Oh, chickenpox – it’s one of those childhood experiences that can be both scary and overwhelming for any parent. I get it—you don’t want to see your little one uncomfortable, and the idea of them being covered in itchy blisters can bring up a lot of anxiety. But don’t worry—you’re not alone in this, and there’s no need to panic. I’ve been there, and I know it’s tempting to run to the doctor or start stressing about vaccines. We’ve all heard the arguments, right? The vaccine is supposed to protect against chickenpox, but did you know it’s actually a live vaccine? It’s tough to figure out what’s best. But here’s the thing: chickenpox isn’t the terrifying monster it’s sometimes made out to be. In fact, with some natural care, your child will recover in no time—and feel a lot better in the process.
Let me take a minute to remind you: for generations, chickenpox was just a normal part of childhood. Sure, it’s uncomfortable, but it does not require an emergency room visit or a vaccine to go away. It’s manageable with a little help from natural remedies, which is exactly what I want to share with you today.
What is Chickenpox?
Chickenpox is a common viral infection that results in a rash with itchy, fluid-filled blisters. The rash can start on the chest, back, or face and spread all over the body. A mild fever, tiredness, and general discomfort usually accompany it. The rash will eventually scab over, and once those scabs are dry, your child is no longer contagious. It’s usually gone in about a week, but during that time, it’s all about keeping your little one comfortable while their body does the work of getting better.
Symptoms of Chickenpox usually occur in the following order:
- Fever
- Feeling tired
- Headache
- A stomachache that lasts for one or two days
- A skin rash that is very itchy and looks like small blisters
- Bumps filled with a liquid that look like milky water
- Scabs after the blisters break
- Skin that looks blotchy
- Spots that fade away
Here’s the thing: it’s not as bad as it might seem. I know it’s tough to see your child itching and feeling lousy, but with a little love and care, they’ll be just fine. One thing I wasn’t aware of when my kiddo got chickenpox was that they could also get them inside their mouth, so that is something I like to inform people of. That was the worst part for my little one, as he was in a phase of loving cherry tomatoes for a snack. Let’s talk about how to manage things naturally and help ease the discomfort.
Natural Remedies to Ease Chickenpox Discomfort…
Oatmeal Baths
I’m a huge fan of oatmeal baths. They’re incredibly soothing for itchy skin and help calm irritation. Toss some finely ground organic oats (or colloidal oatmeal) into a lukewarm bath and let your little one soak. The oatmeal creates a barrier on the skin and helps the itching subside.
Baking Soda Paste
This one is simple but effective! Mix a little baking soda with water to create a paste and apply it directly to the itchy spots. It helps reduce irritation and soothes the skin.
Herbal Compresses
Chamomile, lemon balm, and calendula are three amazing herbs that can be brewed into a tea, cooled, and then used as a compress. Apply the cooled tea to your child’s rash to reduce inflammation and speed up recovery. It’s like a mini spa session for their skin. You can also add these same herbs to the oatmeal bath!
Honey for Healing
Raw, organic honey is naturally antibacterial and can be used on the blisters to help prevent infection. It’s such a simple, gentle way to support healing while keeping things natural.
Anti-Itch Soap
This soap combines nourishing oils infused with herbs and essential oils to create a powerful yet gentle soap for skin irritations, including chickenpox.
Modulating Immunity
Ensure your little one gets plenty of nutrient-rich foods to help support their body. Bone broth, fresh fruits, and veggies are great options. You can even give their immune system a little extra support with elderberry syrup, which is both delicious and helpful. I also recommend Earthley’s Feel Better Fast Tincture.
Rest & Hydration
Don’t underestimate the power of rest. Let your little one nap, keep them hydrated, and keep them entertained with low-key activities (think books, coloring, or quiet games). This gives their body the time it needs to heal and fight off the virus naturally. You can try adding in some electrolyte powder for an extra boost!
Addressing the Virus Naturally
Chickenpox is a viral infection, and while antibiotics are ineffective against viruses, natural remedies can help manage symptoms and support the immune system in fighting the infection.
- Oil of Oregano is a powerful tool here. It has antibacterial, antiviral, and antimicrobial properties, which can help address the viral infection at hand. It is made by infusing extra virgin olive oil with dried oregano leaves, creating a natural “antibiotic.” Many in the natural health community use it for various health benefits, including antiviral action.
- Fermented Garlic Honey also has impressive antiviral properties. It’s made by fermenting garlic cloves in honey, creating a natural antibiotic. This remedy is known for its immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties, helping to support the immune system as it fights off the virus.
Addressing Skin Rashes
The most recognizable symptom of chickenpox is skin rashes, and soothing these rashes is a priority.
- Homemade Healing Salve or Calendula Salve can be applied directly to the rash to help reduce itching and speed up healing. Both of these salves use calming, natural ingredients that can soothe the skin during recovery. Calendula, specifically, is known for helping cellular regeneration. It has been used for centuries for burns, wounds, and rashes.
- Comfrey is another amazing herb for wound healing. It’s known for its ability to promote the body’s natural healing processes. It is commonly used for abrasions and rashes due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Studies have shown that topical comfrey cream can help regenerate skin cells in as little as 4-7 days.
- Calendula also helps by increasing collagen formation, which is vital for recovery from wounds. Additionally, it’s antioxidant-rich, which protects the skin from oxidative damage.
You can also look for products like Earthley’s Anti-Itch Soap, All-Purpose Salve, or Sun Soothe if DIY herbal remedies aren’t your thing. These natural alternatives can help manage the itching and discomfort without the need for harsh chemicals.
When to Seek Medical Help
Now, I know this part can be tricky. If your child is showing signs of a high fever that won’t go away, or if you notice any unusual symptoms like difficulty breathing or confusion, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider. But for most kids, chickenpox is mild and manageable with these natural remedies. You can always refer to my blog on How to Handle Fevers Naturally for more tips on fever management.
A Little Extra Reminder
While caring for your little one, just remember that chickenpox is contagious until all the scabs have dried up. So, it’s best to keep your child away from others—especially those who are elderly or immunocompromised—until they’re no longer contagious.
At the end of the day, mama, I just want you to know that you’ve got this. Chickenpox can be tough, but it’s a temporary thing, and your little one will come through it even stronger. Trust your instincts, keep them cozy, and lean on these natural remedies to make the process as smooth as possible. You’re not alone in this journey. With a bit of love, patience, and the right remedies, your child will be back to their energetic self in no time.
Disclaimer: This post is not intended to be medical advice. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA, and nothing in this post is intended to diagnose, treat, or cure anything. Always consult with a healthcare provider if you have concerns.
