Hamamelis: properties, what it is and what it is for

Characteristics of witch hazel

He witch hazelwitch hazel virginiana) is a common tree in eastern North America, from Quebec to Florida, often planted as an ornamental. Its generic name is from Greek root and alludes to the similarity of its leaves with those of the apple tree, although it seems much more to a hazelnut

Also it is known as “witch hazel”for him healing power attributed to it by the native peoples of the area, who have used it as a remedy since ancient times.

It’s a deciduous tree of modest bearing, gray bark, oval leaves and golden petals in the form of threads, gathered in dense inflorescences.

The bark and especially the leaves are harvested, odorless, tasteless and rich in gallic tannins, phenolic acids, flavonoids, anthocyanosides and bitter principles. The bark also contains resins, essential oil and saponosides.

Properties of witch hazel

The tannins explain its high can astringent, hemostatic and antihemorrhagic.​

Perhaps the most widespread use of witch hazel, both internally and externallybe treat venous insufficiency problems such as hemorrhoids (including bleeding), varicose veins, phlebitis, numbness in the feet and hands, tingling or heavy legs. It is also attributed a venotonic and vasodilator effectthat is, it increases the elasticity of the veins and the resistance of the capillaries, which is why it is very useful in bleeding wounds, nosebleeds, etc. The infusion and the witch hazel are indicated as anti-inflammatory and astringent mouthwashes in oral inflammations or gingivitis with bleeding.They also result eye drops effective in case of conjunctivitis, eye irritation and blepharitis.They apply equally to wounds, scrapes, cuts, nosebleeds, eczema, dermatitis and pimples, as well as to relieve bumps and bruises. Internally, it is associated with plants that reinforce its action for diarrhea.

How is witch hazel used?

In the herbalist we can find witch hazel in the form of dry leaf for infusion, tincture, liquid extract hydrogenated witch hazel powdered, tablets and the Cortex for decoction.

Finally, it is sold witch hazelto wash and heal wounds, or to use as a mouthwash or eye drops.

You will also see it in lotions, as in post-shave lotions; and it is usual that it forms part, with devil’s claw and mint oilof creams venous tonic effect.

Natural remedies with witch hazel

Infusion with witch hazel to relieve hemorrhoids

For promote venous return in case of hemorrhoids and also for lighten the constriction of varicose veins of the legs, a formula is used that integrates witch hazel, red vine, cypress galbules and horse chestnut seedseach plant in similar proportion.

How is it prepared: Four tablespoons of the mixture are boiled per 2 liters of water, and once the water has reached an acceptable temperature, it remains in the sitz bath until it cools.

in external usethis infusion also applies with some compresses over the affected area, or performing a gentle massage on the legs. This remedy simultaneously relieves the feeling of heaviness and tiredness in the extremities.

Witch hazel tea to improve blood circulation

Drinking this witch hazel herbal tea and other plants that promote circulation can relieve varicose veins and hemorrhoids and improve these problems in the long run. Combine the witch hazel in equal parts with sweet clover, ginkgo leaves and red vine.

How to prepare it: Boil two tablespoons of the mixture per half liter of water for 1 minute, let it stand for 10 and strain. It is recommended add orange or fennel juice to soften the bitterness of the infusion, which is drunk throughout the day.

Precautions for use

Internally, ingestion should be avoided if there is gastritis or gastroduodenal ulcer.

Jordi Cebrian. Advisor: J Mª Teixé, herbalist at “El Manantial de Salud”