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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Is Olive Leaf Extract Effective In The Treatment Of Shingles?

I have shingles and the my doctor prescribed Valacyclovir HCL1 gram tablet three time a day and Gabapentin 300 MG capsule at night. Is Olive Leaf Extract beneficial as a cure. I have had shingles for one week now. Also I have a doctors appointment tomorrow. Any more sugestions? Thank you
Thu, 27 Oct 2016
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Anesthesiologist,  's  Response
Hello,

I understand your concern and can imagine the pain you are in. Shingles is not an easy thing to deal with. However it passes and that's good news.
Your doctor prescribed you an antiviral (since shingles are caused by a virus) and a pain killer (yes, you definitely need that).
As you may know, shingles are cause by the reactivation of the HSV virus that lies dormant for years in your spine. When the immune system, for some reason, weakens, HSV wakes up and causes shingles.
Olive leaf extract is known for its immune boosting properties, so by taking it you will be doing a favor to your immune system and telling the virus to go back to sleep. This extract will also shorten the time of the symptoms.
So I say yes, by all means take it! As long as you also continue with the medication that your doctor has prescribed you.
Taking care of your immune system by maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle, your will drastically cut the chances of shingles ever reoccurring.

Wishing you a fast recovery and all the best.
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Is Olive Leaf Extract Effective In The Treatment Of Shingles?

Hello, I understand your concern and can imagine the pain you are in. Shingles is not an easy thing to deal with. However it passes and that s good news. Your doctor prescribed you an antiviral (since shingles are caused by a virus) and a pain killer (yes, you definitely need that). As you may know, shingles are cause by the reactivation of the HSV virus that lies dormant for years in your spine. When the immune system, for some reason, weakens, HSV wakes up and causes shingles. Olive leaf extract is known for its immune boosting properties, so by taking it you will be doing a favor to your immune system and telling the virus to go back to sleep. This extract will also shorten the time of the symptoms. So I say yes, by all means take it! As long as you also continue with the medication that your doctor has prescribed you. Taking care of your immune system by maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle, your will drastically cut the chances of shingles ever reoccurring. Wishing you a fast recovery and all the best.