Witch Hazel — FarmPal

North America's premier astringent herb. The bark and leaves contain tannins that tighten tissues, reduce inflammation, and stop bleeding indispensable for first aid and skin care.

Scientific Name
Hamamelis virginiana
Growing Zones
Zones 3-8

Medicinal Properties

Astringent (tannin-rich)
Anti-inflammatory
Hemostatic (stops bleeding)
Antimicrobial
Vasoconstrictive

Parts Used

Bark
Leaves
Twigs

Traditional Uses

  • •Hemorrhoids
  • •Varicose veins
  • •Minor cuts and scrapes
  • •Insect bites and stings
  • •Acne and oily skin
  • •Postpartum perineal care

Preparations

Bark Decoction

Simmer 2 tablespoons bark in 2 cups water for 15-20 minutes. Strain.

Dosage: Apply topically as compress or wash for hemorrhoids, varicose veins, and skin conditions

Toner

Make bark decoction, strain, add 10% vodka as preservative. Bottle.

Dosage: Apply to face with cotton pad after washing for acne-prone or oily skin

Sitz Bath

Add 1 quart strong bark decoction to shallow warm bath.

Dosage: Soak 15-20 minutes for hemorrhoids or postpartum healing

Harvesting Guide

Timing: Harvest bark and twigs in fall or early spring. Leaves in summer.

Method: Prune small branches, strip bark. Harvest sustainably from your own trees.

Drying: Dry bark pieces at room temperature. Leaves on screens.

⚠️ Cautions

  • •External use only (tannins can irritate stomach)
  • •Commercial witch hazel water is mostly alcohol homemade is far superior
  • •Safe for external use during pregnancy and breastfeeding
  • •May cause dryness with excessive use on skin
Storage
Dried bark 2-3 years. Homemade witch hazel water (with preservative) 1 year.