Witch hazel has marvelous properties and a long history of use as a medicinal home remedy. It isn't used only for acne, however - although it does work really well in treating it. If you're looking for a home remedy for acne, then witch hazel should be on the top of your list.
What is it?
Witch hazel is a shrub that grows naturally through most of the United States and many parts of Canada. Its medicinal uses were well known to native Americans. It was mainly used on sores, bruises and swelling. Because it has many useful properties, witch hazel can be found in many products, including shaving cream and hemorrhoid creams. It is possible to grow your own witch hazel shrub and prepare distillations and tisanes; however, there are many excellent and natural preparations available.
The essential oil of witch hazel is not sold as a consumer product, so don't look for it. What is sold under the label of "witch hazel" in your local drug store is most likely a distillate, and is often combined with alcohol, which acts as a preservative. Make sure you read the label if you are looking for an all-natural, gentle product. Do not purchase witch hazel that is for first aid use if you plan on using it for skin care. Many of the skin care products available over-the-counter do contain witch hazel. You'll find in many instances that witch hazel water is much cheaper and just as effective.
Treating acne with witch hazel
The astringent properties of witch hazel are what make it ideal as a home remedy for acne. It soothes and cools irritations, while tightening pores and soft tissues.
If you suddenly find yourself with a big pimple right before a big event, soak a cotton ball with witch hazel and apply every couple of hours. It will quickly calm the inflammation and reduce the size of the blemish.
You can also apply witch hazel daily, as you would any other over-the-counter toner product. Consistent use is intended to reduce the number of outbreaks; it will also shrink pores and tighten skin.
General use of witch hazel
If you're going to keep witch hazel water in the house, don't let yourself be limited to using it for acne! Witch hazel's properties are beneficial for a variety of home remedies.
- Use it on insect bites to reduce inflammation and irritation.
- Treat infant diaper rash by applying a cotton ball soaked in witch hazel water.
- Treat varicose veins by soaking wash cloths in witch hazel water, then apply to legs.
- Treat poison oak and poison ivy exposure.
- Heal bruises faster by dabbing on witch hazel three times a day.
- Many after-shave products contain witch hazel - skip the expensive product and just apply witch hazel directly.
- Heal and soothe cuts and bruises.
Once you discover all the wonderful things you can do with a bottle of relatively inexpensive witch hazel water, you'll wonder why it took you so long to discover this versatile beneficial herb!
This article is not meant to replace professional medical advice. Stop using this and any other home remedy if there are negative side effects. Consult a physician if the symptoms are not alleviated. Pregnant or nursing women should consult with a physician regarding the use of any herbal or other home remedy solution.
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