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Hamamelis Virginiana

Witch Hazel

Commonly known as witch hazel, is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to North America. A notable characteristic of witch hazel is its unique flowering pattern of strap-like petals that are often yellow or orange and bloom in late fall to early winter.

COMMON NAME

Witch-hazel, common witch-hazel, American witch-hazel and beadwood

FAMILY NAME

Witch-hazels

ACTIONS

Witch hazel is an astringent and anti-inflammatory.

BENEFITS

Witch hazel extracts are commonly used topically for skin conditions such as insect bites, bruises, and minor skin irritations.

BENEFITS
Witch hazel(Hamamelis virginiana) offers a range of benefits primarily in skincare and traditional medicine. Its astringent properties, attributed to tannins, make it effective for toning and tightening the skin, reducing the appearance of pores, and controlling oil production. Witch hazel is commonly utilized to soothe skin irritations such as insect bites, cuts, and bruises, and it is a popular ingredient in acne treatment products due to its anti-inflammatory effects. It also provides relief for conditions like sunburn, hemorrhoids, and certain skin disorders, offering a natural remedy for itching and inflammation.
USAGE
As a natural astringent, witch hazel can be applied topically on the face using a cotton pad to tone and tighten the skin, helping to reduce the appearance of pores and control excess oil. For skin irritations like insect bites or minor cuts, applying witch hazel directly can provide soothing relief due to its anti-inflammatory effects. Incorporating witch hazel into a skincare routine is common, but it can also serve as a natural makeup remover gently cleansing the skin. It can also be applied to the scalp to balance oil production and promote overall scalp health.
MORE INFO
Theindigenous in North America were the first to discover witch hazel’s medicinal properties utilizing it for treating skin conditions and inflammations. European settlers later adopted its use in the 19th century, leading to the widespread popularity of distilled witch hazel extract. The name "witch hazel" reflects the plant's flexibility and hazel-like appearance. Over time, it became a key ingredient in various skincare products thanks to its astringent and anti-inflammatory qualities.