by Veronica Morgan

Shingles is a painful rash that can happen to anyone who had Chickenpox as a child. It is caused by the varicella-zoster virus associated with chickenpox that becomes reactivated as an adult.

The blisters and rash associated with Shingles are highly debilitating as the nerve tissues near your spinal cord and brain become inflamed and infected. Although shingles is not a life threatening illness, it is known for the discomfort and extreme nerve pain that will last as long as the virus is active.

The pain and itch from Shingles can be treated with cannabinoids.

According to the Mayo Clinic, early treatment can reduce pain and the longevity of symptoms.

Cannabis studies have shown how effective cannabinoids are for treating other forms of nerve pain. Tests on patients with shingles have had similar results.

The Michigan Medical Marijuana Association has reported great success using topical treatments. One subject reported mixing simpson (hemp) oil with Burt’s Bee’s® farmer’s salve.

He reported using one gram of hemp oil to 2 ounces (one can) of salve to reduce itching, swelling, and provide significant pain relief. Others have reported recipes on the site for more complex concoctions, which are presumably more effective.

Topical applications can provide instant relief from the pain associated with shingles.

Another study, performed by the United Patients Group recommend using which ever method of ingestion works best for each individual.

This study reports vaporizing as an ideal medium for medication delivery. Edibles and conventional smoking are also considered valuable. They also suggest that cannabis can control infections when applied topically.

A few strains seem to produce better results than others do. MedicalMarijuana.com recommends: Tangerine Kush, Snowcap, Super Skunk, Super Lemon Haze, Purple Diesel, Golden Goat, Headband, Cannadential, Haze, Banana Diesel, Blue Dream, Jack Herer, Shiskaberry, Silver Pearl, Strawberry Cough, Lemon Haze, Maui Waui, Platinum Kush, Mr. Nice, and Butterscotch.

The cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2, endocannabinoids, including THC are proving valuable medications for pain and anxiety control, and inflammation. Studies in the USA and in Australia have clearly demonstrated the benefits for neuropathy and Diabetic nerve pain.

It seems that traditional forms of treatment, such as opiate-based pain relief (hydrocodone, morphine, etc.) can be contra-indicated.

These pain relief methods can interfere with the body’s ability to fight pain, according to the United Patients Group.

By activating the CB1 receptor in the body, cannabinoids from medical marijuana can encourage neuro-protective actions that can fight inflammation and damage. There are two cannabinoid receptors in the human body (CB1 and CB2). CB1 controls the nervous system, working in the cerebellum and basal ganglia.

Several shingles related information sources have stressed that acetaminophen should be avoided, as it can actually prolong the illness.

Shingles usually appears on the trunk of the body, but can occur anywhere. If shingles break out near your face or eyes, see a doctor as the virus can cause blindness. Otherwise, if you become a victim of shingles, consider marijuana for relief of most of the major symptoms.