Despite the spooky name, this tree has nothing to do with witches! The name comes from an Old English word meaning “pliant” because the flexible branches made good bows for archers.
Witch hazel is native to most of North America — the only place the tree is hard to come by is in the far west. It tends to grow in moist areas and prefers light woods and rocky streams. The tree prefers partial shade and sandy or peaty soil.
Native Americans made a tea from the leaves and bark of the witch hazel tree. The tea was used to treat ulcers, hemorrhoids, and throat irritations. A witch hazel steam bath was used to relieve cold, fever, coughing, and congestion. Witch hazel compresses were used to treat headaches, inflammation, skin irritation, insect stings, burns, arthritis, and sprains.
Modern science isn’t so sure that witch hazel is a miracle cure. It does contain tannic acid, which is an astringent. Witch hazel is mostly seen in cosmetics — you’ll find it in lotion, aftershave, and more. The liquid extract may also relieve the sting of sunburn or the itch of insect bites. The tannin in witch hazel may also be useful in treating hemorrhoids.
Not sure if you have witch hazel on your hands? These small trees have twisting trunks and long, forking branches. The bark is smooth and has a grayish brown color. The leaves are elliptical with rounded or heart-shaped bases. Look for coarsely toothed leaves with a hairy underside. Witch hazel varieties bloom in cooler months. Hamamelis virginiana blooms from September through November; Hamamelis vernalis blooms in January and February.
Remember — lots of plants that are safe or beneficial can look like plants that are unsafe. Make sure you really know for sure before you try using any plant in your herbal remedies. Invest in a plant guide or ask an expert.