The Witch Hazel Plant is Useful for Digestion and Clear Skin

Although the benefits of the witch hazel plant are numerous, very few people actually know about this low-growing shrub with healing capabilities. Despite the name that suggests witchcraft, there is nothing to fear from this potent herb that is commonly used in herbal medication. Witch hazel can be found in many parts of central and southern Europe.

History of the Witch Hazel Plant

The branches of the plant were the wood of choice for dowsing rods at a point of time; the whole purpose was to find water. Even though the witch hazel plant was once used to locate hydration, in modern times it has come to be known as an herbal remedy. Historically the witch hazel shrub has been utilized to provide relief from injuries, tumors etc. The plant has also been used for landscaping as it has attractive leaves and flowers when in bloom.

What is the Witch Hazel Plant?

Witch hazel consists of tannins and volatile oils due to which this herb offers strong astringent effects; this is the reason behind the several benefits of the witch hazel plant. According to various studies, witch hazel strengthens veins and provides anti-inflammatory effects, which can be a great help in relieving multiple skin conditions. Witch hazel is useful for acne because of its astringent properties for example.

Witch Hazel Uses and Benefits

Witch hazel has astringent tannins that help tighten and relieve swollen veins or reduce inflammation temporarily. The plant also contains resin, procyanadins, and flavanoids, which boost the anti-inflammatory properties of the plant.

Soaking a cloth in strong witch hazel tea can effectively help in reducing pain resulting from bruises and hemorrhoids. The benefits of witch hazel are numerous; it can also serve to be an effective way to treat laryngitis. Throat problems can also be relieved by merely gargling with witch hazel, clove, and myrrh. It can even be used as a mouth rinse, a combination of witch hazel and myrrh can help to reduce swollen and infected gums.

Combining witch hazel with calendula and goldenseal can help to treat swimmer’s ear. Also, when witch hazel is mixed with arnica, it serves as a treatment for traumatic bruises, sprains and bumps promoting fast recovery.

Tea made from witch hazel, mint, chamomile, thyme can act as a great solution to treat conditions of diarrhea and stomach flu. It also helps control bleeding when applied to a wound.

Side Effects of Witch Hazel

Although there are many benefits of witch hazel, certain groups of people; for example, pregnant women should talk to their doctors before making use of this potent herb. If you experience certain conditions like breathing problems, chest tightness etc while using witch hazel, it is wise to contact your doctor. Although the majority of users would not suffer from these side effects, some people might and hence it is important to report to a professional if any problems are experienced.

Forms of Witch Hazel

You can use witch hazel extract, witch hazel oil, and witch hazel tea. It may be available in the form of lotions, suppositories, or hemorrhoidal pads. Witch hazel lotions can also be used by gardeners and carpenters to relieve rough, swollen hands. As you realize there are multiple benefits of witch hazel, if you want to give this potent herb a try then do not hesitate to do so. But make sure to talk to your physician if you have any questions.

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