Natural Remedies - Healing with Medicinal Herbs

Witch hazel

Witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana Hamamelidaceae)


Other Names: Common Witch-Hazel, American Witch-Hazel

Witch hazel, a North American tree, is prized for its spider-like yellow flowers and broad oval leaves. Blooming in winter at twig and leaf stalk junctions, it produces brown fruits with small quills that release seeds upon opening.


Parts for Use

Leaves and Bark

  1. Leaves are harvested in summer before turning brown.
  2. Bark is collected in autumn or spring.
  3. Dried leaves and bark are used for infusions, powders, tinctures, and extracts, and are common in mouthwashes, gels, and ointments.

Ingredients

Tannins, making up over 10% of dried leaves, drive anti-inflammatory effects. Flavonoids strengthen blood vessels and reduce inflammation, while a small amount of essential oil contributes to its soothing properties.


Use in Treatment

Witch hazel strengthens blood vessels, reduces capillary permeability, and constricts blood vessels, making it effective for circulation issues, varicose veins, and hemorrhoids. Its anti-inflammatory properties help treat eczema and skin redness caused by dilated blood vessels. Studies confirm its antimicrobial effects against Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans, supporting its use in mouthwashes and eye drops for oral cavity diseases and inflammation.


Cultivation

Plant young trees in moist, neutral to acidic, nutrient-rich soil in a sunny or partially shaded location.


Preparation and Dosage

For Internal Use (Circulation, Hemorrhoids, Oral Health)

  1. Infusion: Steep 10 g dried leaves in 1 liter of boiling water for 5–10 minutes, strain, drink 1–2 cups daily.
  2. Capsules: Take 2 g 3 times daily.
  3. Liquid Extract (1:1 in 45% alcohol): Take up to 2 ml 3 times daily.
  4. Oral Rinse: Steep 2 g dried leaves in a cup of boiling water for 10 minutes, strain, rinse, swallow, or gargle up to twice daily.

For External Use (Circulation, Hemorrhoids, Inflammation, Eczema)

  1. Gels/Ointments: Massage into affected areas once daily.
  2. Witch Hazel Water: Apply 1–2 times daily.
  3. Tincture: Mix 200 g crushed dried bark in 1 liter of 40% alcohol, store in a dark glass bottle, dilute 20 ml tincture with 100 ml water, apply to varicose veins.

Warnings

  1. Consult a healthcare professional before use.
  2. Avoid during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
  3. May cause contact allergies in some individuals.