Witch hazel leaf, powder

Witch Hazel Healing

Witch hazel is an old-fashioned remedy that’s been used for centuries. Many people have dismissed it for more modern solutions, but witch hazel shouldn’t be forgotten. Witch hazel is actually a shrub which has bark that’s used for medicinal purposes. Oil is extracted from the bark and the essential oils are then combined with alcohol.

Once the powerful extracts are prepared, witch hazel can be used for a variety of purposes. It actually makes a soothing, astringent lotion that can be used to treat external wounds and skin irritations. It will calm the sting of sunburn and insect bites. It can also reduce pain and swelling from scrapes, minor cuts, and bruises.

Witch hazel has chemicals that constrict the blood vessels called vasoconstrictors. These chemicals actually work to reduce swelling. If you have problems with hemorrhoids, witch hazel is a great antidote. Treating a hemorrhoid with pads soaked in witch hazel will help to shrink it and relieve your discomfort. This is a great remedy for pregnant women who have to be careful about what types of medications they use.

While witch hazel is great for medicinal purposes, it’s also a kind of all-purpose skin care product. It can be used to remove makeup and oil from the skin. It’s also good to use as an aftershave. And if you’re suffering from acne, witch hazel can be used to shrink pimples and reduce swelling and inflammation.

In addition to external uses, the witch hazel plant also provides a tasty treat. Hazel nuts are the nuts from the plant and are a popular addition to many foods and candies. This delicious nut is also used as a flavoring for coffee.

If you’re suffering from internal problems such as mouth sores, diarrhea, and dry mouth witch hazel tea may be a good solution for you. You simply infuse 2-3 grams of the dried leaves in hot water for about 10 minutes. Strain the leaves before drinking the tea. You can also use witch hazel tea as a mouthwash to treat problems with inflamed gums and cold sores.

You can purchase witch hazel lotions over the counter at most pharmacies. You’ll find it near the Epsom salts and alcohol. This formulation shouldn’t be taken internally because it’s combined with isopropyl alcohol which is toxic if taken internally.

For making herbal teas and mouthwash, you’ll want to buy the dried leaves. The next time you have a bruise or skin irritation, you need to look no further than witch hazel for healing.