--- title: "Witch Hazel: Benefits, Uses & Side Effects | Herbadex" description: "Witch hazel leaf is used on the skin for minor inflammation and dryness, for haemorrhoid itching and burning, and as a mouth gargle." language: en url: https://herbadex.com/en/herb/witch-hazel/ source: Herbadex (https://herbadex.com) --- [Clay, Soap & Other](https://herbadex.com/en/form/other/) # Witch Hazel Hamamelis virginiana T Traditional use Witch hazel leaf is used on the skin for minor inflammation and dryness, for haemorrhoid itching and burning, and as a mouth gargle. [Digestion](https://herbadex.com/en/for/digestion/) [Skin & Hair](https://herbadex.com/en/for/skin-hair/) [Respiratory, Throat & Mouth](https://herbadex.com/en/for/respiratory/) Image: Herbadex Botanik Stüdyosu · Özel Üretim Pregnancy **Unknown** Breastfeeding **Unknown** Children **Caution** Drug interactions **No recorded interactions** ## 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. **Parts used:** leaves **Key constituents:** Hamamelitannin & Tannins 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 Traditionally used on the skin for minor inflammation and dryness. \[1\] - T Traditional use Traditionally used to relieve itching and burning associated with haemorrhoids. \[1\] - T Traditional use Traditionally used as a gargle for minor inflammation inside the mouth. \[1\] ## How is it used? ### Topical Apply a cream or lotion containing 5–10% witch hazel tincture or liquid extract. **Amount:** Several times daily \[1\] ### Topical For haemorrhoids, boil 5–10 g of chopped leaf in 250 ml of water and apply as a compress. **Amount:** Up to 3 times daily \[1\] ## 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. \[1\] ### 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 1. [Community herbal monograph on Hamamelis virginiana L., folium](https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/documents/herbal-monograph/final-community-herbal-monograph-hamamelis-virginiana-l-folium_en.pdf) EMA HMPC · 2009 ### Cite This Page Witch Hazel (Hamamelis virginiana). Herbadex — Doğal Şifa Rehberi (2026). https://herbadex.com/en/herb/witch-hazel/ ## Related guides and comparisons - [How to Prepare Herbal Tea](https://herbadex.com/en/guide/how-to-prepare-herbal-tea/) - [How to Use Essential Oils Safely](https://herbadex.com/en/guide/essential-oil-safety/) - [Herbal Products and Drug Interactions](https://herbadex.com/en/guide/herb-drug-interactions/) ## On this page At a glance What is it used for? How is it used? Safety & interactions Did you know? Frequently asked questions Sources Related herbs ## Related herbs ### [Chamomile](https://herbadex.com/en/herb/chamomile/) T Traditional use Matricaria recutita A gentle herbal tea traditionally used for bloating and mild stomach cramps, common cold symptoms and mouth or throat irritation. 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