(also referred to as...)
Winter Bloom
Latin Name: Hamamelis virginiana
Family: Hamamelidaceae
Description
North American Indians commonly used witch hazel for its beneficial effect on swellings and even tumours. It is native to Canada and eastern parts of the United States. After the leaves have fallen in autumn, the yellow flowers start growing before the black nuts appear, which hold edible seeds.
Ailments / Situations Where Used
Witch hazel is seldom used internally these days, although the bark is a little milder than the twigs and leaves which. It is fine in small doses and in moderation. The high tannin content in the plant makes it useful for the external treatment of hemorrhoids, varicose veins, cuts, chilblains, nose bleeds, and to refresh tired skin and sore eyes.
This plant contains vitamin P (bioflavonoids) which helps protect capillaries and small blood vessels. The bioflavonoids are also antibacterial and anti-inflammatory. Witch hazel is used for spontaneous bruising and capillary fragility induced by steroid therapy, diarrhea, dysentery, hemorrhages, excessive mucous discharge, vaginal and penile discharge, and prolapsed uterus or intestines. It is good to take witch hazel as a tonic after abortions or miscarriages to restore the normal size of the womb.
Source
Leaves, branches, and bark.
Preparations
Decoction: Bring 1 cup water and 1/2 teaspoon bark to a boil, simmer for 10 minutes, and take when needed. This tea can be applied externally as well. Witch hazel distillate can be purchased from your local herbalist or quality health food store.
Contraindications / Precautions / Warnings
Witch hazel should not be taken internally during pregnancy unless medically supervised. External treatment is all right, in moderation.
Ailment / Situation Listing
| Bruising | Capillary Fragility | Chilblain |
| Cuts/Wounds | Diarrhea | Dysentery |
| Excessive Mucous Discharge | Hemorrhages | Hemorrhoids |
| Inflammation | Nose Bleeds | Prolapsed Uterus/Intestines |
| Restore Normal Size of Womb | Sore Eyes | Tendency to Bleed |
| Tired Skin | Vaginal/Penile Discharge | Varicose Veins |
All information contained on this website is for reference purposes only and all content should be treated as a resource. It is highly recommended that you consult with your naturopath or other health practitioner when undertaking self-treatment. For serious conditions, always seek the advice of your naturopath or other health practitioner. People taking medication should
consult with their naturopath or other health practitioner before undertaking additional regime for their ailment.
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