Hamamelis properties and contraindications We have received several questions about the witch hazel plant, its properties and if it has contraindications. Since this plant is very popular, especially among those who suffer from hemorrhoids, we consider it important to point out these aspects, especially those related to side effects and contraindications that hardly anyone mentions and that it is necessary to know before using witch hazel.
However, before detailing these aspects, we will briefly discuss this plant from a botanical point of view.
Witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana) is a member of the small family Hamamelidaceae, which contains 23 species of shrubs and trees.
He witch hazel it is a slow-growing deciduous shrub that can reach up to 16 feet (5 m) by 16 feet. It can grow as a small tree, but this is rarer. In winter, this perennial produces distinctive-looking, fragrant flowers, which can range from yellow to orange to red, and can even be purple, followed by brown fruit capsules.
When mature, these capsules expel the seeds up to 12 feet (4 m) away. The leaves have large wavy teeth on the margins, and the upper surface is dark green, while the lower surface is paler.
Botanists have identified two varieties of natural witch hazel. The first, also known as “common” or “standard” witch hazel, is Hamamelis virginiana var. virginiana, which can be found from Nova Scotia to Virginia.
The «prairie variety» of witch hazel (H. virginiana var. parvifolia), on the other hand, is found primarily in Ohio. There is also a cultivar, ‘Rubescens’, developed for landscaping and favored for its reddish flowers. In addition to these varieties, many hybrid species have also been developed, notably by mixing Hamamelis virginiana with its close relatives, the Japanese and Chinese hazelnuts (H. japonica and H. mollis).
Economic data Historically and today, witch hazel is widely used for its medicinal benefits. It is also widely used in the beauty industry, appearing in lotions, creams, and skin washes.
Witch hazel is often found as an ingredient in toners and cleansers. The most common witch hazel product available in the US is made from whole branches of the shrub. Extracts from the bark are only used in Europe. Witch hazel saplings are also sold as living fences and parking lots, as the plant’s low water requirements make it a practical choice for urban settings.
popular beliefs Con hazel was used by Native Americans to find underground water sources. European settlers noted that the natives knew there was water under the earth when the end of dowsing was bent, so this practice was exported to Europe. Until the 20th century, dowsing was an essential part of the well-digging process.
Other uses The cosmetic industry benefits most from witch hazel. Due to its natural astringent and anti-inflammatory properties, the herb is used as an ingredient in commercial products to treat acne. acnereduce puffy eyes and sunburn relaxing. Let’s see, below, more about witch hazel properties and contraindications.
..
Hamamelis properties and contraindications
Properties of witch hazel for health
Witch hazel products contain flavonoids, tannins (hamametilanin and proanthocyanidins), and small amounts of volatile oil, among other things. Proanthocyanins have been found to reduce inflammation and have antiviral activity against HIV. herpes. The various properties of witch hazel have some important medicinal uses:
Help damaged skin. Witch hazel contains tannins that can help reduce inflammation, help fight bacteria, and repair broken skin. This is what is responsible for most of the medicinal benefits of witch hazel.
reduce the symptoms of hemorrhoids. Applying witch hazel to the skin can help relieve itching, burning, discomfort, and irritation caused by hemorrhoids.
Reduce minor bleeding. Applying witch hazel to the skin can reduce minor bleeding.
.
How does it work
The tannins and flavonoids in witch hazel are responsible for the plant’s skin-healing properties, with studies demonstrating the calming effect these compounds have on the skin.
Furthermore, proanthocyanidins seem to work by inhibiting inflammatory mediators and platelet activation formation, which is one of the main causes of inflammation. Flavonoids are particularly recognized for their activity antioxidantwhich contributes to the healing benefits of the plant.
Anti-inflammatory and emollient properties can be found in jojoba, aloe and rose, while liverwort and mallow also offer astringent benefits.
.
Contraindications and side effects of witch hazel
No side effects have been reported for consuming witch hazel, and the herb is generally considered safe. However, sensitive people may experience allergic reactions after using witch hazel topically. Nor is it convenient to use a witch hazel toner if you have oily skin.
In this sense, it is important to note that witch hazel for oily skin has received a lot of interest lately. We understand how tempting a witch hazel toner sounds, as it’s readily available, inexpensive, natural, and seems like a smart choice for keeping oily skin in check. Witch hazel can strip oil from your skin, but that’s because of the denatured alcohol (ethanol) it contains.
Most witch hazel preparations contain between 14% and 15% alcohol, an amount that can significantly irritate the skin. Even if you don’t see or feel that happening on the surface of your skin, the irritation is still happening, below the surface.
In short, we recommend against using witch hazel for oily or sensitive skin as it can end up significantly irritating the skin.
.
Also know
Lavender: benefits and contraindications
Benefits of grapes for skin and hair
Burdock: benefits and contraindications
chamomile oil for skin
Ocotea essential oil, what is it for?
Fig benefits for skin and hair
Mustard oil for skin, hair and more
video of the month