Herbs have been used for centuries to treat physical problems. Even today, they are of great importance as an alternative treatment. The specialty of this treatment method is that natural things have been included in it. In this article of Myhealthonly, we are giving information about the medicinal properties of one such special herb, witch hazel. It is potent medicine, which can play a helpful role in the prevention and treatment of many physical problems, but it cannot be considered a perfect treatment. Let us first know what is witch hazel and what can be the benefits of witch hazel for the body.
At the beginning of this article, it is important to first know what is witch hazel.
What Is Witch Hazel?
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Witch hazel is a flowering plant that is found in North America, Japan, and China. It is also called winter bloom. Its scientific name is Hamamelis virginiana. It is a bushy plant and its height can be from 15 to 20 feet. There are many species of it. It is rich in medicinal properties, hence it is also used as medicine.
After knowing what is witch hazel, now it is time to know the benefits of witch hazel. Below we are giving you information about its benefits.
Health Benefits Of Witch Hazel
Although the benefits of witch hazel are many, it is not possible to tell about them all. Therefore, we are giving information about some important benefits here. Know the benefits of witch hazel in detail below.
- Benefits of Witch Hazel for Eczema and Psoriasis
Individuals suffering from eczema or psoriasis can take witch hazel benefits. Both of these are dermatological diseases, in which the skin becomes scaly and red. Along with this, there is also a burning sensation in the skin and severe itching. In this case, these effects can be reduced by using witch hazel. Actually, essential oil, tannin, catechins, and choline are found in it. All these properties make it an effective antioxidant and astringent, which can help relieve skin problems.
You can use witch hazel with glycerin or you can also apply an ointment, but it is better to consult a doctor about this. The doctor will tell you how to use it according to the severity of your problem.
- Benefits of Witch Hazel for Ear Infection
Sometimes ear infections are caused by bacteria and viruses. In this case, the use of witch hazel may prove to be beneficial, as it has antibacterial, antiviral, and antiseptic properties, which may help reduce infection, but more research is needed on this. Victims can put a drop or two of witch hazel into the ear with the help of a dropper. It is better that you take the advice of a doctor once before using it, because the doctor will tell whether you can use it or not, depending on the severity of the infection.
- Using Witch Hazel for Stretch Marks
It is normal to have stretch marks during pregnancy. In such a situation, some people also use witch hazel to lighten the marks of stretch marks. However, how much and how effective it is on stretch marks, there is no scientific evidence yet.
- Using Witch Hazel for Varicose Veins
Swollen or twisted veins under the skin are called varicose veins. This usually happens in the veins of the legs. People who are obese and pregnant women are more prone to this problem. In such a situation, witch hazel can reduce this problem to some extent. Using witch hazel ointment available on the market two to three times can reduce this problem to a great extent, but applying it can cause skin irritation for some people. Therefore, it is better to use it only on the advice of a doctor.
- Using Witch Hazel for Post Shave Irritation
Some people feel a burning sensation after shaving. In this case, witch hazel can be used to get relief from irritation after shaving. Its antioxidant, astringent, and anti-inflammatory properties can help relieve skin irritation or itching.
- Using Witch Hazel for Chicken Pox
In the problem of chickenpox caused by a viral infection, the victim also starts itching many times. In this case, the problem of itching can be relieved by the use of witch hazel. The anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and soothing properties of witch hazel can help relieve the problem of chickenpox. For this, witch hazel can be used along with marigold flowers. Marigold flower contains moisture, which can help in retaining moisture in the skin. For this, soak marigold flowers and witch hazel leaves in water overnight and make a paste of it the next day to get relief from itching caused by chickenpox.
- Witch Hazel for Cold Sores
Sometimes herpes simplex virus causes blisters around the mouth and nose, also known as cold sores. In such a situation, the use of witch hazel can get relief from this problem. The antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties of witch hazel can prove to be helpful in relieving cold sores. Keep in mind that for its treatment, you must also consult a doctor.
- Using Witch Hazel for Diaper Rash
Children may have many problems, due to which parents get worried. Diaper rash is a common skin problem in babies between 4 and 15 months of age. Diaper rash is the most common problem in young children. Babies and toddlers suffer a lot due to diaper rash. In such a situation, the use of witch hazel can be beneficial for them. Witch hazel can reduce the problem of itching or burning of the skin. You can apply witch hazel ointment to your baby. However, also consult a pediatrician in this matter, as babies have sensitive skin, due to which they may also have other skin-related problems.
- Uses of Witch Hazel for Eyes
Dust soil, pollution, and lack of sleep can cause many eye-related problems such as conjunctivitis and swelling under the eyes. In such a situation, the use of witch hazel can provide relief from these problems. For this, soak a cotton ball in witch hazel and apply it around your eyes. The anti-inflammatory properties present in it can relieve the discomfort of inflammation under the eyes and conjunctivitis.
- Use of Witch Hazel for Insect Bites
Many times the problem of mosquito-fly or other insect-pests increases during the summer rainy season. Sometimes their bites cause constant itching, burning, and even swelling. In such a situation, using witch hazel can provide relief to a great extent. Its astringent property can provide relief from problems caused by insect bites. You can use ointments or liquids that contain witch hazel available on the market.
- Using Witch Hazel for Acne
Almost everyone is troubled by the problem of acne and pimples, especially people with oily skin. In this situation, witch hazel can be effective to prevent acne/pimples. The tannins present in it have astringent properties. Apart from this, witch hazel also has antiseptic, anti-inflammatory properties, which it is also used in many cosmetic products. You can also use a cream containing witch hazel to remove pimples.
- Witch Hazel As A Toner For Skin
It is very important to follow some skincare routine to keep the skin healthy. They include cleansing and toning. If we talk about toning, then you can use witch hazel as a toner. Toner can help in tightening the skin and preventing the dust and dirt present in the environment from entering the skin. In this case, witch hazel can be used as a natural toner or a toner containing witch hazel can also be used.
- Uses of Witch Hazel to Keep Scalp and Hair Healthy
Nowadays, problems related to falling hair or scalp have become common. Many times people ignore it by taking it lightly, due to which they have to suffer later. In such a situation, it is necessary to take care of them in time and take care of them. You can use witch hazel to keep your scalp healthy and to eliminate any kind of itching, or burning. Along with this, it can also help in keeping the hair clean.
- Benefits of Witch Hazel for Blackheads
Small black spots on the skin are called blackheads. If it is not taken care of in time, then it can stain the beauty of the face. In such a situation, the use of witch hazel can be very beneficial. Salicylic acid is very beneficial for removing blackheads. At the same time, the properties of salicylic acid are present in witch hazel, which can prove to be helpful in reducing blackheads.
- Witch Hazel As Anti-Aging
The effect of aging starts showing in the form of wrinkles on the face. In such a situation, many people use anti-aging creams. However, its effect lasts only for some time. In this situation, you can try herbal remedies and witch hazel is one of them. Witch hazel has anti-aging properties, which can help reduce wrinkles. Also, it can be very effective on sunburns. Some people have sensitive skin. Such people may be allergic to witch hazel. Therefore, you should use it only on the advice of the doctor.
For the benefits of witch hazel, it is also necessary to use it properly. Let us know about the uses of witch hazel in this part of the article.
How to Use Witch Hazel
Find out below how witch hazel can be used.
- Witch hazel can be used to remove makeup. For this, boil water by taking witch hazel as needed, and then when the water cools down, remove your makeup by dipping cotton in that water.
- You can also use witch hazel as an ointment.
- There is also a spray of witch hazel available in the market, which you can apply to the skin.
Now it’s time to find out the side effects of Witch Hazel. In this part of the article, we are giving information about this.
Side Effects Of Witch Hazel
If everything has benefits, there are also side effects. Similarly, along with the benefits of witch hazel, there are also side effects of witch hazel using more, such as –
- Consumption of witch hazel can cause stomach problems.
- Pregnant and lactating women should use witch hazel on the advice of a doctor.
- Some people may have a skin allergy to witch hazel.
There is no scientific evidence yet about the side effects of witch hazel. The side effects mentioned above are based on estimates, so one should limit their use of witch hazel with caution.
Note: The amount of witch hazel to be used depends on the age and health of the person. Therefore, your doctor can tell you better how much to use. Also, do a patch test before using it.
Hope you have got enough information about this strangely named plant witch hazel. Keep in mind that we are not claiming that the benefits of witch hazel mentioned above will completely cure the diseases mentioned above. The use of witch hazel can play a helpful role in preventing and treating these problems. Our suggestion would be that home remedies are fine to an extent, if the problem seems serious, then do not delay in consulting a doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions –
Witch hazel astringent is an extract made from the leaves and bark of witch hazel.
Actually, witch hazel pads are cotton pads that have been soaked in witch hazel astringent.
Yes, you can use witch hazel on the skin of babies in very small amounts.
