Witch Hazel Bark

Latin Name
Hamamelis virginiana

Herb Class/Action
• Astringent
• Anti-inflammatory
• Hemostatic
• Antioxidant
• Venous tonic

Parts Used
Bark and twigs (fresh or dried)

Flavors
Astringent, slightly bitter

Energetics
Cooling, drying, constricting

Traditional Benefits
Witch hazel bark has long been used in Native American and traditional Western herbalism as a powerful topical remedy for wounds, swelling, and skin irritation. Its high tannin content makes it one of nature’s best astringents—tightening tissues, stopping bleeding, and reducing inflammation, especially for hemorrhoids, varicose veins, and bruises.

A Natural Allergy Ally
Witch hazel bark soothes inflamed, irritated skin affected by allergic reactions. It calms itching, swelling, and redness from hives, eczema, and bug bites, and supports faster skin recovery.

A Herb for Seasonal Support
Especially helpful in hot, humid seasons or allergy-heavy months, witch hazel cools overheated skin, calms rashes, and supports healthy vein tone when circulation is sluggish due to heat or inflammation.

How It Works
Witch hazel bark is rich in tannins, flavonoids, and volatile oils that constrict blood vessels, tighten tissues, and reduce fluid buildup. These compounds calm inflammation, stop minor bleeding, and support the tone of skin and vascular tissue—making it ideal for swelling, bruising, and venous insufficiency.

Best Ways to Use It
Tinctures/Extracts: Commonly used as a distilled extract or alcohol-based tincture for topical application.
Herbal teas: Occasionally decocted for compresses or sitz baths—not typically consumed internally.
Topical applications: Apply as a witch hazel distillate, poultice, or infused oil for hemorrhoids, bruises, acne, insect bites, and puffy skin.

Fun Fact
Witch hazel distillate is still widely used in commercial aftershaves, toners, and skin cleansers for its natural astringent and soothing effects.

A Herb for Modern Use
Witch hazel bark is a go-to remedy for inflamed, swollen, or irritated skin. From post-shave care to puffy eyes and minor bleeding, this ancient bark offers fast, effective relief with time-tested power.