I have had shingles outbreaks 3 times. It started with itching under my skin on my ribs. I have never had it break out in blisters or pox. The first time my Chinese doctor gave me something that worked. The last 2 times, I took homeopathic Rux Toxicodendron and it worked very quickly. It is made from Poison Oak or some plant that causes the same symptom. I have had good results from homeopathics. I do agree that the underlying issues are the immune system weakening due to poor diet, etc. and those things need to be addressed. However, they are awesome first aid for acute symptoms.