Chickenpox is a highly infectious disease which causes characteristic small fluid filled vesicles on the body and a very itchy rash. Although this condition is not life threatening, it can cause severe discomfort and make you confined to your bed for at least 1-2 weeks. These 21 home remedies for chickenpox are definitely worth a try to help you recover fast and get you back on track.
What Is Chickenpox?
Chickenpox is caused by a virus called Varicella Zoster Virus. It is highly contagious and easily transmitted from person to person by droplet infection and infected objects or clothes. It causes very characteristic symptoms like a very itchy rash which makes it easy to diagnose.
Symptoms Of Chickenpox:
Here are some of the common symptoms of Chickenpox:
- High Fever (100F).
- Body Pains like chest pain and joint pains.
- Red, Itchy Rashes.
- Loss Of Appetite.
- Irritability and fatigue.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Sore throat.
- Diarrhoea.
- Localised swollen lymph nodes.
- Runny nose.
Home Remedies Treatment For Chickenpox:
Are you tired of the itchy lesions all over your body? Want to try some natural home remedies with zero side effects for chickenpox?
Let’s find here the top 21 natural remedies for chickenpox treatment at home. (1) (2)
1. Oatmeal Bath for Chickenpox:
One of the main problems of Chickenpox is the burning and itching sensation of the skin. Oatmeal reduces irritability to a large extent because of the beta glucans present in it, which reduce inflammation and soothe the skin. You can use branded oatmeal baths or make a homemade bath with fresh oatmeal. This is the best home remedy for chickenpox.
Ingredients Needed :
- 1 cup of oatmeal.
How To Use?
- Take a tub full of lukewarm water and add a cup of oatmeal to it.
- Soak in the oatmeal mixed water for half an hour.
- Pat yourself dry and do not rub your skin vigourously.
How Often Should I Do This?
- This can be done once or twice a day to alleviate itching.
See More: Home Remedies For Heartburn
2. Turmeric for Chickenpox:
Turmeric has been used since ages for its anti-inflammatory properties for numerous skin conditions. It contains a compound called curcumin, which has antiseptic and healing properties. It alleviates the itching associated with the rash and also prevents the formation of scars.
Ingredients Needed :
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder.
How To Use :
- Mix 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder with a little water to form a smooth paste. Apply it all over the lesions and let it dry. Wash after an hour and pat dry.
- You can also add 2-3 teaspoons of turmeric powder to your bath water and soak in it for a while to reduce itching.
How Often Should I Do This :
- Use this remedy once or twice a day for best results.
See More: Home Remedies For Heartburn
3. Baking Soda for Chickenpox:
Baking soda can use as a home remedy for chickenpox to help soothe the rash and alleviate the severe itchiness associated with the condition. It removes germs and helps in quick healing. Baking soda baths especially provide comfort to children when given regularly with lukewarm water.
Ingredients Needed:
- 1 teaspoon of baking soda.
- One glass of water.
- 1 sponge.
How To Do?
- Mix one teaspoon of baking soda in a glass of water and use a sponge to wipe this liquid on the skin.
- You can also add 2 teaspoons of baking soda to a tub of lukewarm water and soak in it for an hour to reduce itchiness.
- Pat yourself dry, do not rub the skin.
How Often Should I Do This?
- The bath can be done ideally once a day to soothe the skin.
4. Apple Cider Vinegar:
Apple cider vinegar is known for its skin soothing properties which gives you visible results in a couple of days. It is also one of the best ways to prevent scarring that is usually a bothersome side effect of chickenpox. It is an effective solution to treat itchiness and also reduce the occurrence of scars on the body.
Ingredients Needed:
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar.
How To Use?
- Add the vinegar in a tub full of water and soak in it for 10 minutes.
How Often Should I Do This?
- This can be done once a day.
Who Should Avoid?
- Avoid if your skin is sensitive or allergic to ACV.
5. Honey :
Honey has excellent antiseptic and moisturizing properties. Study shows that honey has significant anti viral effect on the varicella virus (3) . It prevents scarring and also soothes the itching sensation of chickenpox while healing the lesions.
How To Use:
- Apply some good quality organic honey all over the affected areas and leave it on for an hour. Wash off and pat dry.
How Often Should I Do This?
- This can be done 2-3 times a day.
See More: Home Remedy For Bedwetting In Children
6. Aloe Vera :
Aloe vera has anti-inflammatory and moisturing properties which help in soothing the itchy lesions and promote quick healing.
Ingredients Needed:
- 1 big aloe vera leaf.
How To Use :
- Slice the leaf and scoop the gel from inside.
- Apply this gel onto the rashes and leave it on for an hour.
How Often Can I Do This?
- Apply this gel 2-3 times everyday for effective results.
7. Green Peas :
Green peas are used for quick healing of skin infections and blisters. They fight inflammation and reduce itching as they are rich in folic acid and vitamin-B6.
Ingredients Needed:
- 200 gms of green peas.
How To Use :
- Boil the peas in water for 15 mins.
- Grind them into a smooth paste.
- Apply this paste onto the rashes and leave it on for an hour.
How Often Can I Do This?
- This home remedy can be tried once everyday.
8. Neem Leaves For Chickenpox:
Indian lilac, also known as neem is one of the best natural home remedies for the treatment of itchy chickenpox. It has antiviral properties and reduces the chances of scarring and skin blemishes. It helps purify the blood and intestines and help the body heal properly.
Ingredients Needed:
- A bunch of fresh green neem leaves.
How To Use?
- Boil fresh Neem leaves in water for half an hour.
- Soak in the neem water for half an hour and bathe with that water.
- Neem leaves also help in quick recovery from scars and blemishes.
How Often Should I Do This?
- This can be done once or twice a day for fast results.
Who To Avoid?
- It is usually safe on all skins, but check for allergy first before applying.
See More: Remedies For Belching
9. Herbal ( Chamomile ) Tea :
For adults, the consumption of herbal tea with chamomile helps in soothing the body and flushes out toxins from the body. It also has cooling and anti-inflammatory properties. Chamomile, honey and a little lemon can be added to the liquid before consumption. Although it is not a direct treatment, it can help in calming down your restless mind and soothe the body.
Tip: Chamomile tea works wonders to help you relax and get some good sleep.
10. Sandalwood:
During chickenpox, sandalwood paste helps by drying out your red blotchy patches and soothes the irritated skin. Red sandalwood powder effectively reduces scarring and reduces the marks.
Ingredients Needed:
- 1 teaspoon of.
- Sandalwood powder.
How To Use?
- Make a paste with sandalwood powder and apply it to the affected areas. Wash off after an hour and pat dry.
Who Should Avoid?
- Avoid purchasing artificial, chemical-based powders. Freshly extracted sandalwood paste usually is suitable for everyone.
How Often Should I Do This?
- This remedy can be tried once a day.
11. Epsom Salt:
Epsom salt is quite effective in the treatment of chickenpox rashes. Its magnesium and sulphate content help relieve pain and inflammation. It reduces itchiness and soothes the skin. It aids in steady healing and helps the lesions dry out quickly.
Ingredients Needed:
- 1 cup of Epsom salts.
How To Do?
- Dissolve 1 cup of Epsom salt in a tub full of lukewarm water.
- Soak your body in the salt water for 10-15 minutes.
- Pat yourself dry, do not rub too hard.
How Often Should I Do This?
- This can be done once every 3-4 days.
Who To Avoid?
- Avoid using Epsom salts if you experience a burning sensation after using it.
12. Vitamin E Oil :
Vitamin E removes the dead skin cells from the skin surface and promotes the regeneration of the skin. It moisturizes the skin and improves skin elasticity. It helps in reducing scarring due to its antioxidant properties.
Ingredients Needed:
- Vitamin E capsules.
How To Use :
- Apply vitamin E oil over the affected areas.
- Leave it on for an hour.
How Often Should I Do This?
- Apply this around 2-3 times a day.
13. Coconut Oil For Chickenpox:
Coconut oil is a rich source of essential nutrients that will help you deal with the painful rashes, soothing the redness and swelling. This oil helps in drying out the rashes quickly and also soothes itching with its anti-bacterial and moisturizing properties.
Ingredients Needed:
- 1 cup of coconut oil.
How To Use:
- Apply coconut oil over the affected areas gently and leave it on for an hour. Wash off and pat dry.
How Often Should I Do This?
- This can be done once a day for better results.
Who Should Avoid?
- Avoid using this treatment if you experience any irritation or aggravation of lesions with coconut oil.
14. Coconut Water:
Coconut water helps you keep your insides cool and also works as a disinfectant and a healer to keep your itchy rashes at bay. It soothes irritated skin and also moisturizes it. It has antimicrobial properties which prevent scarring and blemishes. Fresh coconut water is a best home remedy to relieve from chickenpox.
Tips: Always use fresh coconut water instead of the refrigerated or preserved varieties.
Ingredients Needed:
- 1 cup of fresh coconut water.
How To Use :
- Apply the coconut water over the affected areas and leave on for an hour.
- You can also add the coconut water to a tub full of lukewarm water and soak it in.
How Often Should I Do This?
- This remedy can be effectively used once a day.
15. Ginger Treatment For Chickenpox:
Ginger is an anti-bacterial spice which has prolific anti-inflammatory properties. Not only does it soothe the swelling and redness associated with chickenpox but also dries out the rashes for a speedy recovery.
Ingredients Needed :
- 1 inch piece of ginger.
- One teaspoon honey.
- 1 teaspoon lime juice.
How To Use?
- Boil a small piece of ginger in a cup of water.
- Add honey and lime juice to the decoction.
- Consume it warm.
How Often Can I Do This?
- This home remedy can be tried once everyday for best results.
16. Lacto Calamine:
Lacto calamine is a healing medicinal lotion that is used for various skin ailments for its healing properties. It is mild and gentle on the skin and stops the itchiness immediately. It soothes the rashes and prevents extensive scarring along with moisturizing the skin.
Tip: Make sure that you check for the expiration date to avoid side effects.
How To Use :
- Apply the Lacto calamine lotion all over the affected areas and leave it on till it gets absorbed into the skin thoroughly.
How Often Should I Do This?
- Calamine can be applied 2-3 times a day over the itchy areas.
17. Boiled Guava Leaves :
Guava leaves are often used in ayurvedic medicine for skin infections. They have antimicrobial properties and reduce scarring of the skin due to their high vitamin C content.
Ingredients Needed:
- 10-12 guava leaves.
- 1 cup of water.
How To Use :
- Boil the guava leaves for about 15 minutes.
- Strain this liquid and drink when warm.
How Often Can I Use This?
- Drink this liquid 2-3 times a day.
18. Green Tea For Chickenpox:
Quick healing of chickenpox is possible with green tea as home remedy. The natural herbal properties in green tea cleanse your system from the inside flushing out the toxins so that you can heal fast and steady.
How To Use :
- Drink a cup of freshly brewed green tea once or twice a day.
Tip: Do not consume more than 2-3 cups per day to avoid acid refluxes and stomach upset.
19. Calendula ( Marigold ) Paste:
Calendula is a medicinal herbal flower, which has potent anti-inflammatory properties. It helps in alleviating the itching and burning due to the rash. It also gently soothes the skin and helps in speedy healing of the rash.
How To Use :
- Apply fresh calendula paste on the painful rashes. Leave it on for half an hour and wash it off. Gently pat dry.
How Often Should I Do This?
- This home remedy can be tried every 3-4 days.
20. Lemon And Honey Morning Drink:
Include this energy drink in the morning for speedier recovery from chickenpox. Lime being a citrus fruit is rich in antioxidants and vitamin C while honey is nature’s natural healing agent and provides energy. Both help in flushing toxins out from the body while healing the body from inside out.
Ingredients :
- 1 teaspoon lime juice.
- One teaspoon honey.
- 1 glass of water.
How To Use :
- Add the honey and lime juice to lukewarm water and consume.
Tip: Consume this lemon and honey drink on an empty stomach early in the morning for a better cleansing effect.
21. Tea Tree Oil For Chickenpox:
Tea tree oil has anti-inflammatory properties which can aid in soothing the painful rashes while giving you instant relief. It reduces itching, scabbing and scarring significantly. It also has antimicrobial and healing properties for quick recovery.
Ingredients Needed:
- 4-5 drops of tea tree oil.
- 1 teaspoon of coconut oil.
How To Use :
- Combine the tea tree oil with coconut oil and apply it on the affected areas.
- Leave it on for an hour and wash off.
How Often Can I Use This?
- This can be applied once every 2-3 days.
Tip: Never apply tea tree oil directly on the skin. Always use it with carrier oils like coconut or olive oils.
Chickenpox Diet :
Chickenpox can be extremely uncomfortable, including gastrointestinal problems. It is essential to follow a healthy diet for speedy recovery. Eat fresh fruits, juices and teas in plenty. Avoid excessive salt intake as it might irritate sores in the mouth. Avoid fatty food intake, which can cause inflammation and slow down healing. Also, avoid spicy foods which might irritate and inflame any oral chickenpox sores.
We hope these 21 home remedies for chickenpox prove beneficial for you! Please note that these remedies are just tried and tested by many users on the internet and are not totally approved by doctors and do come with a little amount of risk. However, do let us know which home remedy worked out the best for you !!
Disclaimer: Please be advised that the information provided in this article is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you suspect you have chickenpox, please consult your nearest healthcare provider immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. What Are The First Signs Of Chickenpox?
Ans. Chickenpox, as we all know, is caused by the Varicella Virus. It enters the system through various means, usually from an infected person. The virus takes about 14-16 days to incubate in the body. Initial symptoms of chickenpox include generalized feeling of unwell, fatigue, fever followed by the appearance of the rash.
2. Who Is Most Likely To Get Affected By Chickenpox ?
Ans. Usually, chickenpox can affect anyone, but the ones who are the most susceptible are infants and children, pregnant women and people with impaired immunity.
3. Which Medication Should Be Avoided In Children With Chickenpox?
Ans. Aspirin or ibuprofen should be avoided in children affect ted with chickenpox as it can lead to a serious complication like Reye”s syndrome. Ibuprofen may also cause severe secondary infections in children.
