There are three types of skin growths called warts. All are caused by the human papillomavious virus (HPV). Most of the time, warts are found on the fingers or nails on the skin’s outer layer. There are actually more than 60 kinds of HPV, and some of course case warts on the skin. Warts are caused by direct contact with HPV, which means they are in fact contagious. They can be spread from person to person as well or by directly touching an object that has been exposed. They can even spread on the person’s own body when in contact. Most of the time warts are harmless and disappear on their own over time.
There are 3 types of warts.
1. Plantar warts: These appear on the feet and are usually skin toned or have a light brown color that appears as a lump on the outer skin.
2. Flat warts: These warts are smoother, flatter, and smaller, and appear on the face. They are more common in teens and children rather than adults. Females commonly have flat warts on the legs.
3. Genital warts: These appear in the pubic area. They are often described looking like small pieces of cauliflower that are very small. They spread rapidly and can cause irritation and itch. HPV is the most commonly spread sexually transmitted disease in North America.
Although most warts are generally harmless, they can be treated to make them go away. It is important to note that genital warts should be checked by a doctor. Warts are persistent and like to stick around, even reoccurring post treatment. Multiple treatments might be needed. There are different treatment methods that may or may not need to be repeated. The following natural remedies can help, but there is no spot treatment that instantly removes warts. Repeated applications are needed.
1. Apple cider vinegar- soak a cotton ball in the vinegar and place it on the wart. Keep a bandage over the cotton ball for 3 to 4 hours. Repeat as needed.
2. Banana peel- tape it over the wart before you go to bed. Repeat as needed.
3. Orange peel – rub the orange peel on the area a couple times per day.
4. Pineapple – it’s actually known for skin heeling properties so you can place it on the area and tape in on to soak for 2 to 3 hours. Repeat as needed.
5. Clear nail polish – this is actually an anti-wart remedy that suffocates the areas.
6. Aloe vera – this is a healing gel used for the skin. Apply daily.
7. Castor oil and/or tea tree oil – these would be another daily regimen to use as needed.
Because warts can spread, it is important to keep them covered with a bandage. Warts also like moisture, so keep them dry. Do not pick at them. Using condoms during sexual activity is also advised. As always, hand washing is important. Not only do you not want to spread warts to others, but neither do you want them to spread on yourself. Removal is possible so take care of warts at the first sight.
Natural Wart Removal Tips (healthline.com)
