Witch Hazel - Natural Astringent with Anti-inflammatory Properties

Witch hazel is a natural astringent derived from the bark and leaves of the witch hazel shrub known for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and astringent properties in skincare.
Category
Herb
Where to get
Available as a liquid extract in pharmacies and stores.
Applicable for
Prepared by Shruti Sahoo, reviewed by Dr. Eugene Smith

Witch Hazel FAQ


Image credit: gardeningknowhow.com

What is a witch hazel tree?

witch hazel, (genus Hamamelis ), any of five species of the genus Hamamelis (family Hamamelidaceae), all of which are shrubs and small trees that are native to eastern North America and eastern Asia. Some are grown for their yellow flowers, with four narrow, twisted ribbonlike petals, borne on warm winter days or in early spring.

What are witch hazel products?

Witch hazel products are made using the stem, bark, or leaves of the witch hazel plant ( Hamamelis virginiana ), a shrub that is native to North America. Witch hazel has been used for skin benefits for a long time, with Native Americans having been documented using the plant’s extracts.

What is witch hazel & how does it work?

People have applied witch hazel for centuries to soothe minor skin problems like bug bites, diaper rash, and hemorrhoids. The remedy comes from a North American shrub. The plant contains chemicals that ease redness, itching, and inflammation. Witch hazel is one of the few plants that meet the FDA's standards for safety and effectiveness.

Witch Hazel References

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