Hamamelis virginiana Witch hazel (Hamamelidaceae) Deciduous shrub

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Hamamelis virginiana
Witch hazel
Deciduous shrub
(1 Page of 5)

The Hamamelis virginiana plant species is found in Eastern N. America - Nova Scotia to Wisconsin and south to Texas and N. Florida. It is a member of the Hamamelidaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Witch hazel.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Hamamelis virginiana
Common Name:  Witch hazel
Family:  Hamamelidaceae
Author:  L.

Known Hazards:  None known

Mature Height:  5   Mature Width:  5

Habitat:  Edges of dry or moist woods, in rich soil and on the rocky banks of streams[43, 82]. The best specimens are found in deep rich soils[229].

Medicinal Information: Witch hazel bark is a traditional herb of the North American Indians who used it to heal wounds, treat tumors, eye problems etc[254]. A very astringent herb, it is commonly used in the West and is widely available from both herbalists and chemists[222]. It is an important ingredient of proprietary eye drops, skin creams, ointments and skin tonics[238]. It is widely used as an external application to bruises, sore muscles, varicose veins, haemorrhoids, sore nipples, inflammations etc[238]. The bark is astringent, haemostatic, sedative and tonic[4, 14, 21, 165, 171, 222]. Tannins in the bark are believed to be responsible for its astringent and haemostatic properties[222]. Bottled witch hazel water is a steam distillate that does not contain the tannins from the shrub[222], this is less effective in its action than a tincture[238]. The bark is used internally in the treatment of diarrhoea, colitis, dysentery, haemorrhoids, vaginal discharge, excessive menstruation, internal bleeding and prolapsed organs[238]. Branches and twigs are harvested for the bark in the spring[238]. An infusion of the leaves is used to reduce inflammations, treat piles, internal haemmorrhages and eye inflammations[213]. The leaves are harvested in the summer and can be dried for later use[238]. A homeopathic remedy is made from fresh bark[232]. It is used in the treatment of nosebleeds, piles and varicose veins[232].

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Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'.
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