Witch hazel
| Scientific: | Hamamelis virginiana |
|---|---|
| Other: | Witch hazel |
Indications
Strong astringent.
Dermatologic (topical application)
• varicosities
- varicose veins
- hemorrhoids
- phlebitis
- venous insufficiency
• trauma
- sprains
- hematomas
- bruises
• dermatitis
- wheeping eczema
- contact dermatitis
Gastrointestinal
• over-relaxed or inflamed mucous membranes with bleeding:
- infectiod diarrhea (dysentery)
- inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
- apthous ulcers
- gastric ulcers
- prolapsed rectum (enema or suppository)
- rectal bleeding
- proctitis (topical application)
- hemorrhoids (topical application)
- anal fissures
Gynecological (douche)
• leukorrhea
• vaginal prolapse
• post-partum uterine bleeding
Actions
• astringent
• antiinflammatory
• antihemorrhagic
• styptic
Constituents
• Tannins
• Catechins
• Flavonoids
• Volatile oils
Posology
• Tincture (1:5 in 40% EtOH): 1-2 ml tid
• Decoction (dried herb): 1 tsp tid
Safety
Contraindications: External use over large areas of damaged skin (as tannins can be toxic when absorbed systemically).
Long-term use: Avoid use. Tannins may decrease absorption of nutrients, cause constipation, irritate the stomach, and cause liver disease.
High doses: Avoid use. Tannins may decrease absorption of nutrients, cause constipation, irritate the stomach, and cause liver disease.
References
Barnes J, Anderson LA, Phillipson JD. Herbal Medicines, 3rd ed. London: Pharmaceutical Press, 2007.
Bone K. Principles and Practice of Phytotherapy. Edinburgh: Churchill Livingstone, 2000.
Bone K. A Clinical Guide to Blending Liquid Herbs: Herbal Formulations for the Individual Patient. St Louis, MO: Churchill Livingstone, 2003.
Brinker F. The Toxicology of Botanical Medicines, 3rd ed. Sandy, Oregon: Eclectic Medical Publications, 2000.
Felter HW, Lloyd JU. King's American Dispensatory. 1898. http://www.ibiblio.org/herbmed/eclectic/kings/main.html. Accessed: August 19, 2006.
Hoffman D. Medical Herbalism. Rochester, Vermont: Healing Arts Press, 2003.
Weiss RF. Herbal Medicine. Beaconsfield, England: Beaconsfield Publishers Ltd, 1988.
Williamson EM, ed. Major Herbs of Ayurveda. Edinburgh: Churchill Livingstone, 2002
Disclaimer: This content is subject to change. The information is intended to inform and educate; it does not replace the medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional. www.healthydigestionclinic.com © 2015 NDAssist Inc. and/or its affiliates. All rights reserved.