Witch hazel is a topical astringent derived from the bark and leaves of Hamamelis virginiana, the common or North American witch-hazel shrub.  Native Americans have long recognized the medicinal properties of witch hazel and used a decoction of the boiled plant parts to treat skin irritations and tumors.

The benefits of Witch Hazel for medicinal use are primarily via its application as a natural and highly effective astringent. It contains an abundance of natural tannins that have the ability to shrink inflamed, swollen tissue and tighten pores. The beneficial effect of Witch Hazel on the skin even extends to facilitating the healing of scars.

Witch Hazel also contains gallic acid, which has anti-viral and anti-fungal properties. In addition, essential oils, natural resins and flavanoids contribute to Witch Hazel’s gentle but powerful antiseptic and broad spectrum antimicrobial properties."

Witch Hazel Extract comes with following benefits :

• Acne and blemishes: Witch Hazel helps shrink, dry up and clear blemishes by acting as a topical anti-inflammatory and antiseptic agent. 
• Hemorrhoids: Witch Hazel helps to shrink, soothe, and stop the bleeding of hemorrhoids, which are really just a form of varicose veins. Witch Hazel can be particularly soothing after vaginal childbirth when the pushing of the birth process can inflame rectal veins and cause swelling. 
• Diaper Rash: The gentle but rapid soothing action of Witch Hazel makes it perfect for reducing inflammation and discomfort from diaper use. 
• Eye puffiness: Witch Hazel is a common ingredient in homemade eye creams to reduce bags and puffiness in the eye area by shrinking the delicate tissue. 
• Poison Ivy: If you love to camp, be sure to always have a bottle of Witch Hazel packed with your gear as it is useful for reducing the painful rash, swelling or itching from poison ivy and poison oak. 
• Varicose Veins: Witch Hazel application to painful varicose veins can help get you back on your feet. Soaking a cloth in Witch Hazel and wrapping it around the infected leg is how it has been traditionally used for this purpose. 
• Bruises: A dab of Witch Hazel on bruises several times a day helps them heal faster. 
• Sunburn: The anti-inflammatory effects of Witch Hazel are particularly helpful for managing the effects of sunburn and minimizing peeling. 
• Underarm Odor: Witch Hazel is antimicrobial and is effective as an underarm deodorant particularly if someone is sensitive to baking soda. 
• Bug Bites: Applying Witch Hazel with a cotton ball to bug bites is very effective for reducing itching and swelling. It also encourages a faster healing time. 
• Dandruff: Gallic acid in Witch Hazel is an effective anti-fungal. Dandruff is a candida related condition, which is why topical application to the scalp works so well for controlling its flaky effects.