Herbal Remedies for Warts
Treating Warts
Warts are irregular skin growths caused by a viral infection. They may be single or clustered, very tiny or the size of a bean. Warts may develop on the hands, fingers, arms, face and feet. They may also occur in the larynx, affecting the voice. Common warts usually go away over time, although they can persist for more then a year and new warts can develop. These growths are not harmful but they can be painful and unsightly.
Herbal remedies for warts can speed the process of getting rid of the growths. They can also help prevent more from forming by helping the body fight the viral infection.
Topical Treatments for Common Warts
There are many herbs that have antibacterial and anti-fungal properties. They can be made into infusions or decoctions and applied to the growths. Chickweed, pau d’arco and black walnut are all useful herbs for relieving warts externally.
To make a decoction with any of these herbs use 1 teaspoon of the dried herb for every cup of water. Place the herb in a glass or ceramic pot, preferably. If using a metal pot make sure it is enameled. Bring the water to a boil and simmer for 10 minutes, covered. Strain. Dab the infusion on the wart or warts several times a day with a clean cotton cloth or cotton ball. This can be done daily until the growths are gone.
Aloe vera gel can also be used topically. Soak the warts in hot water first. Apply a small amount two to three times a day. Be sure to use pure aloe vera gel.
Herbs to Take Internally
It is also important to take care of your health to get rid of warts. There are herbs that can be used as general tonics to support the immune system and help the body deal with the viral infection. They can be taken in supplement form or as herbal infusions. The following are beneficial:
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Garlic[
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Prickly ash
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Cleavers
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Wormwood
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Poke root
Before taking herbs be sure to talk to your doctor if you have any medical conditions, are taking any medication or if pregnant or nursing.
Aside from using herbal remedies for warts to improve well-being, consider supplementing with extra vitamin C to support immune health. It is also helpful to consume more sulfur-containing amino acids; eat more eggs, onions, garlic, citrus fruits and asparagus.
Natural methods for getting rid of warts such as herbal remedies can be very helpful and effective, but they do take time to work. It is possible to have these growths removed in a doctor’s office as well. Whichever route you choose is alright as warts will not harm you. Do not however attempt to cut off a wart yourself.
References
Balch, Phyllis A. “Prescription for Nutritional Healing.” Fourth Edition (Penguin Books, 2006).
Page, Linda. “Healthy Healing: A Guide to Self-Healing for Everyone, 11th Edition” (Traditional Wisdom, 2003).
Hoffmann, David. “The Complete Illustrated Holistic Herbal: A Safe and Practical Guide to Making and Using Herbal Remedies.” (Element Books, 1996).
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