Moles, fleshy, pigmented growths or blemishes on the skin, occur when cells called melanocytes grow in clusters. Most people can expect to have 10 to 40 moles by adulthood. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, moles are common and usually harmless. While new moles and moles that exhibit changes in size, shape or color should be evaluated by a dermatologist, herbal home remedies can improve the appearance of non-cancerous moles.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera, a succulent plant, contains a clear gel that has a long history as a soothing remedy for skin conditions. The leaves provide potent anti-inflammatory agents that yield valuable results when treating skin irritations. While scientific evidence is lacking regarding the efficacy of aloe as a treatment for mole removal, the website Natural-HomeRemedies.org claims that aloe ranks as one of the best home remedies for mole removal.
To use, cut a leaf off the plant, slice it open and scoop out the gel. Apply the gel on the affected areas, and cover with an adhesive bandage. Repeat the procedure every three hours for two to three weeks for best results. Little, if any, adverse effects result from topical use of aloe.
Dandelion
Best known as a weed that mars the appearance of well-manicured lawns, dandelion is a favorite folk remedy for boils, abscesses, age spots and moles. Although no scientific research or clinical analysis exists on the efficacy of dandelions in removing moles, according to Ayushveda.com, dandelions prove highly effective in the removal of warty moles. The website recommends rubbing dandelion root juice directly on your mole two to three times a day. Do not use dandelion if you have allergies to related plants, such as chamomile or yarrow.
Garlic
One of the most popular herbal remedies for all manner of ailments, garlic has gained accolades in recent years by the conventional medicine establishment as a valuable medicinal healer. Garlic contains powerful antibiotic, antiseptic and antifungal qualities particularly useful in treating moles and warts.
Although more research is needed to confirm garlic's effectiveness as a remedy for moles, MorphemeRemedies.com suggests rubbing a sliced piece of garlic on your mole until the garlic juice gets absorbed by your skin. Alternatively, you can crush a garlic clove into a paste and apply it directly on your affected areas. Performed daily, both procedures offer predicted results in three to four weeks. Do not take garlic orally for medicinal purposes without consulting a physician.
References
- Natural Home Remedies: Home remedies for Removal of Moles and Warts
- "Prescription for Herbal Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch; 2002
- Ayushveda: Moles--Useful Herbs and Ayurvedic Treatments
- Morpheme Remedies: Home Remedies for Moles
- American Academy of Dermatology: Moles
