Although many skin disorders like warts, pimples or skin tags clear on their own with no specific intervention, others require medical treatments. No medicinal herbs have been definitively proven to be safe or effective treatments for skin disorders, but several plant-based products may be beneficial. Consult your primary health care provider before using herbal remedies for skin tags, warts and pimples.
Bloodroot
Named for its bright-red coloration, bloodroot demonstrates some promise as a treatment option for skin tags. In recent years, bloodroot has gained notoriety for its ability to cause severe damage to skin and soft tissue when it is used as a treatment for skin cancer. Dr. Andrew Weil, a renowned naturopath, specifically advises against the use of bloodroot as a skin cancer treatment, but does recommend its conscientious use for benign skin tags. Dr. Weil states that when applied to skin tags, bloodroot causes "inflammation at the base of the growth, which usually turns pale, then falls off, leaving a very minimal scar and no damage to normal tissue."
White Willow
The bark of the white willow tree is a versatile natural medicine. It may help to treat both warts and pimples. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, white willow bark is a natural source of salicylic acid, an aspirin-like compound with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. MayoClinic.com recommends salicylic acid as a topical treatment for both warts and acne. Topical skin treatments containing white willow include herbal face washes, creams and ointments.
Tea Tree Oil
The essential oil of the tea tree plant appears to be a useful and effective treatment option for acne and other minor skin problems. The National Institutes of Health reports that gels containing a 5 percent solution of tea tree oil relieves acne symptoms as effectively as 5 percent solutions of benzoyl peroxide. Tea tree oil may have fewer side effects than benzoyl peroxide, but it seems to work more slowly.
Warning
Although most topical medicinal herbs are safe when used as directed, they can also cause uncomfortable side effects. Tea tree oil and topical white willow may both lead to burning sensations and skin peeling. Bloodroot, although recommended by some naturopaths, can be very caustic and may cause permanent damage to skin when it is over-applied or mis-applied. Always consult your primary health care provider before using any medicinal herb, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing or have a medical condition.
