Witch-hazel, Organic

Product Details

Premium Witch-hazel Distillate (Hydrosol), Organically Grown, alcohol free

Botanical name :   Hamamelis virginiana

Extraction method / Source :   Steam distillation /  leaves and bark

Key constituents:  calcium oaxalate, gallotannins, safrole, carvacrol, eugenol  

Plant description :   Family :  Hamamelidaceae     Witch hazels are deciduous shrubs which grow 10 - 25 feet tall.  They produce broad green leaves, and in the Fall, yellow, orange or red flowers with narrow petals.  The flowers occur on the plant simultaneously with the fruits from the previous year, rendering the genus name, Hamamelis, meaning "together with fruit".  They are popular ornamental shrubs, as the brightly colored flowers remain through the winter.

Regions of Production :  USA

Growing Practices : Organically farmed.  Plants are tested after harvest for purity.

Characteristics :   Astringent, cooling

History / Fun Facts :  Contrary to popular belief, the word witch-hazel is not related to the word witch (a person practicing magic), which is thought to have come from the Old English wicce, meaning "wise".  It actually comes from the Middle English word wiche, meaning "bendable" or pliable", as in willow-witch.

Uses

Uses :  Witch-hazel is used in the cosmetics industry as a natural skin toner.  Due to its astringent and cooling properties, it is also used as a topical remedy for hemorrhoids or to decrease bleeding and soothe labial irritation after childbirth.  

Safety

Safety :  For external use only.

Notice :  This information is for educational purposes only.  It has not been evaluated by the US Food and Drug Administration. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any condition or disease and should not take the place of evaluation by a qualified health professional. Although we strive to provide information which is accurate and up to date, we cannot guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information.

References

References :

Battaglia, Salvatore, The Complete Guide to Aromatherapy, Second Edition, 2003. The International Centre of Holistic Aromatherapy, Brisbane, Australia

Cooksley, Valerie Gennari, Aromatherapy: Soothing Remedies to Restore, Rejuvenate, and Heal, 2002. Prentice Hall Press, New York, NY.

Cooksley, Valerie Gennari, Aromatherapy : A Holistic Guide to Natural Healing with Essential Oils, 2015.  Floramed Publishing, The Woodlands, TX.

Falconi, Dina, Earthly Bodies and Heavenly Hair : Natural and Healthy Personal Care for Every Body, 1998.  Ceres Press, Woodstock, NY.

Hampton, Aubrey, Natural and Organic Hair and Skin Care, 1987. Organica Press, Tampa, FL.

Tourles, Stephanie L., Hands On Healing Remedies, 2012. Storey Publishing, North Adams, MA.

Wildwood, Chrissie, The Encyclopedia of Aromatherapy, 1996. Healing Arts Press, Rochester, VT.

Worwood, Valerie Ann, The Complete Book of Essential Oils & Aromatherapy, 1991.  New World Library, Novato, California