Warts are unsightly growths on the skin that arise from a viral infection. Plantar warts appear on the soles of your feet, forming cauliflower-like clusters that are flattened due to walking. Small but visible black dots may appear, which help identify these warts. In children, plantar warts may disappear on their own. Warts that cause pain and begin multiplying should be treated, notes the American Academy of Dermatology. Herbs are a viable option, but always discuss herbal treatments with your doctor.
Garlic
Garlic is an edible bulb that is a popular food flavoring. Also touted for its medicinal benefits, garlic is used to help treat and prevent such diseases as cancer. As a plantar wart remedy, a slice of fresh garlic can be applied to the wart and secured with tape. And while its efficacy at treating fungal infections is proven, its effectiveness against warts is still uncertain, according to MedlinePlus.
Green Tea
Green tea, derived from the Camellia sinensis plant, is a widely used herb with antioxidant properties. Prepared as a beverage or extract, green tea is useful for increasing mental alertness and treating a variety of conditions ranging from cancer to diseases of the heart and blood vessels, explains MedlinePlus. For plantar wart removal, purchase green tea extract capsules over the counter and take them in dosages of 250 to 500 mg daily to receive their antioxidant benefits, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Cat's Claw
Cat's claw, a centuries-old herb used in South America, is a powerful immune-boosting herb derived from the inner bark of the cat's claw vine. Its uses include treating conditions such as Alzheimer's disease, cancer and arthritis. It's also purported to fight viral infections, and can be applied topically or taken in standard extract form. UMMC recommends consuming standardized extracts of 20 mg, three times daily. You can find cat's claw supplements online or in health food stores. Results are unproved, however. In addition, cat's claw may interfere with some medications and is considered unsafe for pregnant women or those who are trying to become pregnant, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine.
