External warts, also known as cutaneous warts or simply warts, are small growths that appear on the skin’s surface.

They are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and can occur on various parts of the body, including the hands, feet, and genitals. Warts are usually painless and harmless, but they can be unsightly and cause discomfort or embarrassment for those affected.

Treating External Warts with Herbal Remedies

While there are various medical treatments available for warts, such as cryotherapy or salicylic acid, some people prefer to explore herbal remedies for their external warts.

These natural alternatives can be effective in many cases, offering a safe and gentle approach to getting rid of warts. Below, we discuss some herbal remedies that have shown promising results in treating external warts.

1. Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil is derived from the leaves of the Melaleuca alternifolia tree and has been used in traditional medicine for its antimicrobial and antiviral properties. It has shown effectiveness in treating various skin conditions, including warts.

To use tea tree oil for warts, apply a few drops directly to the affected area using a cotton swab. Repeat this process twice daily until the wart disappears.

2. Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is a popular home remedy for many ailments, including warts. Its high acidity can help break down the wart tissue and gradually remove it. Soak a cotton ball in apple cider vinegar and secure it onto the wart with a bandage.

Leave it overnight and repeat the process until the wart falls off.

3. Garlic

Garlic is known for its antibacterial and antiviral properties, which make it an effective remedy for warts caused by HPV. Crush a garlic clove and apply it directly to the wart, covering it with a bandage.

Leave it overnight and repeat the process until the wart disappears.

4. Aloe Vera

Aloe vera gel is widely recognized for its soothing and healing properties. It can also be beneficial in treating external warts. Apply a generous amount of aloe vera gel to the wart and cover it with a bandage.

Repeat this process several times a day until the wart vanishes.

5. Dandelion Sap

The sap from dandelion stems and leaves contains certain enzymes that can help break down the wart tissue. Collect some fresh dandelion stems and extract the sap by squeezing them. Apply the sap directly to the wart and cover it with a bandage.

Repeat this process regularly until the wart is eliminated.

6. Green Tea

Green tea is rich in antioxidants and has potent antiviral properties. Create a strong infusion of green tea by steeping tea bags in hot water. Once the tea cools down, soak a cotton ball in it and apply it to the wart.

Leave it on for at least 15 minutes before rinsing. Repeat this process twice a day for effective results.

7. Oregano Oil

Oregano oil is known for its antiviral and antibacterial properties, making it a promising remedy for external warts. Dilute oregano oil with a carrier oil and apply it to the wart using a cotton ball.

Cover it with a bandage and repeat this process daily until the wart disappears.

8. Banana Peel

Banana peels contain enzymes that can help dissolve warts. Cut a small piece of banana peel and place it over the wart, ensuring the inner side of the peel touches the wart. Secure it with a bandage and leave it overnight.

Repeat this process until the wart is no longer visible.

9. Witch Hazel

Witch hazel is a natural astringent that can help dry out warts and reduce their appearance. Soak a cotton ball in witch hazel and apply it directly to the wart. Leave it on for a few minutes and repeat the process twice a day until the wart diminishes.

10. Thuja Oil

Thuja oil, derived from the leaves of the thuja plant, has been used traditionally to treat warts. Apply a small amount of thuja oil directly to the wart using a cotton ball. Cover it with a bandage and repeat the process daily until the wart is gone.

Conclusion

While herbal remedies can be effective in treating external warts, it’s important to remember that individual results may vary.

It’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before trying any home remedies, especially if you have an underlying medical condition or if the wart is causing discomfort. Furthermore, persistence and patience are required when using herbal remedies, as warts may take several weeks or even months to disappear completely.