By Christine Cheng, R.Ph.
Q: I seem to have a predisposition for warts; I’ve had them on and off since I was a child. Other than using the usual over-the-counter products or having my doctor “burn” them off, is there anything else I can try?
A: Warts are caused by a human papillomavirus (HPV) that causes your body to produce more keratin (a protein in the outer layer of skin), which results in the rough, hard texture that is characteristic of warts. OTC products that contain salicylic acid can be effective to help remove the extra layers. Similarly, your doctor can use cryotherapy to “freeze” off the warts. This latter effect can also be achieved with certain OTC products. Homeopathic products have produced very satisfactory results for many of our clients. A combination of the topical “Wart/Mole/Naevus Cream” along with the oral “Wart Mix” can help the body fend off persistent or recurring warts.
