Introduction

Warts are small, non-cancerous growths on the skin caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). Although they can be unsightly and sometimes uncomfortable, warts are generally harmless. Conventional treatments for warts include freezing, salicylic acid, and surgical removal, but many people prefer to try natural remedies. One such natural remedy is using garlic, which is celebrated for its antiviral properties. In this article, we will explore five ways you can remove warts naturally using garlic.

1. Garlic and Duct Tape

For this method, you will need a fresh garlic clove and some duct tape. Start by crushing a clove of garlic to extract its juices. Apply the crushed garlic directly to the wart, making sure it’s covered entirely. Now secure the area with a piece of duct tape and leave it overnight. The next day, remove the duct tape and rinse off any residual garlic. Repeat these steps for a few days until the wart starts to diminish.

2. Garlic Paste

To make garlic paste, crush a few cloves of fresh garlic in a mortar and pestle or simply mince them finely and mix with a little water to form a thick paste. Apply the paste directly to the wart and cover it with a bandage or gauze overnight. Repeat this process daily for up to two weeks until the wart falls off or noticeably reduces in size.

3. Garlic Juice

Obtain some fresh garlic juice by crushing several cloves of garlic and straining out the juice through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth. Use a cotton swab or clean cloth to dab the juice directly onto the wart two to three times daily for up to two weeks.

4. Garlic Oil

You can use store-bought garlic oil or make your own by infusing fresh crushed garlic cloves in olive oil or coconut oil for at least 24 hours. Once you have your garlic oil, apply a few drops directly to the wart and gently massage the area with your fingertips. Do this daily for at least one week, or until the wart peels off.

5. Garlic and Apple Cider Vinegar

This method combines two potent antiviral ingredients: garlic and apple cider vinegar. Crush a fresh garlic clove and mix it with 1 part apple cider vinegar and 2 parts water. Soak a cotton ball or pad in the mixture and apply it to the wart. Cover with a bandage and leave on for a few hours before rinsing. Repeat this process daily for up to two weeks.

Conclusion

The effectiveness of garlic in removing warts may vary depending on individual skin types, wart location, size, and how long you’ve had the wart. While using garlic is generally safe, it’s important to note that direct contact with undiluted garlic may cause skin irritation or burns in some people. Always patch test on a small area before applying any remedy to larger areas of your skin. If you experience pain, swelling, or infection after removing a wart using these methods, consult with a healthcare professional immediately. Always remember that consistency is key, so choose one method and stick with it for the best results. Good luck in your natural wart-removal journey!