The properties and benefits of Witch Hazel
Write the 08/03/2024 by Santarome Bio
Witch hazel is a shrub with multiple properties recognized for centuries. Its leaves and bark are rich in tannins, substances with astringent and anti-inflammatory properties.
Witch hazel is particularly appreciated for its benefits on blood circulation . It tones the veins and capillaries, improves microcirculation and reduces the feeling of heavy legs.
History of Witch Hazel
Witch hazel is a shrub native to North America and Asia. It has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties. Native Americans used witch hazel to treat wounds, inflammations and hemorrhages.
In the 18th century, witch hazel was introduced to Europe, where it was quickly adopted by doctors and herbalists. It was used to treat a variety of ailments, including varicose veins, bruises, sunburns and insect bites.
Today, witch hazel is still widely used for its astringent, anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. It is found in different forms, including lotion, cream, gel and compress.
Witch hazel is generally well tolerated, but it is important to use it with caution if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Ask a doctor for advice.
Composition and main active compounds of Witch Hazel
Also known as witch hazel, witch hazel is distinguished by its oval leaves and ribbon-shaped flowers that bloom in fall. The main active compounds in witch hazel are tannins. They give witch hazel its astringent, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. In addition to tannins, witch hazel contains flavonoids which contribute to its beneficial effects on blood circulation and the skin.
These compounds make witch hazel a popular ingredient in many cosmetic and medicinal products, particularly for treating skin conditions such as irritation, sunburn, and hemorrhoids.
Benefits of Witch Hazel on the body
Witch hazel is known for its soothing and anti-inflammatory effects on the skin, helping to relieve skin irritations such as redness and itching.
Venous tonic
Witch hazel is rich in tannins, which give it astringent and vasoconstrictor properties. This means it can help tone veins and improve blood circulation. By stimulating circulation, witch hazel may help reduce symptoms of venous insufficiency, such as:
Heavy legs: Accumulation of blood in the legs can cause a feeling of heaviness and fatigue. Witch hazel can help improve blood circulation and reduce feelings of heaviness.
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Varicose veins: varicose veins are dilated and tortuous veins. Witch hazel can help tone veins and reduce the appearance of varicose veins.
Hemorrhoids: Hemorrhoids are enlarged veins in the rectum or anus. Witch hazel can help relieve symptoms of hemorrhoids, such as pain, irritation, and itching.
Soothing
Witch hazel also has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties. This means it can help reduce inflammation and relieve skin irritation. Witch hazel can be used to relieve:
Sunburn: Witch hazel can help soothe pain and inflammation caused by sunburn.
Insect bites: Witch hazel can help relieve itching and inflammation caused by insect bites.
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Bruising: Witch hazel can help reduce swelling and pain caused by bruising.
Skin Irritations: Witch hazel may help relieve skin irritations caused by eczema, psoriasis, or other skin conditions.
Astringent
Witch hazel is a natural astringent. This means it can help tighten pores and tone the skin. Witch hazel can be used for:
Reduce acne: Witch hazel can help kill acne-causing bacteria and reduce inflammation.
Tighten large pores: Witch hazel can help tighten large pores and improve the appearance of the skin.
Tone the skin: Witch hazel can help tone the skin and give it a firmer appearance.
How to consume Witch Hazel?
Witch hazel comes in several forms, each with its own benefits.
Food supplements based on witch hazel are a practical and effective solution to benefit from its benefits. They are usually available in capsules, capsules or ampoules.
Organic Light Legs - 20 ampoules of Santarome is a food supplement which contains organic witch hazel combined with other plants such as red vine and hawthorn. It is ideal for relieving heavy legs.
Witch hazel can also be consumed as an infusion, herbal tea or decoction. To do this, simply infuse 1 teaspoon of dried witch hazel leaves in 250 ml of hot water for 10 minutes. This preparation can be drunk 2 to 3 times a day.
Witch hazel is also found in the form of mother tincture, capsules, lotions and creams.
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The mother tincture is a concentrated witch hazel extract that can be taken orally or applied topically.
Capsules are a practical alternative to infusions and herbal teas.
Lotions and creams are used to relieve skin inflammation, sunburn and insect bites.
Witch hazel is generally well tolerated. However, it is important to respect the indicated dosages and not to use it in case of allergy to the plant.
