There are several uses for witch hazel, a plant with potent qualities.
There are several varieties of witch hazel, but Hamamelis virginiana, a plant native to North America, is the most frequently employed in US folk medicine. Teas and ointments are prepared from the bark and leaves. They are bright yellow flowers that grow on a small tree which helps reduce swelling, calm irritated skin, and reduce allergic reactions.
Native Americans were the first to recognize this plant. Peer-reviewed studies have shown that witch hazel trees have invaluable service due to their properties and benefits.
Witch hazel is well recognized for its ability to calm sensitive skin and is often utilized on the skin and scalp.
Benefits Of Witch Hazel Oil
There are several uses for witch hazel, from natural cosmetic treatments to domestic cleaning solutions. Since ancient times, North Americans have gathered this naturally occurring substance from the witch hazel plant, using it for anything from enhancing skin health to warding off diseases and breaking on troublesome pests.
Lessens skin irritability
- An estimated 45% of Americans are thought to have sensitive skin characterized by aberrant sensory complaints.
- Topical witch hazel on exposed skin may soothe the skin.
Combats acne
- According to some studies, witch hazel may help cure acne because of its potent qualities.
- Use it straight to your face for the best efficiency after cleaning or steaming.
- It soothes your skin.
- Due to its benefits for those with oily skin, witch hazel is frequently included in many over-the-counter acne treatments.
- However, there have only been a few studies on witch hazel's effects on acne, and further investigation is required to determine its effectiveness.
- Applying witch hazel helps the skin, and many wellness professionals and healthcare providers recommend it as one of the treatment options
For sunburn
- Witch hazel is rich in polyphenols which may take care of sunburn skin.
Reduces the sensitivity of the scalp
- Before shampooing your hair, dab some witch hazel on your scalp to soothe the scalp and ease discomfort.
- Using such a shampoo incorporating witch hazel extract successfully minimizes scalp issues.
Controlling excess oil
- Witch hazel is a natural facial cleanser that helps balance excess oil from the skin by cleaning it deeply.
Reduce bug bites
- In addition to treating other skin responses, witch hazel can also relieve the itching, redness, and irritation brought on by insect bites. Be sure to carry witch hazel for your upcoming outdoor adventure or camping trip.
- Just bear in mind that you might want to try using witch hazel cream if you have sensitive skin. Additionally, keep an eye out for formulations without alcohol.
Eliminate makeup
- Witch hazel can assist in removing your makeup at the end of the day. To gently remove remnants of makeup and pollutants, saturate a cotton pad with Witch Hazel water with Rosewater and massage it over your face.
How To Use Witch Hazel Oil?
Although there is a little chance of side effects, witch hazel is generally safe to use.
Moreover, while taking 3-4 teaspoons (15-20 ml) of witch hazel daily is typically considered harmless, consuming high amounts may result in nausea and vomiting.
Witch hazel should be used in diluted form. It should be diluted with carrier oil like coconut oil, jojoba oil, argan oil, etc. This diluted mixture should be used for topical application.
*Note: It is recommended to conduct a patch test before applying witch hazel to see if there are any allergic reactions.
Uses Of Witch Hazel Essential Oil
Following is the list of different skin conditions and how witch hazel should be used to treat these skin issues:
For acne
Before opening up the pimple, apply a few drops of witch hazel oil directly on the skin. It can be used in diluted form with a carrier oil like coconut oil. For acne, witch hazel can also be mixed with other effective essential oils like tea tree oil.
For eye puffiness
Dilute witch hazel oil with any carrier oil and apply it under the eye carefully to avoid getting any oil in the eyes.
For cleaning hair
You can add several drops of witch hazel oil to your shampoo and use it to clean your hair and treat scalp issues, dandruff, and dry scalp. You can further experiment with your shampoo by adding other essential oils, argan oil, and coconut oil.
For mouth
You can add witch hazel to your toothpaste.
Possible Side Effects
- Witch hazel being a natural ingredient, rarely has any side effects.
- But this can be said for the application of witch hazel and not for its consumption.
- Some possible side effects that can be experienced after swallowing witch hazel are liver damage, nausea, and vomiting.
- It is recommended that people suffering from rosacea, in which redness and swollen bumps are caused on the skin, should avoid the use of witch hazel.
- People that have sensitive skin or dry skin should consult their doctors before using witch hazel to avoid any possible side effects.
- After using witch hazel topically, some people may have skin irritation or allergic responses.
Witch Hazel Essential Oil Dosage And Instructions
- Strictly adhere to the recommended doses, warnings, course of therapy, and mode of administration.
- It is recommended that you should use witch hazel only 4 to 5 times a day.
- Even though two essential oils have similar names, never substitute one for the other if you are unfamiliar with it.
- Always thoroughly wash your hands after handling an essential oil. Essential oils can be diffused.
- Never expose essential oils to high heat.
- Observe the usage directions.
- Keep an eye out for potential essential oil interactions if you are taking medication.
- Never completely rule out an allergic response, especially in susceptible or hypersensitive individuals.
- Some witch hazel products might contain alcohol which can cause skin irritation and dryness.
Precautionary Measures
Numerous essential oils are prohibited both during nursing and pregnancy, particularly during the first trimester. Similarly, some are not suggested for kids under the age of 7. Always see your family doctor before beginning any medical treatment or long-term illness if you have kidney or liver issues, epileptic disorders, heart pathologies, epilepsy or asthma sufferers, or any other listed conditions.
Summary
Witch hazel has been used to deal with different skin issues since ancient times. Witch hazel contains properties that can offer relief from some ailments. The use of witch hazel has provided comfort in bug bites, rashes, acne, skin irritation etc.
It should be kept in mind that witch hazel has been recommended as safe for topical application, and one should avoid swallowing it as it can cause possible side effects.
