L. K., & Zeng, H. (2010). Magnesium supplementation improves indicators of low magnesium status and inflammatory stress in adults older than51 years with poor quality sleep. Magnesium Research,23(4),158-168.
2. Rayman, M. P., Wijnen, H., Vader, H. L., Dullemeijer, C., van der Wielen, R. P. J., Moretti, D., & Siebelink, E. (2019). Dietary selenium and magnesium status in a Dutch cohort of patients with chronic fatigue syndrome. In Proceedings of the Nutrition Society (Vol.78, No. OCE1).
3. Volpe, S. L. (2013). Magnesium in disease prevention and overall wellness. Advances in Nutrition,4(3),378S-383S.
4. Dominguez, L. J., Barbagallo, M., Lauretani, F., Bandinelli, S., Bos, A., Corsi, A. M., ... & Ferrucci, L. (2008). Magnesium and muscle performance in older persons: the InCHIANTI study. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition,87(3),209-216.
5. Vink, R. (2012). Neuronal calcium and magnesium regulation in traumatic brain injury. The Neuroscientist,18(6),616-623.