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 While
witch hazel is originally from North America, today this potent herb
can also be found in many parts of central and southern Europe. Both
the leaves and the bark of the witch hazel plant have been used in
herbal medicine. It is believed that witch hazel may be useful when
used in connection with colds sores, eczema, and
hemorrhoids.
Witch hazel has been used historically to
relieve hemorrhoids, injuries, tumors, and ulcers. It has also been
used in landscaping due to its attractive leaves and flowers, which
bloom in the late summer. Witch hazel seeds, more commonly known as
hazel nuts, are popular food items.
The main constituents in
witch hazel that provide this herb with its strong astringent
effects are tanins and volatile oils. Preliminary studies suggest
that witch hazel strengthens veins and offers anti-inflammatory
effects and is useful in relieving such skin conditions as eczema.
However, some studies indicate that witch hazel cream is no more
effective at treating eczema than
hyrdocortisone.
Dosage and
Application
Tea is a very popular way for
administering witch hazel. To create a witch hazel tea, add 2 to 3
grams of witch hazel leave to boiling water for about 15 minutes.
Witch hazel tea can be taken two to three times a day. As a
tincture, take 2-4 mL three times a day.
In combination with
warm, moist compresses, witch hazel extracts can be applied directly
to hemorrhoids. For other skin problems, witch hazel ointment or
cream can be applied three or four times a
day.
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