Witch hazel

Witch Hazel is a genus of flowering plants in the family Hamamelidaceae, with four species in North America (H. ovalis, H. virginiana, H. vernalis, and H. mollis) and one in Japan (H. japonica). The North American species are commonly known as witch hazels and are used in traditional medicine and skincare products.

Description

Witch hazels are deciduous shrubs or small trees, growing to 10–25 feet tall, rarely to 40 feet tall. The leaves are alternately arranged, oval, 2–6 inches long and 1–4 inches broad, with a smooth or wavy margin. The flowers are produced in late fall, before the leaves fall off, with four golden-yellow petals, produced in clusters along the stems.

Uses

Witch hazel has a variety of uses in traditional medicine, primarily for skin conditions. It is used as an astringent, to tighten the skin and reduce inflammation. It is also used to treat acne, insect bites, blisters, and other skin irritations. In addition, witch hazel has been used to treat hemorrhoids and varicose veins.

In skincare products, witch hazel is often used as a natural toner, to balance the skin's pH and remove excess oil. It is also used in aftershave lotions and creams, to soothe and heal the skin after shaving.

Cultivation

Witch hazel is a hardy plant that can be grown in a variety of conditions, but it prefers well-drained soil and partial shade. It is propagated by seed, which must be stratified for at least one year before planting.

Species

The four North American species of witch hazel are:

• Hamamelis virginiana, commonly known as American witch hazel
• Hamamelis vernalis, commonly known as Ozark witch hazel
• Hamamelis ovalis, commonly known as Big-leaf witch hazel
• Hamamelis mollis, commonly known as Chinese witch hazel

The Japanese species is:

• Hamamelis japonica, commonly known as Japanese witch hazel

See also

• List of plants used in herbalism
• List of garden plants