Hamamelis

Hamamelis virginiana – Hamamelis
Hamamelidaceae – Witch-hazel family

Parts used in medicine include the bark and leaves of hamamelis, harvested from plants growing within natural reach. Plants growing in Poland are not used in such manner.

Hamamelis – appearance and origin:

Hamamelis appears in a form of a bush or a small tree. Its unique trait are very intensely yellow flowers, blooming in late autumn or winter. Hamamelis originates from North America, where it was used by indigenous peoples. Currently, including Poland, there is hamamelis being grown mainly for decorative purposes.

Hamamelis – effects and application:

Hamamelis bark and leaf extract contains tannins, flavonoids, saponins, acids (gallic and ellagic) and leucoanthocyanidins. Their activity is multidirectional. Firstly, hamamelis has astringent properties (reducing bleeding, effusion and oozing of bodily fluids). Secondly, it seals blood vessels, lowers the fragility of capillaries and regulates subcutaneous circulation.

Hamamelis extract also has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, and it speeds up the healing process.

Recommended in small doses in cases of catarrhs, minor bleeding in the digestive system and lungs, and in the case of varicose veins, endoenteritis, diarrhea and dysentery.

Hamamelis is also used extermally: as a poultice, cream, gel, distillate – it speeds up the healing process, helps to reduce swelling, puffiness, insect bites, burns, prevents infections and eliminates negative effects of UV radiation. It is applied in treatment of hemorrhoids, rheumatic and muscle pains. Additionally, it is used topically for dermatitis and mucous membrane infections, varicose veins, leukorrhea, some eczemas, fungal skin infections, skin irritation after waxing and shaving, as a mouthwash and brushing gums. Battles Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria.

Thanks to its ability to seal blood vessels, hamamelis can be recommended to people with couperose-prone skin and also to anyone looking to boost their immune system. The sealing of blood vessels allows a whole range of immune processes, which are activated during a pathogen "invasion", to be more efficient. Better sealing results in better blood flow through vessels and a smaller risk of blood stasis and varicosity.

The anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial activity, supported by the astringent effect, allows hamamelis extracts to be used in relieving symptoms of adolescent acne. It contributes to the tightening of pores and consequently reduces their visibility. The inflammation within the eczema is also reduced, which also helps prevent the infection and speeds up the healing of the skin.

Thanks to its tannin and flavonoid content, hamamelis is used in balms and creams meant for skin firming, tonics and facial masks. It speeds up skin regeneration and revitalizes it. It stimulates granulation of the skin.