Witch Hazel
Hamamelidaceae is a hardy tree that grows 8 to 10 feet high with dark brown and toothed elliptical leaves. It has hairy yellow flowers with strap-like petals that appear in late autumn. Witch Hazel branches were formally used as a water dividing rod. Witch hazel is great for bruises, sprains, varicose veins, hemorrhoids, insect bites, and to stop bleeding. It is frequently used as an astringent cosmetic.
Used In: Garden Mist.
Common Uses For Witch Hazel
To Relieve Inflammation.
Witch hazel contains many compounds with potent anti-inflammatory properties, including gallic acid and tannins. It also contains antioxidants that help prevent widespread inflammation.
To Reduce Skin Irritation.
Research suggests that applying witch hazel topically to sensitive skin may be beneficial in the treatment of inflamed, irritated, or broken skin. It’s commonly used by tattoo artists to cleans the skin for this reason.
To Treat Hemorrhoids.
Witch hazel is often used as a natural remedy to provide relief from the discomfort and pain caused by hemorrhoids. It has hemostatic properties, meaning that it may stop bleeding caused by hemorrhoids
To Fight Acne.
Thanks to its powerful anti-inflammatory properties, some research suggests that witch hazel could be useful in the treatment of acne.
To Alleviate Scalp Sensitivity.
According to one study in 1,373 people, using a shampoo containing witch hazel extract was effective in reducing scalp irritation, including tenderness and itching.
To Soothe A Sore Throat.
Because of its ability to decrease inflammation and act as an astringent, witch hazel is sometimes used to treat sore throats. It reduces swelling, decreases pain, and dries excess mucus caused by a sore throat.
To Protect The Skin From Damage.
Witch hazel is rich in tannins, a natural plant compound with powerful antioxidant properties that can help protect your skin against damage when applied topically.
To Ward Off Infection.
Some studies indicate that witch hazel may be beneficial in fighting certain types of viral infections. One study, for example, found that the tannins in witch hazel exhibited antiviral effects against both influenza A and human papillomavirus (HPV).
Sources: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/witch-hazel-benefits-uses#TOC_TITLE_HDR_9; page 273 the complete book of herbs: a practical guide to growing and using herbs by Lesley bremness
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