Genus: Hamamelis
Common name: Hamamelis virginiana. Witch Hazel. Winterbloom. Snappy Hazelnut.
Family: Hamamelidaceae
Which? Wiche or witch? Native to eastern and central North America, this large deciduous shrub has leaves that turn golden yellow in the fall that are followed by fragrant golden yellow spider-like blossoms after the leaves drop. Its name was derived from the Middle English word wiche, which means “pliant” and refers to the shrub’s bendable branches which may have been used for water divining by early settlers. Native Americans boiled the leaves and bark to treat external inflammation, bleeding, and bruising. Due to its astringent, anti-inflammatory, and hemostatic properties, witch hazel extract is commonly used in ointments and salves to soothe sunburn, diaper rash, poison ivy rash, acne, and insect bites. It can be applied topically to reduce the pain and swelling of external hemorrhoids and to the perineum after childbirth.
When prepared homeopathically, the primary action of Hamamelis centers on circulation of the blood and the weakness of veins. This small remedy is especially useful for those who experience nosebleeds, varicose veins, and hemorrhoids, especially during menses or pregnancy. There may be prickling and stinging pain in the veins, muscles, and skin of the affected area.
Keynotes:
- Hemorrhages, bleeding hemorrhoids, nosebleeds
- Varicose veins, varicosities of the vulva, varicocele of the scrotum, esophageal varices
- Varices during pregnancy
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding between periods
- Black eye, bleeding in the eye
- Phlebitis, vein inflammation and congestion, thrombophlebitis
- Bruised soreness of affected area
- Bruising, purpura
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