HPV is a common infection that affects around one in four people in the US.
This virus spreads from skin to skin or through another type of intimate contact such as anal, vaginal, or oral sex and it usually goes away on its own.
But, there are some strains of this virus that are known to trigger cervical cancer and require treatment.
Currently, there’s no cure for HPV although the symptoms can be addressed. Some types of HPV clear out on their own.
Vaccines are also available to minimize the risk of catching a high-risk strain.
The Symptoms of HPV
Warts are a common sign of an HPV infection and they may appear on the genitalia, among other areas. These flat lesions and tiny stem-like lumps may itch but don’t usually cause discomfort or pain. They may also be cauliflower-like in shape.
These warts usually grow on the vulva or inside the vagina or on the cervix. People with a penis can develop warts on the penis and scrotum. People with penises and vaginas can have warts around the anus.
Genital warts aren’t the only type of wart. There are also common, flat, plantar, and oropharyngeal ones.
Can HPV Be Prevented?
According to the American Medical Association journal, HPV is associated with being sexually active and age. The usual year range when HPV is most commonly diagnosed is between 20 and 24.
As people age, the numbers decline, and doctors believe that this is a result of individuals changing sexual partners less often. Prevention is pivotal.
One of the key protective options is to use protection during intercourse and opt for the vaccine.
Women aren’t the sole carriers of HPV, many men can also transmit it. Regular checkups with a gynecologist and PAP tests can help detect the virus early on.
After a consultation with your gynecologist, you can also make adjustments and improvements to your diet and strengthen it with foods that help the immune system fight against the virus.
Here are some of the best foods and natural, topical treatments of warts for HPV and stronger immunity:
- Citrus fruits and juices
Dealing with HPV requires strengthening the immune system so that it can fight off the virus.
With this in mind, juices from citrus fruits are rich in vitamin C and other nutrients that immunity needs. Squeeze several lemons and oranges and enjoy a cup of fresh juice every morning.
- Honey & propolis
Bee products have awesome health benefits and these can be of aid for stronger immunity.
Those with HPV should consume them regularly to diminish the strength of the virus. Consume a tbsp of propolis or honey daily, in the morning before breakfast.
You can also put it in your breakfast or in drinks.
- Tea tree oil
Did you know that tea tree oil possesses antibacterial, antifungal, and antibacterial characteristics?
Moreover, it helps fight off infections, disinfect wounds, etc. It also doesn’t cause any bad reactions on the skin and can be used undiluted.
Soak a cotton ball in a bit of tea tree oil and tap it gently onto the affected areas with warts.
- Garlic
Garlic is one of the healthiest plants in the world. Among the variety of health benefits, it also has antimicrobial properties thanks to one of its components known as allicin.
You can include it in your diet by adding it to different meals and salads. There are also garlic supplements you can opt for.
- Green tea extract
According to some studies, the polyphenols from green tea may lower the risk of some types of cancer. A prescription green tea extract ointment is approved for the treatment of genital warts.
You can consult your gynecologist before trying it so that you’re certain it doesn’t interfere with some other meds you may be taking.
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