A verruca, also known as a plantar wart, is a wart that can be found on the sole of a person’s foot. Verrucas are relatively common, but can still be an embarrassing affliction due to their stigma. It is similar to a regular wart, but because it is on the bottom of the foot, it may cause pain when standing or walking.
Here is a little more information about plantar warts, along with some ways you can get rid of them once and for all.
What Causes Verrucas?
Verrucas, or plantar warts, is a viral infection that manifests as a benign epithelial tumor. They are caused by the human papillomavirus, and can be found both alone and in clusters. Verrucas are extremely contagious; therefore you must be cautious to avoid them and to treat them immediately upon discovery. They can be passed by direct contact, and also through contact with surfaces that have been contaminated.
Essential Oils
There are a few essential oils that can help you get rid of verrucas. Try using either lemon or tea tree oil as they have been tested for this purpose. One of the best ways to use either oil is to simply apply a drop of the oil directly to the verruca, three times each day. If you wish, you can put a bandage directly over where you put the drop of essential oil in order to hold it in place.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar works in two different ways to destroy verrucas. First, it irritates the area where the verruca is, and causes the immune system to prioritize healing in that particular area. Second, it causes the area to fight the verruca and make it an environment that the verruca cannot thrive or survive in.
Zinc
Taken internally, zinc will build your immune system and help you to fight verrucas from the inside out. Zinc will build your immune system in general, which will also help you avoid getting another infection in the future. If you wish, you can also use the liquid form of zinc and apply it directly to the verruca.
How to Avoid Them
Although they can often be treated at home, it is best to avoid getting a verruca in the first place. In order to avoid them, you must be vigilant about hygiene. When you are in a public shower or locker room, wear a pair of flip flops to avoid coming in contact with contamination on the floor and other surfaces.
Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water when you have been out in public. If you have a verruca, don’t pick at it and then touch other body parts or objects.
Verrucas are something no one wants to get. If you have one, you may panic and wonder how long it will take to get rid of. By following these tips, you can say goodbye to your verrucas once and for all.