Witch Hazel


Parts used - the leaves and bark
 

Common Uses

  • Soothes minor skin injuries, insect bites, blemishes, skin irritations and inflammations
  • Soothes minor burns and sunburn
  • Helps ease mucus membrane irritations
  • Herbalists recommend using it as a gargle or mouth wash for sore throats and gums.
  • Helps ease bruising - ice cubes made from witch hazel are particularly soothing
  • Eases discomfort from varicose veins and hemorrhoids
  • Helps stop bleeding of minor wounds

How Witch Hazel Works
The leaves and bark of Witch Hazel contain a high proportion of an astringent called tannin. This makes it effective for soothing minor irritations and other problems of the skin and mucus membranes.
 

Side Effects
No major side effects or contraindications are known at this time.
No interactions with other drugs are known at this time.

 

History of Witch Hazel The Witch Hazel is a perennial shrub or small tree which grows in eastern North America. It has unusual bright yellow spidery shaped flowers which bloom in the winter.
Witch Hazel was a popular herbal remedy of Native Americans. They used it for minor wounds and skin irritation, insect bites, burns and to soothe painful muscles and joints. It was also used as a snuff to stop nose bleeds, and made into a tea to soothe sore throats, stem internal bleeding and excessive menstrual flow.
The branches of the Witch Hazel were greatly valued as divining rods to find underground water or metals.


Disclaimer: The information presented is for information purposes only. It is based on scientific studies or traditional usage. Consult a health care professional before using supplements or making any changes in prescribed medications. Information and statements regarding dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease