Witch Hazel - Αμαμηλίδα - Hamamelis Virginiana
Each pack contains ½ cup (125ml) of the Herb. The weight varies due to the density of each herb.
Basic Medicinal Properties:
Witch hazel is a powerful medicinal herb with astringent, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. It promotes skin healing, reduces inflammation, soothes irritation, and supports circulation. Traditionally, it has been used to treat wounds, haemorrhoids, acne, and varicose veins.
Additional Details
Supports Skin Health and Wound Healing
Witch hazel is widely used in skincare for its ability to tighten and tone the skin. Its natural astringent properties help reduce acne, soothe rashes, and accelerate wound healing.
Reduces Inflammation and Soothes Irritation
Rich in tannins and flavonoids, witch hazel is a potent anti-inflammatory agent. It helps calm irritated skin, reduce redness, and relieve itching from conditions such as eczema and psoriasis.
Promotes Circulation and Reduces Swelling
Witch hazel has been traditionally used to improve circulation and reduce swelling in conditions such as varicose veins, bruises, and haemorrhoids. It strengthens capillaries and soothes vascular discomfort.
Aids in Haemorrhoid Relief
Due to its astringent and anti-inflammatory properties, witch hazel is commonly applied to haemorrhoids to reduce pain, swelling, and discomfort.
Soothes Sore Throats and Oral Inflammation
Witch hazel has mild antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects that make it useful as a natural mouthwash for gingivitis, sore throats, and gum inflammation.
Relieves Sunburn and Skin Burns
Witch hazel’s cooling and soothing effects help reduce sunburn redness, inflammation, and minor burns, providing relief and promoting faster healing.
Helps Treat Scalp Conditions and Dandruff
Witch hazel is often used in hair care to reduce scalp irritation, control oil production, and help manage dandruff.
About the Herb
Historical and Folklore Uses
Witch hazel has been used for centuries in Native American medicine for wound healing, insect bites, and skin conditions. Early settlers in North America adopted its use, and it became a staple in herbal medicine.
In the 19th century, witch hazel extracts were commercially distilled and became widely available as a household remedy for skin and vascular health.
Folklore and Symbolism
Witch hazel has long been associated with protection, purification, and divination. It was believed to have magical properties and was used in water divining, where branches were crafted into dowsing rods to locate underground water sources.
In folk traditions, witch hazel was thought to ward off evil spirits and negative energy. Some herbalists carried witch hazel twigs for good luck and protection.
Culinary and Traditional Uses
Witch hazel is commonly distilled into an astringent liquid used in skincare and first aid.
In herbal medicine, it has been used in poultices and compresses for bruises, sprains, and insect bites.
Some traditional cultures used witch hazel tea as a mild internal remedy for digestive issues and sore throats.
Interesting Facts
The name Hamamelis means “together with fruit,” referring to the unique way the plant produces flowers and seed pods at the same time.
Witch hazel’s seeds, known as “snapping seeds,” are ejected forcefully from the plant, sometimes up to several metres away.
It is one of the few medicinal plants still widely used in commercial skincare and first-aid products today.
Witch hazel’s traditional use as a divination tool in water dowsing was practised for centuries in both Native American and European traditions.