Witch hazel for medicinal purposes

Witch hazel is a common tree grown in the U.S. Its leaves or roots are used for medicinal purposes. The common name arose as a result of the remarkable medicinal properties of the alcoholic extract from the leaves and bark of the plant, which is used on bruises and inflammations, and as a rubbing lotion.

USES
• Drink an infusion two or three times daily when there is inflammation (such as that of arthritis or rheumatism, sprains, or bruising) and for internal bleeding.
• Apply externally (as a decoction, tincture, or cream) for the treatment of bruising, hemorrhoids, or varicose veins.
• Use as a compress for sprains and strains.
• Dilute one part witch hazel to 20 parts boiled, cooled water, and use as an eye wash for sore and inflamed eyes.
• Add to the bath to reduce the aches and pains of rheumatic conditions.
• Witch hazel ointment can be used for painful joints, bruising (applied very gently), and local pain.

PROPERTIES
• Analgesic
• Antiseptic—witch hazel can be used as a facial wash, and diluted to wash cuts and grazes
• Helps to control diarrhea when taken internally, and can encourage the health of the digestive tract
• Witch hazel soothes swellings, and reduces infl ammation and bleeding, internally and externally
• Will encourage healing of bruises, sprains, and bleeding hemorrhoids