Warts and corns on the feet: what are the effects of Ashitaba extract?

Corns are characterised by hard bumps located on the soles of the feet or a soft skin outgrowth between the toes (also known as a soft corn). They appear in areas exposed to repeated friction or excessive pressure. These aggressions prompt skin cells (keratinocytes) to produce more keratin in order to protect the skin, which results in its thickening.

Firstly, dead skin cells accumulate in the form of a cone. This then penetrates into the deep skin tissues, exerting pressure on the nerve endings. This sometimes causes a sensation of discomfort, or even pain.

Certain factors also promote the occurrence of corns, namely:

• Extended wear of pointed shoes or those equipped with high heels;

• Frequently walking barefoot;

• Not wearing socks;

• Maintaining a standing position for an extended period;

• Engaging in intense or repeated exercises.

Finally, ageing is a risk factor. As the epidermis becomes thin with age, corns form under the feet.

TheAshitaba has been cultivated in Japan for millennia as a medicinal plant. This plant is also known as the "tomorrow leaf", as the harvested foliage is quickly replaced by new buds. The sap extracted from its stems is rich in chalcones.

Studies have suggested that this active ingredient couldinhibit microbial proliferation. Indeed, an extract from Ashitaba root has been found to inhibit the growth of Staphylococcus aureus, a Gram-positive bacterium responsible for skin infections. An analysis identified that two chalcones possessed such properties: xanthoangelol and 4-hydroxyderricin. Thus, Ashitaba extract could help combat infections such as foot warts.

Furthermore, certain chalcones found in the sap extracted from the stems of the Ashitaba plant confer anti-inflammatory properties. Anti-inflammatory. Studies have tested the inhibitory activity of several compounds against protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B), a protein that can be involved in an inflammatory process and is activated by inflammatory factors, such as TNF-α. Among these compounds, six chalcones, xanthoangelol K, xanthoangelol, xanthoangelol F, 4-hydroxyderricin, xanthoangelol D, xanthoangelol E, methoxsalen and a coumarin, have shown a strong inhibitory effect on PTP1B. Thus, the extract of Ashitaba could help to soothe any inflammation caused by lesions, such as warts or corns, and calm the skin.

However, the scientific literature remains silent on the effect of Ashitaba extract on warts or corns. Therefore, we advise you to use this plant extract in addition to a specialised treatment for warts and corns.