Witch Hazel: Overview, Uses, Side Effects, Precautions, Interactions, Dosing and Reviews

Overview

Witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana) is a flowering shrub or small tree native to Eastern North America. Its leaf and bark are used as medicine.

Witch hazel contains chemicals called tannins, which might help reduce swelling and fight bacteria. Witch hazel water (Hamamelis water, distilled witch hazel extract) is a liquid that is distilled from dried leaves, bark, and twigs of witch hazel.

People use witch hazel for hemorrhoids. It is also used for eczema, acne, skin irritation, sunburn, and many other conditions, but there is no good evidence to support these uses.

Uses & Effectiveness

Possibly Effective for

Hemorrhoids. Applying witch hazel water to the skin may help relieve itching, discomfort, irritation, and burning from hemorrhoids.

Possibly Ineffective for

Eczema (atopic dermatitis). Applying witch hazel to the skin doesn't seem to improve eczema.

There is interest in using witch hazel for a number of other purposes, but there isn't enough reliable information to say whether it might be helpful.

Side Effects

When taken by mouth: Witch hazel is possibly safe. But because witch hazel contains tannins, high doses might cause more side effects and liver or kidney problems. Witch hazel also contains a cancer-causing chemical (safrole), but in amounts that are too small to be of concern.

When applied to the skin: Witch hazel water is likely safe. It might cause minor skin irritation in some people.

Special Precautions and Warnings

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There isn't enough reliable information to know if witch hazel is safe to use when pregnant or breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.

Children: Witch hazel is possibly safe for children when applied to the skin.

Interactions

We currently have no information for Witch Hazel overview.

Dosing

Witch hazel has most often been used by adults in topical creams, lotions, ointments, and solutions. Speak with a healthcare provider to find out what type of product and dose might be best for a specific condition.

View References

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