Witch hazel is native to North America, but can now be found growing in most parts of Europe and Britain. In herbal medicine the leaves and the tree bark are used.
Medicinal Properties of Witch hazel
Witch hazel contains very high levels of tannins and volatile oils, which are astringent, anti-inflammatory and mildly antiseptic. It also contains saponins and flavonoids. Witch hazel is toning to the skin and blood vessels when applied topically. It is also able to slow down bleeding from cuts, wounds and piles.
Witch hazel Herbal Remedies
Our herbalists recommend witch hazel for the following disorders:
Acne
Cold sores
Nose bleeds
Haemorrhoids
Varicose veins
Other Witch hazel Information
Witch hazel has a long history of use for reducing inflammation in Eczema and for washing and the healing of wounds. It is also used as a general skin toner. Witch hazel was used to treat internal problems, but this practice is no longer in favour. It is available for topical use only, as liquid, normally ‘distilled Witch hazel’ or in creams and ointments.
Side Effects of Witch hazel
Topical witch hazel is free of side effects and has no real contra-indications.
Only use Witch hazel internally with supervision from a naturopath. It must be noted that it is a herb with a high tannin content and may block the absorption of some drugs when taken internally. Ones to note are atropine, theophylline or medications that contain ephedrine or codeine. Always check with your doctor or pharmacist, but a general indication is that drinking high levels of tea is also not recommended with the medicine in question.
When this article was written there were no other well-known negative drug interactions with the herb witch hazel.
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