Witch Hazel
Important Disclaimer
This is not medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before using any remedy, especially if pregnant, breastfeeding, on medication, or managing a health condition.
Overview
Witch Hazel is a unique flowering shrub native to eastern North America, notable for blooming in late autumn and winter when all other trees are bare. It is one of the most important North American medicinal plants and among the best-studied herbal astringents. The bark and leaves contain an exceptionally high concentration of tannins (up to 10%), particularly hamamelitannin and gallotannins, providing powerful astringent, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and hemostatic properties. The distilled witch hazel hydrosol is one of the most widely used topical herbal preparations in North America, sold in virtually every pharmacy. It is FDA-recognized as a skin protectant.
Traditional Use
Witch Hazel holds a prominent place in Native North American medicine and is one of the most important plants introduced to European medicine by Indigenous peoples. The Potawatomi, Mohegan, Cherokee, Iroquois (Haudenosaunee), Ojibwe, Menominee, and many other nations had extensive uses for witch hazel. The Potawatomi used the steamed twigs for sore muscles and swellings. The Mohegan used bark tea as a general astringent and tonic. The Cherokee used a bark decoction for tumors, inflammation, and sore throats. Many tribes used it topically for skin conditions, bruises, hemorrhoids, insect bites, and wound care. Witch hazel tea was drunk for dysentery and heavy menstrual bleeding. The branches were used as divining (water-witching) rods — one theory for the "witch" in its name. European settlers quickly adopted witch hazel from Native Americans. The first commercial witch hazel distillate was produced in the 1840s by druggist Theron T. Pond, who learned of it from the Oneida people. By 1900, it was one of the best-selling natural remedies in America. It received FDA approval as a skin protectant and is currently included in the FDA OTC monograph for minor skin irritation, hemorrhoids, and as a topical astringent.
Key Active Compounds
Hamamelitannin
A unique tannin specific to Hamamelis species, found in the bark and leaves. Provides potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and astringent properties. Has antiproliferative properties studied in the context of skin health.
Gallotannins and Ellagitannins
High concentrations of complex tannins (up to 10% of dry weight) providing the primary astringent effects — tightening skin, reducing bleeding, decreasing inflammation, and providing antimicrobial activity.
Proanthocyanidins (Procyanidins)
Oligomeric flavonoids providing antioxidant activity, collagen-protective effects, and anti-inflammatory properties. Present in leaves and bark.
Note on Commercial Witch Hazel
IMPORTANT: Commercial distilled witch hazel (the clear liquid sold in pharmacies) contains minimal tannins — they are largely not steam-distillable. The astringent effect of commercial distillate comes partly from 14% added alcohol. For true tannin-rich preparations, use the bark or leaf tea/extract.
Evidence-Based Benefits
Skin Astringent and Toner
StrongFDA-recognized skin protectant. The tannins physically tighten skin and pores, reduce sebum production, and have mild antimicrobial effects. Excellent for acne, enlarged pores, oily skin, and as a gentle skin toner.
Hemorrhoid and Rectal Relief
StrongFDA-approved for hemorrhoid treatment. Clinical studies and extensive traditional use confirm effectiveness for reducing hemorrhoidal pain, itching, and inflammation. A component of many OTC hemorrhoid products.
Anti-inflammatory and Wound Healing
Moderate evidenceBark and leaf extracts significantly reduce inflammation in clinical studies. Used for minor cuts, abrasions, bruises, insect bites, sunburn, and eczema. The hamamelitannin content provides unique anti-inflammatory properties distinct from simple astringency.
Antioxidant
Some studiesWitch hazel extract demonstrates significant free radical scavenging activity in laboratory studies. The hamamelitannin and proanthocyanidins protect cells from oxidative damage relevant to skin aging and photoprotection.
Common Preparation Methods
Topical Application (Distillate)
Apply commercially prepared witch hazel distillate to skin using a cotton pad or ball. Allow to dry.
Dosage: Apply 1–4 times daily to affected skin areasSAFE and widely available. Excellent for acne, oily skin, insect bites, sunburn, and as a general toner. Note: commercial distillate has limited tannin content — for stronger astringent effects, use bark extract.
Bark or Leaf Infusion (Strong Astringent)
Simmer 1–2 teaspoons of dried witch hazel bark in 2 cups of water for 20 minutes, or steep leaves for 15 minutes. Strain and cool.
Dosage: Apply topically as needed; or use 1 cup internally for diarrhea (short-term only)Contains the full tannin profile including hamamelitannin. For topical compresses on hemorrhoids, wounds, bruises, and varicosities. Internal use for heavy bleeding or diarrhea should be short-term and supervised.
Hemorrhoid Compress
Soak a soft cloth or cotton pad in cooled witch hazel bark infusion or commercial witch hazel. Apply as a cool compress to affected area for 15–20 minutes.
Dosage: Apply after each bowel movement and up to 4 times dailyVery effective relief for external hemorrhoids. Cold witch hazel reduces inflammation and discomfort. This is one of the most evidence-supported applications.
Eye Wash (Very Dilute)
Prepare a very weak infusion of witch hazel leaves (1/4 teaspoon per cup). Cool completely and filter through fine cloth or coffee filter.
Dosage: Use as an eye rinse for conjunctivitis or tired eyes 1–2 times dailyTraditional use — Cherokee eye wash. Must be very dilute and scrupulously clean. Many practitioners prefer using commercial sterile eye wash preparations for safety.
Safety & Cautions
Please read carefully before use
Contraindications
- Allergy to witch hazel (uncommon — patch test first if sensitive skin)
- Internal use caution: tannin-rich preparations can cause constipation with regular use
- Avoid applying to deep wounds or on damaged skin with active infection without medical supervision
Drug Interactions
- Topical use: no significant interactions
- Internal use: high tannin content may reduce absorption of iron and some medications — take separately
- Internal use: large amounts of tannins may interfere with digestive enzymes
Possible Side Effects
- Topical: generally very safe; occasional mild skin dryness with excessive use
- Rare contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals
- Internal use: nausea, vomiting with large amounts due to high tannin content
- Internal high-dose: liver concerns with very high tannin intake (rare)
Special Populations
- Topical use is safe for children, pregnant and breastfeeding women, and elderly
- One of the safest topical herbal preparations available
- Internal use should be short-term and preferably supervised
- Safe for most skin types — the commercial distillate is extremely gentle
- People with very sensitive or dry skin should use diluted preparations
Sources & References
US Food and Drug Administration
Native American Ethnobotany Database
Quick Reference
Hamamelidaceae
Bark, Leaves, Twigs, Distilled extract (hydrosol)
Very astringent, bitter, drying, slightly cooling
Safety First
Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before starting any new remedy, especially if you have existing health conditions or take medications.