Hamamelis, also known as witch hazel or witch hazel, is a plant that is valued for its versatile applications and its positive effect on skin and health care. This winter-flowering plant bears its yellow flowers with thread-like petals in December and January. The shrub or tree only sprouts its leaves in spring.
The active ingredients are obtained by extracting the leaves, bark and twigs and serve as a valuable source of witch hazel extracts, hydrolates and essential oils. In this way, their beneficial properties can be harnessed for human use.
In the following, we will give you an insight into the fascinating world of witch hazel with its numerous benefits and areas of application.
Table of contents
1 What is witch hazel?
Witch hazel is a fascinating plant with a long history and a wide range of uses. Originally, witch hazel comes from North America, where it is native to the forests of the eastern United States. The best-known species is witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana), which is valued for its medicinal properties.
The plant grows as a shrub or small tree and is characterized by its striking yellow flowers, which bloom in late autumn and winter. This unusual flowering time has earned the witch hazel the name Witch Hazel.
The plant has long been known for its healing properties and was used by Native Americans in various medicinal applications. Today, witch hazel is valued in skin and hair care as well as in alternative medicine. The most important ingredients of witch hazel include tannins. These have an anti-inflammatory, hemostatic, astringent and soothing effect on wounds and mucous membranes.
2. antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effect of witch hazel
Witch hazel is rich in antioxidants that help fight free radicals and reduce cell damage. These antioxidant properties help to slow down the ageing process of the skin and reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. For this reason, witch hazel is a popular ingredient in natural anti-ageing products.
In addition, witch hazel has an anti-inflammatory effect, which is beneficial in the treatment of skin irritations, acne and other inflammatory skin conditions. The astringent (tightening) effect can refine enlarged pores and make the skin look smoother.
The tannins it contains soothe the skin in the anal area with burning, itching or weeping hemorrhoids or irritated mucous membranes.
Witch hazel can also bring relief to irritated skin with neurodermatitis, sunburn or insect bites.
3. witch hazel for skin care
Witch hazel water, also known as witch hazel water, is a high-quality hydrolate obtained by distilling the witch hazel plant. It has many benefits for skin care and offers a variety of applications.
One of the main benefits of witch hazel water is its astringent (tightening) effect. It helps to shrink pores and remove excess oil, which is particularly beneficial for oily and acne-prone skin. The hydrosol also has anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe skin irritation, redness and inflammation.
In addition, witch hazel water has a calming effect and can help heal skin injuries, cuts and insect bites. It is a gentle and natural product that is suitable for all skin types and is a good alternative to aggressive chemical products. The witch hazel hydrolate from Casida can be used as a toner, toner or as an ingredient in homemade skincare products to clarify, soothe and nourish the skin.
4. witch hazel for cuts and skin injuries
Due to its antiseptic properties, witch hazel can also help heal cuts, abrasions and other skin injuries. It cleanses the wound, has an anti-inflammatory effect and promotes faster healing. Applying witch hazel to affected areas can prevent infection and aid recovery.
5. witch hazel for hair and scalp
Witch hazel not only offers benefits for skin care, but also for hair care. The effect of witch hazel on the hair is multifaceted. One of the main benefits is the regulation of sebum production on the scalp. Witch hazel can help to remove excess oil and balance the scalp, which is particularly beneficial for oily hair.
Due to the anti-inflammatory effect of witch hazel, the plant hydrolate soothes the scalp, which can help with itching, dandruff and other scalp irritations. Regular use of witch hazel water can also improve blood circulation to the scalp and promote hair growth. Witch hazel hydrosol can be used as a natural conditioner to strengthen hair, add shine and protect it from damage. It can also be used in homemade hair care products such as shampoos, hair lotions or conditioners to reap the benefits of witch hazel for the hair. Overall, using witch hazel is a natural and gentle option for hair care that leaves hair looking healthy, strong and radiant.
6. conclusion of the Casida pharmacists
Witch hazel, also known as witch hazel, is a fascinating plant with a wide range of applications. Discover the beneficial effects of witch hazel and incorporate it into your daily skincare routine for healthy, radiant skin and well-groomed hair.
Note: The use of witch hazel can cause allergic reactions in some people. We therefore recommend testing the product on specific areas of the skin before using it holistically and contacting your doctor if you experience any irritation.
