Witch hazel is among the many roots historically used for medicinal purposes. Known as Hamamelis viginiana, witch hazel's other commonly used names, based on geography, are snapping hazel, winter bloom, spotted alder, tobacco wood and hamamelis water, according to Drugs Information On-line. When boiling or long-term soaking the Hamamelis in olive oil, witch hazel oil is created.

 Using the oil base as opposed to alcohol tends to be more effective, given the fast and long lasting absorption effect of the oil into the skin. As with any alternative medicine or practice, it is recommended that you consult with a certified health care professional prior to using witch hazel.

Things You'll Need

Cotton balls or Q-Tips

Bottle witch hazel

Cleanser

Towel

Difficulty : Moderately Easy

Instructions

1 - Wash your face with the cleanser of your choice, thoroughly rinse with cold water and apply witch hazel to a clean cotton ball and rub across the infected areas of your face. Following this regimen daily will tone and decrease the appearance of blemishes. It is recommended that you first consult a certified health care professional prior to using witch hazel.

2 - Pour witch hazel onto a Q-Tip or cotton ball and apply to open cut or abrasion to limit the burning sensation and other potential skin irritations.

3 - Pour a small amount of witch hazel onto a Q-Tip and apply to a hemorrhoid. The solution will relieve burning and itching to the affected area, causing a temporary cooling sensation.

4 - Wash your face with your choice of cleanser, apply witch hazel to a cotton ball and scrub your face to remove residue of makeup and oil; rinse your face thoroughly with cold water.

5 - Soak clean, white cloths in a bowl of witch hazel and apply it to to achy legs to ease the pain of varicose veins. Allow cloths to remain for approximately 15 to 20 minutes.. Applying this solution topically will cause temporary retraction of swollen and bulging veins.

Tips & Warnings

Witch hazel is commonly used as a skin toner or astringent. Doses of 1 g or more of witch hazel may result in nausea, vomiting and constipation. Witch hazel is not recommended for internal use or consumption. If accidentally consumed, notify poison control.

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