Witch hazel
— Materia Medica
Snapshot
Witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana) — specific reference entry in your Materia Medica.
Parts usedBark & leaf (astringent); commercial distillate (topical)
Primary actionsAstringent; hemostatic (mild)
SystemsSkin; Vascular
PreparationsTopical witch‑hazel distillate/tonerBark/leaf decoction for external compressesSmall internal astringent use per practitioner guidance
NotesClassic North American astringent. Commercial distillate is primarily topical; whole‑plant decoctions are more tannic. Useful for puffy/tired tissues and minor weepy skin concerns.
SafetyEducational content. Consult a qualified professional regarding individual use, especially with medications, pregnancy, or medical conditions.
Identification & Harvest
Preparations
Safety
Related Research
No studies yet.
References
Educational content only; not medical advice.