- Essential oils that might assist in managing warts at home include neem oil, tea tree oil, cinnamon bark oil, oregano oil, frankincense oil, and clove oil.
- Consult a doctor before applying essential oils to your skin, including on warts. Some types of warts, such as genital warts, may need medical treatment and could worsen with essential oil use.
- Use a carrier oil to prevent irritation when applying essential oils to the skin. Allergic reactions to essential oils are possible, so perform a patch test before using a new oil.
Warts are raised skin growths caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). They can develop on almost any area of the body.
Warts are common, and most varieties are relatively harmless. Genital warts are the most serious and should be evaluated by a healthcare professional promptly.
Warts can be uncomfortable or painful, and many people dislike their appearance. They are contagious and can spread to other parts of your body or to other people.
One at-home option for wart care is using essential oils. Remember that essential oils should be diluted with a carrier oil before applying to the skin.
1. Neem oil
Neem oil is derived from a tropical evergreen tree often called Indian lilac. It has a long history in traditional medicine for treating conditions such as warts and cold sores.
Neem is commonly included in skincare products and used as a natural insect deterrent.
Research indicates neem oil exhibits a variety of antifungal and antiviral effects, which may be useful in wart care.
Neem oil is very strong; dilute it with a carrier oil like jojoba, which also helps reduce neem’s mustard-like scent.
2. Tea tree oil
Tea tree oil is extracted from the Australian shrub Melaleuca alternifolia. It has long been used to address various health issues, repel insects, and for household cleaning.
Tea tree is included in many cosmetics, soaps, and shampoos and is available in different concentrations—some are already diluted and ready to use.
Laboratory and clinical studies show tea tree oil has antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral activities and can promote wound healing—attributes that may help with warts.
Diluted tea tree oil can be applied directly to a wart up to twice daily. It can take several months to notice improvement.
If you have a highly concentrated formulation, dilute it with a carrier oil before use.
Tea tree oil has been associated with hormonal effects, so use caution if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or applying it to children.
Never swallow tea tree oil.
3. Cinnamon bark oil
Cinnamon, harvested from the bark of Cinnamomum zeylanicum, is a widely used spice. It contains antioxidant and antimicrobial compounds and has been used traditionally for therapeutic purposes. These traits may make cinnamon oil useful against warts.
Cinnamon oil is highly concentrated and can irritate skin if applied neat. Mix a small amount with other essential oils or with a carrier oil before applying.
Pregnant individuals should avoid cinnamon oil, as it has been used historically as an emmenagogue (it may increase menstrual flow).
4. Oregano oil
Oregano essential oil is obtained from a flowering plant in the mint family. While widely known as a culinary herb, oregano oil has long been used as a potent and flexible home remedy.
Oregano oil contains constituents with antifungal, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic effects. It also contains carvacrol, which has been researched for its antiviral activity. These properties may make oregano oil helpful for treating warts.
Oregano oil is extremely concentrated and must be diluted with a carrier oil to prevent skin irritation. Begin by using the diluted oil once daily to observe how your skin tolerates it.
Pregnant people should avoid oregano oil.
5. Frankincense oil
Frankincense is a widely used essential oil in aromatherapy and traditional remedies, with a rich history in religious and cultural rituals.
It has been applied medicinally for many conditions and used in household cleaning and personal care products.
Frankincense is known for astringent, antimicrobial, and wound-healing qualities that may be beneficial for wart treatment.
Mix one or two drops of frankincense with one to six drops of a carrier oil on a cotton pad, press it on the wart, and cover with a bandage. Repeat twice weekly until the wart resolves.
Alternatively, add a few drops of diluted frankincense to a cold compress and apply twice daily.
Avoid frankincense if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking anticoagulant medications.
6. Clove oil
Clove oil is produced from the dried flower buds of a tree native to Indonesia. Ground cloves are a common kitchen spice, and the oil has a long history as a medicinal remedy, including use for warts.
Clove oil is notable for its antiseptic qualities and its topical numbing effect, making it a suitable choice for painful warts. It may also possess some antiviral properties, adding to its potential usefulness against warts.
Apply diluted clove oil to the affected area once or twice daily.
Clove can increase the risk of abnormal bleeding and should not be used by people with bleeding disorders or those taking blood thinners.
Before you use a new essential oil
All essential oils can trigger allergic reactions. Before applying one to your skin, perform a patch test.
Mix the essential oil with a carrier oil. Place a small amount of the diluted mixture on the inside of your forearm or wrist and check the area after 24 hours for signs of a reaction.
Signs of an allergic reaction may include:
- skin irritation such as redness, itching, rash, or hives
- dizziness
- shortness of breath or wheezing
- rapid heartbeat
- anaphylaxis
Pregnant and breastfeeding individuals should consult their healthcare provider before using essential oils. Talk to your pediatrician before using essential oils on or near children. Do not use essential oils on infants. Avoid using essential oils around people with asthma.
Certain essential oils may interact with prescription and over-the-counter medications.
Essential oils can be toxic if swallowed and should never be ingested. Seek advice from a certified aromatherapist for detailed guidance.
When to see your doctor
See your doctor if your warts become increasingly painful or if they spread to other areas. A healthcare professional can offer in-office and prescription treatments that remove warts more quickly and effectively.
Genital warts are the most serious type and should be examined by a doctor without delay.
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