Human papillomaviruses, or HPVs, are a group of viruses that may cause warts. Most of the 100 or so types of HPV do not cause serious health consequences, although about 30 types may increase your risk for certain types of cancer. The injurious forms of HPV typically target your genitals and are contracted through sexual intercourse with an infected individual. Herbs may be a helpful adjunct therapy in the treatment of your HPV, but you should meet with your doctor before using herbs to discuss possible risks and side effects.
Human Papillomavirus
Various kinds of HPV infection may cause warts to appear on different parts of your body, including your feet, genitals, hands or face, states MayoClinic.com. Your likelihood of developing an HPV infection may be greater if you have had numerous sex partners, are an adolescent or young adult, have a weakened immune system, or have areas of damaged skin. Some of the most common signs and symptoms associated with HPV infections include common warts, plantar warts, flat warts and genital warts.
Beneficial Herbs
There are many herbs that may be beneficial in warding off warts caused by HPV while combating the virus itself. Astragalus, notes Phyllis A. Balch, a certified nutritional consultant and author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," helps protect your immune system and helps fight the onset of HPV-related warts. Other herbs that have historically been used in treating this condition include aloe vera gel, black walnut, chickweed, goldenseal and myrrh and essential oils of clove, lemongrass, peppermint, tea tree and wintergreen.
A Useful Remedy
Black walnut may be one of the most useful remedies in treating your HPV and warts. Balch notes that black walnut possesses healing properties and may be especially effective in treating warts in your mouth and throat. Black walnut has antiseptic, astringent and anti-fungal properties, reports naturopathic physician Sharol Tilgner, author of "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth." Various parts of the black walnut tree may be used medicinally. Talk to your doctor before using black walnut to treat any medical condition.
Disclaimer
If you are diagnosed with HPV, discuss various treatment methods with your primary health care provider. Your health care practitioner can counsel you on the safest and most efficacious treatment methods, and she can create a personalized treatment plan that takes into account your past health history, current health problem and preferred treatment methods. Herbal remedies may best be used as an adjunct therapy in the treatment of HPV, but herbs should only be used if you are under the care of a licensed health care professional.
References
- MedlinePlus: HPV
- MayoClinic.com: HPV Infection
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
- "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth"; Sharol Tilgner, N.D.; 1999
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