Witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana) is a flowering shrub or small tree native to Eastern North America. Its leaf and bark are used as medicine.
Witch hazel contains chemicals called tannins, which might help reduce swelling and fight bacteria. Witch hazel water (Hamamelis water, distilled witch hazel extract) is a liquid that is distilled from dried leaves, bark, and twigs of witch hazel.
People use witch hazel for hemorrhoids. It is also used for eczema, acne, skin irritation, sunburn, and many other conditions, but there is no good evidence to support these uses.
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