If you’ve ever dealt with the annoyance of plantar warts or skin tags, you’re not alone.
These common skin conditions can affect people of all ages and often show up when you least expect them. While they’re usually harmless, they can be uncomfortable, unsightly, and even painful—especially when they appear on delicate or visible areas.
The good news? You don’t have to spend money on expensive treatments or endure uncomfortable procedures. With just a few items from your kitchen, you can create a natural, effective remedy that helps dry out and remove warts or skin tags—sometimes in as little as one night.
This particular remedy uses a powerful trio: apple cider vinegar, baking soda, and tea tree oil. Together, they work beneath the surface to break down skin growths and promote healing.
Why These Ingredients Work
- Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV): Known for its detoxifying and antibacterial qualities, ACV contains acetic acid, which penetrates the growth and helps dissolve abnormal tissue. It also creates an acidic environment that helps prevent further bacterial or viral growth.
- Baking Soda: Acts as a gentle exfoliant that removes dead skin and balances pH levels, creating a less hospitable environment for fungi and bacteria. It also gives the mixture a paste-like texture that stays in place on the skin.
- Tea Tree Oil: A potent essential oil with strong antiviral and antimicrobial properties. It targets viruses like HPV—the common culprit behind warts—while calming inflammation and irritation.
How to Make and Apply the Treatment
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon baking soda
- 3–4 drops tea tree oil
- Cotton ball or pad
- Bandage or medical tape
Instructions:
- Mix the Paste: Combine ACV and baking soda in a small bowl to form a thick paste, then stir in tea tree oil.
- Apply to Affected Area: Soak a cotton pad in the paste and place it directly on the wart or skin tag.
- Secure It: Hold the cotton in place with tape or a bandage to keep the mixture working overnight.
- Leave Overnight: Let it sit for several hours or while you sleep.
- Repeat Nightly: Continue nightly applications until the growth dries up and falls off on its own.
What to Expect
With consistent use, most people notice:
- Reduction in Size: The growth will begin to shrink and dry out after a few treatments.
- Healthier Skin: Once the growth falls off, the skin will heal, sometimes leaving a light spot that fades over time.
- Minimal Irritation: This remedy is typically gentle and doesn’t cause the burning sensation associated with chemical treatments.
- No Scarring: Since it’s all-natural, the risk of scarring or harsh side effects is very low.
Additional Tips for Best Results
- Stay Hydrated: Water helps your skin flush out toxins and promotes healing.
- Avoid Picking: Let the wart or tag fall off naturally to prevent irritation or scarring.
- Support Your Immune System: Eat foods rich in vitamin C, zinc, and antioxidants to help your body fight the viruses that cause skin growths.
- Apply Coconut Oil After: Once the area is clear, use coconut oil to soothe and protect the healing skin.
While this method is safe and effective for many, keep an eye on any unusual changes. If a growth changes color, becomes painful, or grows rapidly, it’s best to seek advice from a healthcare provider.