HPV, or human papillomavirus, is the pathogen that causes skin warts, genital warts and genital cancers in men and women. There are more than 40 strains of HPV, and in about 90 percent of cases, the body's immune system will successfully fight the infection, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Herbs and vitamins may help you resist an HPV attack naturally. Consult your health-care practitioner for a diagnosis before starting herbal treatment.
Herbal and Vitamin Actions
Herbs and vitamins for HPV work in different ways. Some have antiviral action and can kill or weaken the virus. Immune-stimulant herbs strengthen your body's own defenses to resist pathogens. Some vitamins help skin cells and tissues resist and repair damage from HPV. Check with a knowledgeable practitioner for advice about dosage and preparation of herbal and vitamin remedies for HPV.
Mayapple
Mayapple, or Podophyllum peltatum, is a perennial with huge leaves and a green toxic fruit. Herbalists use the rhizome topically to treat warts. The roots and rhizomes contain a chemical called podophyllotoxin or podofilox, which kills HPV. In his 2003 book, "Medical Herbalism: The Science and Practice of Herbal Medicine," clinical herbalist David Hoffmann explains that podofilox is an ingredient in commercial topical creams for genital warts. This herb may be toxic if ingested. Do not use during pregnancy.
Vitamins
Vitamins may help fight HPV. In their 2000 book, "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," Dr. James F. Balch and certified nutritionist Phyllis A. Balch suggest vitamin B complex and vitamin C as remedies for HPV. The B vitamins are necessary for proper cell growth and healthy skin. They may have some benefit in treating HPV because the virus infects the epithelial, or surface layers of your skin and mucous membranes. Vitamin C is useful for its antiviral properties. Follow recommended dosages.
Aloe
Aloe, or Aloe vera, is a succulent native to North Africa. The leaves contain a gel rich in complex polysaccharides, amino acids and salicylic acid. Herbalists use this medicinal gel to treat wounds, burns and skin infections. In "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," the Balches recommend aloe for HPV because it has antiviral properties. Aloe is also anti-inflammatory and immune-stimulating. In their 2001 book, "Herbal Remedies," naturopathic doctors Asa Hershoff and Andrea Rotelli recommend applying fresh aloe gel directly to your wart to dissolve it. If you feel a burning sensation when applying aloe, dilute it with some vegetable oil.
References
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Genital HPV Infection
- "Medical Herbalism: The Science and Practice of Herbal Medicine"; David Hoffmann; 2003
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC, and James F. Balch, M.D.; 2000
- "Herbal Remedies"; Asa Hershoff, N.D., and Andrea Rotelli, N.D.; 2001
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