Cloves and clove oil are often discussed in traditional wellness for their antimicrobial properties, but when it comes to skin tags and warts, it is important to understand how they work and how to use them safely. While some people report success using these methods, they typically do not work in “one night.” Consistent application over several days or weeks is usually required for the growth to dry out and fall off.
The Role of Cloves in Skin Care
Cloves contain a powerful compound called eugenol, which has natural antiseptic, antiviral, and anesthetic (numbing) properties.
For Warts: Since warts are caused by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), the antiviral nature of cloves may help inhibit the virus.
For Skin Tags: The concentrated oil is thought to “shrivel” the extra skin tissue by drying it out over time.
Clove Oil Removal Recipe
Because clove oil is extremely potent, it should be handled with care to avoid irritating the surrounding healthy skin.
Ingredients
1–2 drops of 100% pure Clove Essential Oil (Syzygium aromaticum).
1 teaspoon of a carrier oil (such as Coconut, Olive, or Jojoba oil) to prevent chemical burns.
1 small bandage or medical tape.
Optional: A tiny bit of petroleum jelly to protect the healthy skin around the tag/wart.
Instructions
Clean the Area: Wash the skin tag or wart with mild soap and pat it completely dry.
Protect Healthy Skin: Apply a thin ring of petroleum jelly around the base of the growth (but not on the growth itself) to act as a barrier.
Mix and Apply: Mix the clove oil with your carrier oil. Using a cotton swab, dab the mixture directly onto the skin tag or wart.
Cover: Secure a bandage over the area to keep the oil in contact with the growth.
Overnight Care: Leave the application on overnight. In the morning, remove the bandage and rinse the area.
Repeat: For best results, repeat this process once daily until the growth darkens, dries up, and eventually detaches.
Important Safety Considerations
While this is a natural approach, concentrated essential oils are strong. Please keep the following in mind:
Avoid Sensitive Areas: Never use clove oil near the eyes, mouth, or genital areas.
Patch Test: Before the first application, test the diluted oil on a small patch of skin (like your inner wrist) to ensure you don’t have an allergic reaction.
Not an Overnight Cure: Despite many claims, skin tags and warts are resilient. It usually takes 1–2 weeks of consistent treatment to see the growth fall off.
Consult a Professional: If a skin growth changes color rapidly, bleeds, or has an irregular border, it is best to see a dermatologist to ensure it is a benign tag and not something more serious.