Looking for natural ways to manage genital warts?

Genital warts, medically known as condyloma acuminata, are a common sexually transmitted infection caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) that can be uncomfortable and distressing. These warts can vary in size and shape, sometimes as flat lesions, small bumps, or cauliflower-like clusters. According to a report from the UK Health Security Agency, in 2023, there were 26,133 reported cases of first-episode genital wart diagnosis.

Many people turn to home remedies for genital warts to ease symptoms and support healing.

Although genital warts are treatable, HPV remains in the body, meaning warts can reappear even after removal.

Some popular remedies include using bavuchi oil for its antiviral properties, curcuma as a natural exfoliant, and boosting immunity with vitamin-rich foods. Though these simple approaches can’t cure the underlying virus, they may help manage discomfort, reduce irritation, and promote overall skin health. In this article, let’s look at each remedy and common misconceptions and mistakes to avoid when treating genital warts at home. In addition to that, we’ll be covering when you should seek professional medical help, how genital warts are diagnosed, and treatment options.

Necessary: Always consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment. Home remedies should complement – not replace – medical care for genital warts.

Best Home Remedies for Genital Warts

1. Curcumin

Known for its antiviral and antimicrobial properties, curcumin may help shrink warts and reduce irritation. Nalpamaradi oil contains Curcumin and is suitable for local application without any allergy. It’s better to test the oil before application.

2. Kanchnar

Kanchnar contains powerful antioxidants that may combat HPV. Polyherbal combinations with Kanchnar as the main ingredient are available in an Ayurvedic store. Please consult an Ayurvedic Physician to select the right combination for you.

3. Madhusnuhi

Madhusnuhi works similarly to acidic medical treatments, potentially killing off wart tissue. Polyherbal combinations with Madhusnuhi as the main ingredient are available in an Ayurvedic store. Please consult an Ayurvedic Physician to select the right combination for you.

4. Triphala

Triphala can be used internally and externally. Triphala powder boiled in water can be used to wash the affected areas, and oil cooked with Triphala can be used for external application. Internal use of Triphala with honey rejuvenates the immune system.

Other Natural Remedies for Genital Warts

Green Tea Extract also contains antioxidants that combat HPV. Mix green tea extract with coconut oil and apply it directly to the warts.
Apply Cider Vinegar also works similarly to acidic medical treatments which can kill off wart tissue. Soak a cotton ball or Q-tip in apple cider vinegar and apply it to the wart. Discontinue use if irritation occurs.
Eating Cruciferous Vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, kale, and Brussel sprouts can boost immunity and help your body clear warts faster. These vegetables contain indole-3-carbinol (I3C), which supports HPV clearance.
Garlic has natural antiviral properties. A placebo-controlled trial by Lipke (2006) reported that applying chloroform extracts of garlic led to complete resolution of cutaneous warts, with no recurrence observed after 3-4 months. Similarly, a 2018 study found that applying 10% garlic extract twice daily for eight weeks was as effective as cryotherapy in reducing genital warts (Mousavi, et. al, 2018). However, the study was limited to a small group of male participants. Alternatively, crush fresh garlic, mix it with oil, and apply it to the affected area.
Witch Hazel is a gentle astringent and is believed to help reduce wart size. In addition to its astringent properties, research suggests that tannin-rich extracts from Witch Hazel bark exhibit antiviral activity (Theisen LL, et. al, 2014). Apply a small amount to the warts daily, but avoid using it internally (e.g. inside the vagina or anus).
Folate and B12 Supplements may help your body fight off the virus. A study conducted by Chandrika J. Piyathilake, et. al (2014) shows a link between folate and vitamin B12 deficiency to higher risk of HPV infection.
Proper Hydration by drinking plenty of warm water supports immune function. While hydration doesn’t directly treat genital warts, it helps your body recover faster and promotes skin health.

Common Mistakes in Treating Genital Warts at Home

Undiluted remedies like tea tree oil or apple cider vinegar can cause severe skin irritation or burns. Always dilute potent substances and start with small amounts.
Applying remedies without performing a patch test can lead to allergic reactions, worsening irritation, or even infection.
Treating internal warts with topicals. Remedies like garlic or witch hazel are not suitable for internal application.
Inconsistency by skipping applications or not following the recommended duration can reduce their effectiveness.
Using multiple remedies at once can lead to skin damage.
Expecting a quick fix

Do’s and Don’ts

Do’s

Dilute strong substances; mix essential oils or acidic substances with carrier oils or water
Be consistent
Practice good hygiene
Boost your immunity; follow a healthy diet, hydration, and proper rest
Consult a doctor if symptoms worsen

Don’ts

Don’t pick or scratch warts
Avoid internal applications
Don’t overdo treatments
Don’t ignore symptoms

When to See a Doctor

The warts are painful or bleeding
You’re unsure if it’s genital warts
The warts spread or worsen
You’re pregnant
You experience painful urination (dysuria)
Home remedies aren’t effective

How are Genital Warts Diagnosed?

Physical examination to identify visible growths.
Pap test for women to check for warts on the cervix.
An HPV test to identify the specific strain of the virus present and assess the risk of related complications, such as cervical cancer.
Acetic Acid test
DNA Analysis

Remember not to delay. Early medical advice can help prevent complications, ensure an accurate diagnosis, and provide tailored treatment options.

How Are Genital Warts Treated?

Traditional Treatments

Medications

Topical Creams and Ointments
- Imiquimod – helps stimulate the immune system to fight off HPV. It’s applied directly to the warts and can be used over several weeks.
- Podophyllin and Podofilox – Podophyllin can only be applied by a healthcare provider, while Podofilox can be self-applied at home. Both require caution, as they can irritate surrounding skin.
- Sinecatechins – an FDA-approved treatment derived from green tea extract. It’s applied as an ointment and is particularly useful for mild to moderate cases.
Antiviral Drugs target the virus directly. They help slow down the appearance of warts, although they’re not always the first line of treatment. They’re typically combined with other therapies for severe or recurring cases.

All medications require a prescription from a doctor to ensure safe and effective use.

Surgical Removal

Usually considered when other treatments fail or for cases involving extensive wart growth.

Cryotherapy – freezing the warts with liquid nitrogen, known as freezing therapy or cryosurgery.
Electrocautery – uses an electrical current to burn off the warts.
Laser Treatment employs lasers to destroy wart tissue. It is recommended for extensive wart growths or warts that are difficult to access.
Excision – involves cutting out the warts using a scalpel or surgical scissors.

Ayurvedic Treatment for Genital Warts

Ayurveda views genital warts as Yoni Arsas, related to an imbalance in the Pitta dosha. Ayurvedic remedies balance the body’s doshas and boost the immune system to fight underlying HPV infection. Common herbal remedies that reduce the appearance of warts are neem, turmeric, and garlic.

Ayurvedic treatments can help manage the symptoms of genital warts and complement conventional medical treatment. Always consult an Ayurvedic practitioner or health care professional for accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Nidana (Ayurvedic Causes)

Agantu (External Factors) – infection or invasion; human papillomavirus

Poor Immunity – a weakened immune system (Ojas), caused by stress, poor diet, and lack of sleep. Here are Ayurvedic supplements that support immune health:

Sexual Imbalance – caused by unprotected sexual activity

Unhealthy Diet and Lifestyle – excessive indulgence in stimulants like alcohol or lack of physical activity. Due to improper eating habits, imbalance in Vata or Pitta doshas can lead to skin conditions, including warts.

Purvaroopam (Ayurvedic Premonitory Symptoms)

Small bumps or growth in the vulva (yoni) or genital area
Itching or irritation
Inflammation or redness
Sensitivity in the affected area

Chikitsa (Ayurvedic Treatment)

Samana

Treatment for vitiated Rakta (blood) and Mamsa Dhatu (muscle tissue)
Yoni Prakshalana – washing the genital area with Aragvadhadi Kashayam

Parasurgical Treatment

Sastrakarma (Surgical Treatment)

Kshara Karma – Kshara Sutra – involves the use of a medical alkaline paste (Kshara) applied to the warts.

Agni Karma – application of heat or cautery to the warts.

Lekshana Karma – scraping or abrasion technique to remove unwanted growth like warts.

Ayurvedic Medicine for Genital Warts

These medicines help treat genital warts, but always remember to consult with an Ayurvedic practitioner before intake. Consider booking a free online consultation with us.

Managing and Preventing Gential Warts

How Can I Prevent Genital Warts?

Proper Hygiene – regularly washing the genital area with mild, herbal cleansers. Hygiene is paramount after sexual activity.
Use a Condom During Sexual Intercourse – although not 100% guaranteed protection, they significantly reduce the chances of coming into contact with the virus.
Boost Immunity – balanced diet, regular exercise, and managing stress.

Easy Ways to Remove Genital Warts

Use of Herbal Pastes or Oils: Apply diluted tea tree oil, garlic extract, or a mixture of green tea and coconut oil to reduce the size and appearance.

Yoni Prakshalana (Genital Cleansing)

Diet

To Be Avoided:

Sour and acrid foods (pickles, citrus fruits, and sour-spicy dishes)
Heavy, hard-to-digest foods (processed and deep-fried foods)
Red meat and caffeine

To Be Added:

Antioxidant-rich fruits such as blueberries, cherries, tomatoes, and squash
Vegetables such as leafy greens and cruciferous vegetables
Whole grains and legumes (quinoa, oats, and lentils)
Herbal teas like ginger, turmeric, and tulsi (holy basil)

Lifestyle Changes

Engage in regular exercise
Get adequate sleep (at least 7-8 hours of restful sleep)
Stress management (meditation, deep breathing, and mindfulness)

Pranayama

Nadi Shuddhi Pranayama (Alternate Nostril Breathing)

Sit in a comfortable meditative posture with your head and spine erect.
Close the right nostril using your thumb and inhale deeply through the left nostril.
Repeat the process for 5-10 minutes, maintaining a steady, rhythmic breath.

Similar Article: Plantar Warts – Ayurvedic Treatment

FAQs

How long do genital warts last?

The duration varies. With proper treatment, warts may disappear within a few months, though the virus can remain in the body. Without treatment, warts can persist and may even grow larger or spread.

Can genital warts disappear on their own?

Yes, genital warts can sometimes disappear on their own. In many cases, the immune system can fight off the HPV, leading to gradual resolution without treatment. However, this process can take months or years; the virus may remain dormant in the body.

Are genital warts an STI?

Yes, genital warts are a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV).

Can I get genital warts more than once?

Yes, it’s possible to get genital warts more than once, incredibly if the immune system does not fully clear the virus or if exposed to a different strain of HPV.

What’s the difference between genital warts and herpes?

Genital warts are caused by HPV and appear as growths or lumps on the genital area, while herpes is caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV) and leads to painful blisters or sores. Both are STIs but are caused by different viruses.

How do I stop genital warts from spreading?

To prevent the spread of genital warts, use condoms during sexual activity, avoid direct contact with warts, and maintain good hygiene. Consider treatment options to remove warts and reduce viral transmission.

Who is at risk of genital warts?

Anyone sexually active is at risk, especially with unprotected sex, multiple sexual partners, a weak immune system, or sexual activity at a young age.

Are genital warts contagious?

Yes, genital warts are highly contagious. They spread through direct skin-to-skin contact during vaginal, anal, or oral sex with an infected partner. Even if warts are not visible, HPV can still be transmitted.

Disclaimers

The information provided in this article is for education purposes only and should not be considered as a substitute for advice from a health care professional, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or the use of Ayurvedic remedies.

It is important to note that the UK Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), Food and Drug Administration (FDA), European Medicines Agency (EMA), and the World Health Organization (WHO) do not regulate alternative medicines. Anyone interested in these remedies should discuss them with a doctor first and always purchase them from a reliable source.

While the following home remedies may help alleviate symptoms or speed the healing of genital warts, they are not intended to cure the underlying virus. Always talk to your health care provider before trying any new treatment, and be sure to research the quality and purify of any product before use. Always conduct a patch test before trying new essential oils or topical treatments.

Supporting Research

Surendran, *Emy S., T P, S., & G N, S. (2019). MANAGEMENT OF GENITAL WARTS THROUGH AYURVEDA-A CASE REPORT . International Journal of Ayurveda and Pharma Research, 7(3), 39-41. Retrieved from https://ijapr.in/index.php/ijapr/article/view/1162
Beutner KR, et. al (1999) Genital Warts and Their Treatment. Clinical Infectious Diseases 28: S37-S56. Retrieved from https://academic.oup.com/cid/article-abstract/28/Supplement_1/S37/412232
Sekhar Namburi, U. R.,; Omprakash,; Babu, G. (2011) A review on management of warts in Ayurveda. An International Quarterly Journal of Research in Ayurveda 32(1): 100-102. Retrieved from https://journals.lww.com/AAYU/fulltext/2011/32010/A_review_on_management_of_warts_in_Ayurveda.19.aspx
Theisen LL, Erdelmeier CAJ, Spoden GA, Boukhallouk F, Sausy A, Florin L, et al. (2014) Tannins from Hamamelis virginiana Bark Extract: Characterization and Improvement of the Antiviral Efficacy against Influenza A Virus and Human Papillomavirus. PLoS ONE 9(1): e88062. Retrieved from https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0088062
Lipke, Michelle M. (2006) An Armamentarium of Wart Treatments. Clinical Medicine & Research 4(4): 273-293. Retrieved from https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC1764803/
Mousav ZB, Mehrabian A, Golfakhrabadi F, & Namyojan F (2018) A clinical study of efficacy of garlic extracts versus cryotherapy in the treatment of male genial wart. Dermatologica Sinica 36(4): 196-199. Retrieved from https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1027811718300612
Piyathilake CJ, et. al (2014) Folate and vitamin B12 may play a critical role in lowering the HPV 16 methylation-associated risk of developing higher grades of CIN. Cancer Prev Res (Phila) 7(11):11268-37. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25145486/
Stephanie J Migchelsen, Jessica Edney, Norah O’Brien, Celine El Hakim, Prarthana Narayanan, Ana Karina Harb, Lana Drisdale-Gordon, Stephen Duffell, Marta Checchi, Lucinda Slater, Hannah Charles, George Baldry, Hridhya, Vijayan, Giulia Habib Meriggi, Tika Ram, Kate Soldan, Kate Folkard, Katy Sinka, Hamish Mohammed and contributors. Sexually transmitted infections and screening for chlamydia in England, 2023. June 2024, UK Health Security Agency, London. Retrieved from https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/sexually-transmitted-infections-stis-annual-data-tables/sexually-transmitted-infections-and-screening-for-chlamydia-in-england-2023-report

Dr. Rajesh Nair. Expert, Ayurveda Medicine, India

This article has been reviewed by Dr. Rajesh Nair, the co-founder and chief consultant of AyurvedaForAll and AyurvedaForAll UK. Dr. Nair graduated from the esteemed Vaidyaratnam Ayurveda College (affiliated with the University of Calicut) in Kerala, India, and holds a Postgraduate Diploma in Yoga Therapy from Annamalai University.

With over 20 years of experience in Ayurveda, Dr. Nair specialises in Panchakarma, Yoga, and Ayurvedic Massage. He consults at two busy clinics in the Southern state of Kerala, renowned for its traditional Ayurvedic practices, and offers online consultations to patients worldwide. Dr. Nair is the chief editor of the Ayurveda Medical Association of India’s online portal and frequently speaks at Ayurveda-related conferences. He has also visited Germany to propagate Ayurveda.

Dr. Nair’s expertise ensures that all content on this website is medically sound and adheres to the highest Ayurvedic standards.

Visit AyurvedaForAll UK for more information.