Witch Hazel
Hamamelis virginiana
T Traditional useWitch hazel leaf is used on the skin for minor inflammation and dryness, for haemorrhoid itching and burning, and as a mouth gargle.
Image: Herbadex Botanik Stüdyosu · Özel Üretim
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At a glance
The EMA classes witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana) leaf as a traditional herbal medicine for minor skin inflammation and dryness, itching and burning from haemorrhoids, and minor inflammation inside the mouth. It is applied to the skin, used as a gargle or rectally (suppositories). Safety in pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been established.
Updated: October 15, 2026
✓ This herb record is backed by official European Medicines Agency (EMA HMPC) herbal monographs.
What is it used for?
T Traditional use
Traditional use: Based on at least 30 years of documented traditional use rather than clinical trials.
How do we rate evidence levels? →Traditionally used on the skin for minor inflammation and dryness. [1]
T Traditional use
Traditional use: Based on at least 30 years of documented traditional use rather than clinical trials.
How do we rate evidence levels? →Traditionally used to relieve itching and burning associated with haemorrhoids. [1]
T Traditional use
Traditional use: Based on at least 30 years of documented traditional use rather than clinical trials.
How do we rate evidence levels? →Traditionally used as a gargle for minor inflammation inside the mouth. [1]
How is it used?
Safety & interactions
⚠ External use only
Minimum age: 6 years
- Skin use not recommended under 6, gargling under 12, haemorrhoid use under 18.
- See a doctor if you notice rectal bleeding.
- Safety in pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been established; ask a doctor first.
- If symptoms worsen or do not improve within the stated time, see a doctor or pharmacist.
Drug interactions
No recorded interactions
Side effects
- Allergic contact dermatitis (frequency unknown)
⚕ When to see a doctor
- If high fever, shortness of breath or purulent/bloody phlegm develops
- If symptoms do not improve within 1–2 weeks or worsen
- If severe abdominal pain, jaundice, rash or allergic reaction occurs
Did you know?
Witch hazel is one of the few herbs used three ways: on skin, as a gargle and for haemorrhoids. [1]
Frequently asked questions
Does witch hazel help haemorrhoids?
The EMA accepts witch hazel as a traditional remedy for haemorrhoid itching and burning. See a doctor for rectal bleeding.
Can witch hazel be used on the face?
5–10% preparations can be applied for minor inflammation and dryness.
Can witch hazel be swallowed?
The assessment covers skin, gargle and rectal use, not drinking it.
Can children use it?
Skin use from age 6; gargling not under 12; haemorrhoid use not under 18.
Sources
Cite This Page
Witch Hazel (Hamamelis virginiana). Herbadex — Doğal Şifa Rehberi (2026). https://herbadex.com/en/herb/witch-hazel/
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