Warts are harmless growths on the skin caused by an infection of human papillomavirus (HPV).

Warts are contagious via touch or contaminated surfaces. They may go away on their own, but it can take weeks to months.

Conventional treatments include chemical peels, surgery, freezing, and laser surgery, but these treatments do not appeal to everyone. So, another option is to try natural home remedies for warts.

Please note: If you have genital warts or warts on your face, do not try these remedies because the skin in these areas is more sensitive, so please visit your doctor instead.

Verrucas: Verrucas appear on your feet. They have tiny black dots under the hard skin. Like warts, they are also caused by viral infection.

Natural remedies for warts & verrucae

Alliderm Gel (30ml): Allicin, a key component of garlic, has antimicrobial effects and is often studied for its antiviral and immunomodulating properties[i].

Dandelion (Taraxacum) Drops: Dandelions have antimicrobial properties, which may be useful for fighting warts, but more research is needed to confirm[ii]. Dandelion applied to skin may be beneficial.

Vitamin C:

Vitamin C has immune-boosting properties and is essential for wound healing and healthy skin tissue. Higher amounts of Vitamin C consumption are associated with improvements in persistent HPV infection, but more reliable[iii].

Vitamin E

This vitamin is vital for a healthy immune system[iv]. Alike vitamin C , it is thought to improve your body’s reaction to HPV, this is from anecdotal evidence.

Bee propolis

Bees produce a resin-like substance called propolis. It’s comprised of plant substances, beeswax, pollen, and bee enzymes.

Research suggests that Propolis has antiviral properties and promotes skin cell production. It’s used to treat acne, wounds, and the herpes simplex virus. These benefits may also help heal infected skin and fight HPV[v].

To use propolis, apply it on the wart. Place a bandage on top and leave overnight. Repeat daily.

Tea tree oil

Tea tree oil has powerful antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties and is used to treat skin conditions like acne and athlete’s foot.

Some methods suggest applying tea tree oil on the wart, but please remember undiluted oil can cause skin irritation. You should always dilute it first.

To do so, combine 1 to 2 drops of tea tree oil with 12 drops of a carrier oil, like almond oil or castor oil.

Add 3 to 4 drops of this mixture on a cotton ball. Place it on the wart for 5 to 10 minutes. Repeat two or three times a day.

If you experience irritation, you might need to dilute it even more.

Castor oil

Castor oil has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties and is used as a natural remedy for warts, ringworm, dandruff, and other skin conditions.

Apply castor oil on the wart every day. It might take two or more weeks for it to take effect.

Thuja

Thuja has antiviral actions and has been seen in case studies to successfully treat verrucae caused by the human papillomavirus-driven verruca vulgaris virus