Witch hazel is an herbal medicine made from the extract of the Hamamelis virginiana plant endemic to the U.S. Long used in traditional medicine, witch hazel is often applied as a topical medication for the treatment of certain skin conditions, from acne to rashes.

It is able to do this because of its rich tannin content. Tannins are bitter-tasting organic compounds that act as astringents to eliminate germs and bacteria on the skin. Tannins are also great for constricting skin tissue and reducing signs of aging on the skin.

Proponents claim that witch hazel can also be used to treat other skin issues including bruises, burns, hemorrhoids, inflammation, insect bites and general itching. Some people also use witch hazel as a natural toner for cleansing the skin and tightening pores.

Medicinal uses of witch hazel

Most of the reported medicinal uses of witch hazel are related to skin health, from the skin of the armpits to that of the scalp. Here are some of them:

Tones skin

The natural antiseptic properties of witch hazel help protect the skin from dirt, oil, bacteria and other impurities. For this reason, it is often applied to the face after cleansing.

Eliminates oil

Some people can be more prone to greasier skin than others. Despite being harmless enough, oil can clog pores and trap impurities and contaminants inside, causing acne later on.

Treats acne

Hormonal imbalances due to menstruation can lead to full-on acne breakouts despite a good skincare regimen. For cases like these, it’s best to go organic and use natural medicines like witch hazel that help calm inflamed skin.

Protects against razor bumps

Witch hazel helps soothe inflamed bumps around hair follicles damaged from using blunt razors too often. To avoid painful razor bumps, run a cotton ball or cotton pad soaked in witch hazel over the skin after each shave.

Treats sunburn

The natural cooling effect of witch hazel helps treat sunburn pain and inflammation. It can also keep the skin from feeling that tingling and burning sensation reminiscent of sunburns.

Soothes bug bites

Like sunburns, stings and bug bits often cause pain and inflammation. For immediate relief, use witch hazel on the affected area. It should help reduce the itchiness and discomfort.

Soothes rashes

Exposure to certain allergens can trigger painful rashes in some people. To treat the itchiness and reduce the redness of the rashes, use witch hazel on the affected area.

Tightens pores

Open pores are a hotbed of bacteria, oil, dirt and other impurities that often land on the skin. Swipe a witch hazel-soaked cotton ball over open pores to close them up fast.

Calms redness

There are a lot of possible reasons for red, inflamed skin. But in most cases, the culprit is none other than blood rushing to get to the surface, often in response to damaged capillaries. Use witch hazel to tighten up these blood vessels and reduce redness.

Reduce dandruff

Witch hazel works as a natural treatment for dandruff. Massaging witch hazel onto the scalp also helps lock in moisture inside the follicles for healthier hair growth.

Tips for planting witch hazel

Witch hazel is a large shrub that sprouts colorful, fragrant blooms during the winter months. It also requires little to no maintenance, and is quite resistant to most pests and plant diseases.

That said, it does best under full sun or filtered shade in hotter regions. It also requires soil rich in organic matter.

If left to spread, the shrub can reach up to 30 feet tall. To keep it small, prune the shrub often after it blooms. You might also need to add mulch from time to time to keep the soil moist.