Why do they call it witch hazel?
While witch-hazel is a fascinating name, its origin has nothing to do with the characters who ride on brooms. It probably comes from the old English word wych, meaning “to bend. Dowsers used witch hazel branches as a “witching stick” to supposedly uncover precious metal or underground water springs. Yes, witch hazel can be used to relieve itching and discomfort associated with hemorrhoids. Witch hazel wipes can be used to clean the anus after a bowel movement.Available in wipes like Medicated Wipes and in gel like Cooling Gel, witch hazel is an astringent that can help cool, soothe, and provide temporary relief from the burning, itching, and discomfort of hemorrhoids.Beyond its medicinal and cosmetic applications, witch hazel holds a place in witchcraft and folk magic traditions, where it is used for protection and healing spells, as well as to ward off negative energies.Witch hazel is also an astringent, which is useful in cleansing wounds, inflammation, and in soothing the of skin. It can be applied especially on minor cuts, abrasions, as well as insect bites.
How quickly does witch hazel grow?
What is the growth rate of Witch Hazel? This shrub grows at a moderate growth rate, with height increases of 1 – 2 feet per year. Hazel grows in woodland, scrub and hedgerows. It can reach up to 12m in height. Small green catkins can be present in autumn. Hazel’s bark is smooth and grey-brown.Witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana) The flexible forked twigs of witch hazel are preferred as divining rods. Regardless, modern witches do consider witch hazel a magical plant, to ward off evil and to help heal a broken heart.Witch hazel should be planted on the north side of homes and on north-facing slopes (to provide some shade) at least 15 feet away from your home since it can spread that wide.While witch-hazel is a fascinating name, its origin has nothing to do with the characters who ride on brooms. It probably comes from the old English word wych, meaning “to bend. Dowsers used witch hazel branches as a “witching stick” to supposedly uncover precious metal or underground water springs.
What is another name for witch hazel?
Hamamelis virginiana (Common Witchhazel, Common Witch Hazel, Southern Witch Hazel, Witch Hazel, Witch-Hazel) | North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox. Witch hazel is a botanical astringent from the plant Hamamelis virginiana. Astringents shrink or tighten tissues in your body. This topical solution comes in the form of wipes or pads that you rub on your skin. It can relieve itching, burning and irritation caused by hemorrhoids or bowel movements.Although witch hazel contains a known cancer-causing ingredient, there’s likely no need for concern unless you regularly use high concentrations. The amounts are very small. Because studies are limited, avoid using witch hazel if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.The leaves and bark of Witch hazel are very useful. They taste bitter, containing tannic and gallic acids as well as a volatile oil. Its effects are astringent, tonic and sedative so preparations of Hamamelis virginiana are often used to treat internal and external bleeding.
Where not to put witch hazel?
Before trying witch hazel as a skin treatment, people may wish to do a patch test for 10 days to ensure the product does not cause skin irritation. Diluting witch hazel may also help prevent skin irritation. However, people need to avoid using witch hazel on broken skin. Witch hazel contains tannins and flavonoids that give it astringent and anti-inflammatory properties. Witch hazel can help clear some types of acne, soothe minor skin irritations, and keep the skin barrier healthy.Native Americans used the plant to treat the common cold, eye and liver conditions, and other illnesses. Early settlers also used the leaves to make tea for various medicinal purposes. Today, witch hazel is used in a variety of products, including ointments, soaps, and lotions.Aside from the key substance (tannins), many witch hazel products contain alcohol ingredients (like ethanol) that over-dry the skin and sometimes do more harm than good. Some variations can have up to 15 percent alcohol, which might be irritating to certain skin types like people with dry, acne-prone or sensitive skin.For example, you shouldn’t use products with niacinamide and Vitamin C, or retinoids with AHAs and BHAs, as they can contradict each other. Witch hazel is extremely gentle when mixed in a product without alcohol, so it can generally be used in conjunction with other ingredients without worry.Yes, witch hazel can have side effects. While generally safe, allergic reactions may occur, causing skin irritation, redness, and itching. Oral consumption is not recommended, as it can cause stomach upset, nausea, vomiting, liver problems, and, in extreme cases, kidney damage.