Those Dreaded Warts: What They Are & How to Deal With Them

Those Dreaded Warts: What They Are & How to Deal With Them

We've all been there — you spot a wart and immediately wonder: Where did that come from? Can I give it to someone? How do I get rid of it? You're not alone, and there's no need to be embarrassed. Warts are incredibly common, and the good news is that most are completely harmless.

What Causes Warts?

Warts are benign (non-cancerous) skin growths caused by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) — a family of more than 60 virus strains that infect the top layer of skin. They tend to be more common in children and people with weakened immune systems, and they can take weeks or even months to develop after exposure.

Yes — warts are contagious. The virus spreads through direct contact with a wart or a surface that has touched one. Your risk is higher if you have a cut or broken skin, which gives the virus an entry point.

Types of Warts

  • Common Warts — Rough, cauliflower-like bumps with tiny black dots, usually found on hands, fingers, elbows, and knees.
  • Flat Warts — Small, smooth, and flat-topped; often appear in clusters on the face, hands, or arms.
  • Plantar Warts — Found on the soles of the feet; can feel like walking on a pebble — uncomfortable but treatable.
  • Periungual Warts — Grow around or under fingernails and toenails; can affect nail growth and may be painful.
  • Filiform Warts — Finger-like projections that typically appear around the mouth, eyes, or nose.
  • Verrucas — A type of plantar wart found on the feet.

Natural Remedies Worth Trying

Many people find relief with simple, natural approaches:

⚠️ Important: These remedies are intended for common warts on areas like the hands, feet, and knees only. Please do not use them on warts located on the face or in the genital area. The skin in those areas is especially delicate and sensitive — for those cases, it’s always best to skip the home remedies and visit your doctor for safe, appropriate treatment.

  • Aloe Vera — Apply fresh aloe vera gel to a cotton ball, secure it over the wart with a bandage, and leave it on. Aloe has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antifungal, and antiviral properties that may help slow the spread.
  • Apple Cider Vinegar — Apply directly to the wart and cover with a bandage overnight. Repeat daily until the wart disappears.
  • Banana Peel — Place the inside of a banana peel over the wart and secure overnight. Many people swear by this simple remedy.
  • Castor Oil — With its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, castor oil is a well-known natural remedy for warts and other skin conditions. Apply it directly to the wart every day — it may take two or more weeks for the wart to fall off.
  • Garlic — Crush a clove and apply it to the wart, covering with a bandage. Leave on for several hours or overnight.
  • Garlic & Olive Oil — A thin slice of garlic with a little olive oil applied under a bandage is a traditional folk remedy.
  • Tea Tree Oil — Apply a few drops directly to the wart and cover with a bandage. Repeat daily.
  • Dandelion Milk — Apply the milky sap from a dandelion stem directly to the wart several times a day. (Harvard University)
  • Vitamin A — Applied topically under a bandage, vitamin A has worked for some people (including this writer!).

These remedies may help in reducing or eliminating warts, but results can vary. Always consult with a healthcare professional if you have concerns.

Support Your Body From the Inside Out

One of the best defenses against warts is a strong immune system. Consider:

  • Eating foods rich in calcium and B vitamins — whole grains, beans, leafy greens, sea vegetables, and almonds
  • Adding antioxidant-rich foods — blueberries, cherries, and colorful vegetables
  • Enjoying green tea and yogurt daily
  • Using healthier cooking oils like coconut oil
  • Avoiding refined foods, red meat, and chemical food additives
  • Getting regular exercise — even a short daily walk makes a difference
  • Prioritizing sleep and meeting your nutritional needs (including healthy fats and vitamins)

How to Prevent Spreading

  • Wash hands thoroughly after touching a wart
  • Dry hands with paper towels (and discard them) rather than shared cloth towels
  • Do not share bar soap, washcloths, towels, or razors
  • Avoid picking at warts — this can spread the virus to other areas
  • Wipe down shared surfaces regularly

When to See a Doctor

In most cases, warts go away on their own over time — but treatment can speed things up. Common medical treatments include:

  • Salicylic acid (over-the-counter or prescription)
  • Cryotherapy (freezing)
  • Duct tape occlusion
  • Surgical removal

Most treatments require more than one session, so patience is key. If a wart is painful, changes in appearance, or you're unsure what it is, always consult a healthcare professional.

Stay tuned for more wellness tips from Debbie's Pantry!

References

  1. American Academy of Dermatology Association. Warts: Overview. aad.org
  2. Mayo Clinic. Common Warts. mayoclinic.org
  3. Cleveland Clinic. Warts. my.clevelandclinic.org
  4. National Health Service (NHS). Warts and Verrucas. nhs.uk
  5. Surjushe A, Vasani R, Saple DG. Aloe vera: A short review. Indian Journal of Dermatology. 2008;53(4):163-166. PubMed Central
  6. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Human Papillomavirus (HPV). cdc.gov
  7. Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. Natural Remedies for Warts. Harvard University.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

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