Genital warts trouble a lot of people.
In fact, they’re more common than you may think. In a 2012 research, the number of new cases was up to one million per year, in the US.
And, many cases remain undiagnosed.
Most genital warts are caused by HPV which has more than 120 strains. The low-risk ones, 6 and 11, are the genital wart-causing strains. These strains don’t usually cause cervical cancer.
Consulting your doctor to get treatment for genital warts is pivotal. But, you can also inquire about natural remedies that you can try at home.
We’re going to discuss the most popular ones below.
Effective Natural Remedies for Genital Warts
- Witch hazel
This astringent from the witch hazel plant is commonly used for the treatment of skin problems.
Plus, it’s mild, so it usually doesn’t cause problems with sensitive skin. In 2014, it was found that witch hazel may help with HPV type 16.
But, this wasn’t a human study so additional research is necessary. If you use witch hazel, never apply it onto mucus membranes like inside the anus or vagina.
- Garlic
In 2006, one research found garlic extract to be of aid in clearing up warts. But, this is older research and other studies are necessary.
To try it out, opt for garlic extract and apply it topically to warts. You can also soak gauze into the mixture of garlic and oil and then apply it to warts.
- Apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar may be of aid in the treatment of genital warts.
The acidic ingredients may destroy the virus. But, there’s no research on the effectiveness.
If you decide to try it out, soak a Q-tip or a gauze into some apple cider vinegar and apply it topically onto the affected areas.
- Folate and B12
Folate and B12 deficiencies have been associated with a higher risk of HPV.
Therefore, supplementing with B12 or folate may assist the body in the fight against HPV and warts.
- Certain veggies
Increasing the intake of certain veggies may help you heal warts. Opt for four to five servings of vegetables on a daily basis.
Add more cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, broccoli, cabbage, and kale. Moreover, these veggies have I3C that may help in relieving genital warts.
- Green tea
In a 2009 research, green tea was found helpful in the fight against genital warts.
You can also opt for Veregen, a prescribed ointment that has concentrated green tea. Another option is to buy green tea extract and add a drop or two of it to coconut oil and then apply it to the affected areas.
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