HPV, commonly known as human papilloma virus, is a condition silently affecting millions of people around the globe. This genital infection occurs in both men and women who are sexually active.
Some studies even suggest that around 50% of people develop this infection at some point in their lives. This infection may spread through physical intimate contact and skin to skin contact and may appear as warts on the surface of the skin. These warts may be pinkish, red colored and may appear raised and puffy than the rest of the area.
Mostly, they are treated by some medications and application of some OTC creams and ointments; however, they can also be treated very effectively by trying out some home remedies. Listed below are a few common home remedies that can be used to treat HPV and genital warts.
Effective Home Remedies For HPV
1. Onions
This versatile vegetable is known to cure genital warts occurring as a result of HPV infection in a matter of days.Sprinkle some salt over the slices of onions and let remain overnight. Extract the juice and apply on the affected area for fast relief [1]
2. Vitamin E
Vitamin E is among the best vitamins for all types of skin disorders including acne, eczema and even genital warts. Applying vitamin E oil to the affected area can speed up healing of the warts, reduce itchiness and burning sensation and also prevent the human papilloma virus from growing and infecting other areas [2].
3. Salt water
High salt concentrations do not allow harmful bacteria and viruses to grow and multiply. This is why, soaking the affected area in saltwater, or applying salt water on the affected area can benefits people suffering from genital warts occurring due to HPV infection.Gargling with salt water also helps relieve oral lesions occurring due to an HPV infection [3].
4. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar has established its use as an effective home remedy for many disorders both internal and external. In case of genital warts occurring due to an infection of HPV, it is advised to apply apple cider vinegar on the affected area gently with a cotton ball. Within a few weeks, the warts shrink and the infection is cured [4].
5. Tropical Fruits
Tropical fruits like papayas and pineapples have certain enzymes that make them among the best home remedies for HPV infection.These enzymes digest and dissolve the warts in a very short time. Apply the extracts of a papaya or a slice of pineapple to the affected area [5].
6. Figs
The milky juice that oozes out from a fig’s stem is thought to hold amazing healing properties for HPV infections. Apply the juice 2-3 times a day [6].
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7. Castor Oil
Though the mode of action of castor oil in curing HPV infection is not yet known, proponents of this home remedy suggest applying castor oil to the affected area before bathing. This is thought to cure genital warts within 15 days [7].
8. Garlic
Garlic is a rich source of anti bacterial agents, which make it one of the best home remedies for genital warts. Apply crushed garlic on the affected area for a speedy recovery [8].