How to use witch hazel in ointment, extract or capsules

Witch hazel is a medicinal plant also known as alder-fly or winter flower, which has an anti-inflammatory, anti-hemorrhagic, slightly laxative and astringent action and can therefore be used as a home remedy to treat:

Superficial skin wounds, such as cuts and bruises; Hemorrhoids; Circulatory problems, such as varicose veins or poor circulation; Burns; Sore throat; Constipation.

The scientific name of this plant is Hamamelis virginiana and can be used in its natural form to prepare teas or in the form of ointment, extract or capsules, for example, depending on the problem to be treated.

Price and where to buy

The price of witch hazel, generally, varies between 20 and 30 reais, depending on its form of presentation and can be purchased at health food stores, drugstores and some open markets.

How to use

The parts with medicinal properties of witch hazel are its leaves and bark, which can be used in different forms:

Tea for circulation problems, diarrhea or sore throat: put 1 teaspoon of peels in a cup of boiling water, let stand for 10 minutes and strain. Take 2 to 3 cups a day; Ointment for hemorrhoids, skin wounds, bruises and burns: apply a thin layer of ointment to the affected region 3 times a day, making circular movements; Extract for varicose veins, burns and irritated skin: apply a thin layer on the affected area 2 to 3 times a day; Capsules for constipation, varicose veins and circulation problems: the recommended dose is usually 2 capsules after breakfast and 2 capsules after dinner, for 2 weeks.

Although it is a natural product, ideally witch hazel should only be used in the form of tea or capsules under the guidance of a health professional.

See also how to use the witch hazel plant to make a homemade hemorrhoid ointment.