How to use Witch Hazel! But is it any good?

What is witch hazel then?

Witch hazel is a natural astringent; it causes contraction within human skin cells. It is made from the shrub native to North America, know scientifically as Hamamelis Virginiana. It is a natural plant and has been harvested for years for its various properties on the body.

What’s all the fuss about? What is witch hazel used for and why is it on tons of beauty websites and all over social media?

There’s many an article like this online outlining witch hazel for skin benefits, and even going as far to say that it can help heal bruises and get rid of every aliment under the sun.

Generally speaking, witch hazel is primarily being used for its results as a ‘facial cleanser’ and toner due to its astringent abilities and also used around the home a lot and even on your pet cat or dog.

According to wikipedia: “The main constituents of the witch hazel extract include calcium oxalate, gallotannins, safrole, as well as chemicals found in the essential oil (carvacrol, eugenol).

Witch hazel is mainly used externally on sores, bruises, and swelling. As a hydrosol, it is used in skin care as an astringent and anti-oxidant. It is often used as a natural remedy for psoriasis and eczema; in aftershave and in-grown nail applications and to prevent facial sweating and cracked/blistered skin, and for treating insect bites, poison ivy, and hemorrhoids. However, clinical studies supporting its effectiveness for these skin conditions are generally lacking.” Source: Wikipedia

It does state that evidence is lacking for further reported uses including gastrointestinal maladies (diarrhea, coughing up/vomiting blood), general infections such as colds and the specific infection tuberculosis, as well as eye inflammation. (Not sure that Witch hazel is meant to go in the eyes either.)

There’s no side effects listed on WebMd for witch hazel, obviously I wouldn’t go drinking a pint of the stuff, but it looks like witch hazel is actually pretty damn good for the claims that scatter the internet.

So looking to get rid of those bruises? Grab a bottle of witch hazel I suppose!