Hamamelidaceae · leaf, bark
Witch hazel
Hamamelis virginiana
Mapped as a traditional topical astringent for minor skin and hemorrhoid-adjacent use.
Safety first
Distilled witch hazel is a topical astringent. Alcohol distillates sting and dry. Not for deep punctures, arterial ulcers, or the eye.
Tradition vs trials
Traditional record. North American and later USP-style distilled hamamelis water.
Trial literature. Modern RCTs are sparse. Traditional and monograph topical use dominate.
Practical ranges
Educational ranges — not a prescription. Culinary use is not an extract.
topical distillate
Apply to intact or minor-abraded skin as labeled — not a wound protocol
ESCOP / German Commission E — Educational range only — not a prescription. A licensed clinician individualizes product, dose, and duration.
Pregnancy, nursing, children
- Pregnancy. Topical distillate; do not ingest.
- Nursing. Avoid applying to the breast.
- Children. Intact skin only; not for infants' eyes.
Contraindications
- deep puncture or arterial ulcer
- eyes
Key interactions
- none specific internally · note
This catalog maps witch hazel as topical.
Used in these diagnoses
- Atopic dermatitis / eczemaSkin
- Mild acneSkin
- HemorrhoidsDigestive
- Chronic venous insufficiencyCardiovascular
- Insect bites / stings (local)Skin
- RosaceaSkin
- Seborrheic dermatitisSkin
- Anal fissure (supportive)Digestive
- Easy bruising (after workup)Cardiovascular
- Primary hyperhidrosisEndocrine / Metabolic
- Allergic contact dermatitisSkin
- Acute urticaria (adjunct)Skin
- Stasis dermatitisSkin