Witch hazel has had a few different names over the years, including golden treasure and pond’s extract. Interestingly, witch hazel was the first mass-marketed toiletry that was American-made, and to this day it’s one of the only medicinal plants approved by the FDA as a nonprescription drug treatment. You’ll find it in all major pharmacies, and the best part is, it’s extremely inexpensive. A 16-ounce bottle of witch hazel is only $3.64 at Walmart. In addition to decreasing inflammation and infection, research has found that witch hazel can also protect against sunburn3 and minimize skin aging 4by decreasing wrinkle formation and improving skin firmness. Because witch hazel can be used in so many different ways, the dosing can be very confusing. The best rule of thumb is to just follow the directions on the product you purchase since each one will be a little bit different. Topically, witch hazel water can be applied externally up to six times a day or, if you’re using it for hemorrhoids, after each bowel movement. For topical use, experts recommend witch hazel water undiluted or diluted with 1 part witch hazel water and 3 parts water. If you’re feeling adventurous and want to make your own witch hazel preparation, you can simmer 5 to 10 grams of leaf and bark per 250 mL of water. Witch hazel is one of those unicorn natural remedies, much like Epsom salts, that seem to be accepted by both sides of the aisle in what can sometimes be a contentious debate over the usefulness of natural remedies. The cherry on top is that it’s cheap and easily stored in your bathroom medicine cabinet should you ever need if for any of the issues mentioned above. I know I always keep mine on hand for minor cuts and burns, bug bites, and a pesky blemish.
