Question:
Dr. Ben,

I have flat warts on my leg, hundreds of them, but most people would never know because you can barely see them unless I'm out in the sun then you might just notice a few spots on my leg. A few have spread to my belly and a couple to my arm.

What is so mysterious, is my sister has them too. She lives in Louisiana and at the time five years ago, she came to see me in Missouri, we were sitting outside and she said I have these little warts all over the top of my leg. I said that is weird because so do I. Now we live hundreds of miles apart and see each other maybe once a year, so how could this happen to both of us. I am 45 and she is 43 as of date.

I have been told I could never get rid of them and then I have been told they will go away on their own. Well I have tried everything. I eat lots of garlic for my immune system and now am using an infrared sauna hoping maybe that will help. My sister has had some of hers frozen off by a doctor but it left scars.

Dr. Ben I'm desperate for a cure. I'm scared eventually they will spread all over my body.

Is there anything I can do????

I would great appreciate your response.

Live happy & healthy!

ANSWER:
Hi there.

Flat warts are caused by the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) strains 3 and 10.

Naturopathic physicians treat HPV by improving the immune system, as you're doing, and also by altering the diet. Reducing stress is an important factor as well.

Limiting unhealthy forms of carbohydrates such as sugars, white breads, white rice and white potatoes is necessary as these depress immune function.

Balancing digestive flora is paramount as bacteria play a large role in immune support. Taking a quality probiotic supplement may provide significant results. Doctors commonly recommend taking acidophilus right before dinner. The probiotic supplement that I trust is typically taken for 14 nights only.

Simply open one full sachet of acidophilus, mix it into a bit of water, drink and then eat your dinner.

Spa-grade Peat, also known as moor mud, may assist in removing the warts as peat is naturally high in humic acid. Humic acid is a potent anti-viral compound. Peat baths also improve immune function if done repeatedly over a few weeks.

The peat may be applied directly to the skin which may show the highest effects or one may take a peat bath. This will require daily application for a minimum of two weeks to see any results I would imagine.

You may want to have your vitamin D levels evaluated. Low vitamin D is very common and may be compounding the problem. Talk with your doctor about ordering a serum 25 (OH) Vitamin D test.

To have full support, visit a naturopathic physician in your area. They are sure to help you.

Keep me posted on how you're doing and if you've further questions.

Disclaimer: this is only information and not medical advice or treatment.

In health,
Dr Ben, ND