If you’re one of the many people who have experienced warts, you’ll understand the annoyance of having one appear. While usually benign, common warts are contagious and can be contracted through direct skin-to-skin contact, so it’s important to treat them as they appear. It is possible to have them removed by a dermatologist, however this can be a costly process and is often unnecessary. If your warts are not painful, you could try some at-home remedies to treat them naturally.
What is a wart?
A wart is a small growth on the skin caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). It can appear on any part of the body. The virus can be spread through physical contact and can develop into a wart. It’s important to seek treatment to prevent spreading the virus, regardless of whether you are experiencing pain or not.
Treatment
There are a number of wart treatment options available. From over the counter options to visiting a dermatologist to have them removed. If your warts are not severe there are some natural at home remedies you can try. Many essential oils are known to possess antiviral properties which can work to kill the virus and prevent further spreading.
Top essential oil for warts
Tea Tree Essential Oil
Tea tree essential is well known as a natural antiseptic, but it also has antiviral and anti-fungal properties. This makes it a great natural remedy for clearing up warts, as it will fight against the virus.
To use, we recommend mixing with a carrier oil before applying to the skin. Simply mix 1 drop of essential oil with 5ml carrier oil such as coconut oil and apply to the affected area up to 2 times a day.
Clove Essential Oil
Well known as an analgesic, Clove Bud essential oil is excellent for relieving the pain that can be caused by warts. Clove Bud essential oil is a powerful antiseptic and can be used to treat bacterial, fungal and viral infections. This can help to kill the virus and prevent the warts from spreading further.
Clove oil must be diluted before applying to the skin, as its high potency can cause further irritation. We recommend mixing 1 drop of essential oil with 5ml carrier oil before applying to the skin.
Cinnamon Essential Oil
Another essential oil with antiseptic properties, cinnamon essential oil can help to fight off infections, treating and preventing warts.
Cinnamon oil is quite potent, so we recommend combining with a carrier oil before applying to the skin. Mix 1 drop of essential oil with 5ml carrier oil and apply to the affected area.
Lemongrass Essential Oil
Lemongrass is a versatile essential oil, with antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties. Its antiviral properties will work to kill the virus that causes warts, and will prevent them from spreading further.
Similarly to the other oils, we recommend combining with a carrier oil before applying to the skin. Mix 1 drop of essential oil with 5ml carrier oil and apply to the affected area.
Safely using essential oils
When using essential oils, please follow the instructions provided to ensure you do not further damage your skin. Many oils contain a high potency, and cannot be used directly on the skin. While most warts do not require a visit to the doctor’s office, some people may experience a more severe reaction. If symptoms persist, or are worsening, please see your doctor. Please note the above recommendations do not apply to genital warts, so please see your doctor for medical advice.
Author: Alissa Geddes
Aromatherapist
Alissa is a fully qualified Aromatherapist with further qualifications in Remedial Massage & Myotherapy. She qualified as an Aromatherapist in 2005 and has worked in hospitals, day spas and in clinical practice. Alissa contributes her extensive knowledge to ECO. and helps with detailed education to our ECO. community. Alissa is passionate about assisting and teaching others how to restore and maintain their health and wellbeing.
