Witch Hazel – Hamamelis virginiana – Leaves and Bark

Description

The leaves, twigs, and bark are used for their astringent, soothing, and hemostatic (the control bleeding) properties, attributes which make it useful for treating minor wounds, scratches, burning from hemorrhoids and insect bites. It tones the skin and closes the pores. Native Americans have long used the twigs and bark for a variety of ailments. The tea was taken to treat sore throat, diarrhea, colds, coughs, bruising and to prevent post-partum hemorrhage.