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Witch Hazel

General Information

OTHER NAMES: American witch hazel, Common witch hazel, Hamamelis virginiana


HISTORY: Used as a medicinal plant by Indigenous peoples.


PROPERTIES: Antiinflammatory, antiseptic, astringent, antioxidant, antifungal, antiviral, antimicrobial

Considered Uses

Respiratory: Sore throat


Gastrointestinal: Hemorrhoids (German Commission E), cold sores, diarrhea


Genitourinary: Postmenopausal vaginal dryness


Skin: Minor injuries and inflammation (German Commission e) slows minor areas of bleeding by constricting blood vessels, stretch marks, dandruff, acne, stings/bites, abrasions, skin toner, itching, minor burns, outer eye inflammation, eczema, poison ivy, psoriasis


Other: Varicose veins (German Commission E), maybe anti-aging, TB, possibly fever


                                                            *   *   *


SIDE EFFECTS: Stomach upset (when taken orally), liver problems (large doses), allergic skin reactions


CAUTION/CONTRAINDICATIONS: None known


FORMS: Extract, poultice, leaves, bark, tea, extracts, lotions, soap, creams, suppositories


RECOMMENDED BRANDS

No available recommendations at this time


DOSAGE: As directed

Reported doses – May NOT be supported by evidence reported by various sources (WebMD, RxList, Epocrates, German Commission E and others). Read dosages and instructions carefully when available on the label.


  • Hemorrhoids: Apply witch hazel solution topically to the rectal area up to 6 times a day after each bowel movement

  • Sunburn: Apply 10% witch hazel lotion to the area once daily.


*Disclaimer: The material above is for informational purposes only. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure a condition. The uses listed above are tentative; some have or are undergoing research trials, but many are not FDA-approved. It is essential that you investigate these supplements further before deciding to use them. Check interactions and contraindications on sites like Drugs.com or WebMD. Do not attempt to treat a serious condition like liver, kidney problems, high blood pressure, heart, cancer, diabetes, or thyroid issues without discussing it with a healthcare provider first. If you are pregnant or nursing a baby, please do not use supplements without discussing it with your healthcare provider.



Witch Hazel

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*Disclaimer: The material above is for informational purposes only. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure a condition. The uses listed above are tentative; some have or are undergoing research trials, but many are not FDA-approved. It is essential that you investigate these supplements further before deciding to use them. Check interactions and contraindications on sites like Drugs.com or WebMD. Do not attempt to treat a serious condition like liver, kidney problems, high blood pressure, heart, cancer, diabetes, or thyroid issues without discussing it with a healthcare provider first. If you are pregnant, do not use supplements without discussing it with your healthcare provider.

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