Exploring the Many Uses of Witch Hazel
Witch hazel is a plant native to North America, and its extract has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties.
Today, witch hazel is an over-the-counter product that is still widely used as an herbal remedy for a variety of conditions, including skin irritations, inflammation, and bruises. It is also a popular ingredient in many skincare products.
Witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana) is a fiery yellow and orange flowering plant that grows on short, deciduous shrubs.
The Many Uses of Witch Hazel
American varieties are called winter blooms. The flowers look like spiders and emit a subtle sweet scent.
Even if the plant doesn’t appeal to you aesthetically, it’s bound to prove beneficial for household uses.
The research found that extracts from its barks and leaves were added as the main ingredient in many Native American medicinal home remedies for skin.
The Basics: What Is Witch Hazel?
Most uses of witch hazel are associated with the tannins-rich extracts that make it a natural source for organic astringent, antiseptic, and antibacterial ingredients.
These biochemical properties are the primary reason it’s one of the few FDA-approved plants included in drugstores without prescriptions.
Fun fact: Witch hazel branches are one of the tree branches used for water dowsing to locate underground water sources.
Exploring the Uses of Witch Hazel for Skin
Once the secret was out, witch hazel extracts started making a frequent appearance on commercial skincare labels.
Here’s a closer look at the natural benefits of witch hazel:
#1. Treats Skin Blemishes Naturally
Whether you have oily skin or sensitive skin, you’ve probably experienced a fair share of cosmetic mishaps. The use of witch hazel is sure to help.
These ointments contain a cocktail of chemicals and harsh substances that strip away skin nutrients. In turn, these treatments leave our skin feeling dry and rough.
Witch hazel has the opposite effect. For instance, witch hazel deals with blemishes (like acne, eye puffiness, cold sores) by reducing inflammation and gently erasing residual marks. Make sure to use witch hazel as a toner. I like Humphrey’s Lilac Witch Hazel Toner.
In addition to this, you can use witch hazel extract for its deep-cleansing action in eliminating skin impurities, germs, and washing off makeup as part of a natural skincare and makeup routine.
You can use it as a:
- Toner
- Moisturizer
- Facial cleanser
- Anti-acne treatment
Moreover, it rejuvenates skin health with its high antioxidant and astringent quotient. That allows you to maintain healthy and youthful skin for years.
Homesteading Tip: Witch hazel remedies are advantageous for scalp problems too. You can use it to tackle dandruff, dry scalp, sunburned scalp, and itchiness.
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#2. A Must-Have Essentials for Hiking, Camping, and Sunny Days
Traditional medicinal uses of witch hazel make it an excellent remedy for any skin-related problem you’ll face under the sun. Spray bottle of witch hazel is perfect for travel
For example:
- It has been used to protect you from harsh UV rays. The anti-inflammatory and astringent properties of witch hazel reduce the risk of sunburns and rashes. Topical usage is recommended whenever you step out of the house. Plus, consider using witch hazel for after-sun care.
- It heals minor wounds. Its cooling properties and antiseptic qualities are similarly effective in treating bruises, scars, stretch marks, etc.
- It soothes bug bites. Like camping but hate itchy bites? You can help counter the consequences of an insect invasion during your outdoorsy ventures with witch hazel as it can be somewhat helpful it dealing with the itch.
In short, you can amp the power of home remedies for skin, DIY first-aid kits, and sunscreen by slipping witch hazel into the mix.
Witch Hazel products are readily available at the store or online:
Medical sites that mention Witch Hazel’s usefulness:
#3. It Comes in Handy When Cleaning Messes and Spills
Aside from the many skin benefits of witch hazel, you can also add this organic ingredient to your homemade cleaning solutions.
First of all, you need are lukewarm water, a squeeze of freshly cut lemon, and witch hazel extract.
Next, mix and shake the solution before spraying it on unclean surfaces. Then scrub off stains, sticky marks, and dirt with a microfiber cloth.
Citrus-infused witch hazel cleaning agents are well-suited for tiles, metallic surfaces, glass surfaces, and small jewelry.
Even though most commercial products are for skin toning, these same products can be used very successfully as house hold cleaning agents as well.
Is Witch Hazel Safe for Digestive Health?
Edible witch hazel remains a very controversial topic amongst herbalists and modern scientists. Traditionalists cut barks and leave to make healing brews and teas.
They use this to treat an upset stomach and digestive complaints (like diarrhea, stomach ache, dysentery, and other infections).
However, there are no conclusive studies to prove these claims.
In contrast, modern science prohibits ingestion. High quantities of witch hazel can cause side effects like:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Liver poisoning
It’s important to consult your healthcare provider before considering home remedies for skin that require ingestion.
Always check with your doctor before attempting to eat or ingest witch hazel.
Since witch hazel brews are off the table at the moment, maybe read about using refreshing cup of tulsi tea. Its active antioxidants allow you to detox and boost digestive health with no significant side effects.
Homesteading Tip:
Topical uses of witch hazel are widely accepted in the cosmetic and medical industry. However, you should test a patch of your skin before using it to prevent the risk of any side effects.
But, as always, double check with your healthcare provider prior to using any home remedy.
In Conclusion:
Overall, these amazing benefits of witch hazel prove that nature has a treasure trove of resources for medical remedies.
It is used to heal wounds and treat common ailments without any harmful chemicals involved. Even science turns to these century-old practices by promoting organic, skin-safe remedies.
Therefore, in short, if you’re interested in living a cleaner and greener lifestyle, add this magical plant to your garden and your medicine cabinet.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. In strict accordance with FDA regulations the information and products on this website are not intended to treat, cure, prevent, mitigate or diagnose any illness or disease.