Hamamelis

Witch Hazel

Hamamelis virginiana

People who respond best to Hamamelis often feel a lack of appreciation and respect from others prior to illness, which tends to make them become depressed and solitary. When ill, they are prone to feelings of restlessness and irritability.

The remedy's primary use is in treating hemorrhoids and varicose veins. There is susceptibility to hemorrhaging, such as heavy periods in women or nosebleeds. Hamamelis may also be used for injuries to the eye.

Native Americans used witch hazel in poultices for tumors and inflammations. It is used as an herbal first-aid remedy for its astringent properties.

Fresh, chopped bark from the twigs and root is steeped in alcohol.

Uses

The chief use of Hamamelis (witch hazel) is to treat hemorrhoids and varicose veins where the veins are weak and inflamed, and venous bleeding that is slow to stop, such as in nosebleeds. It is good for chilblains associated with inflamed veins.
This remedy also alleviates: headaches that are better after nosebleeds; sore, bruising pain due to injury; painful, bloodshot, or black eyes; and coughs with blood-flecked phlegm.
Pain during ovulation or from heavy menstrual bleeding, with a bruised feeling in the abdomen and inflammation of the uterus or ovaries, is also eased by this remedy.
Hamamelis is useful in the treatment of depression, when the person wishes to be left alone, and feels restless and irritable, with grandiose ideas.