Witch Hazel

Americans learned how to use this extraordinary herb from the Indians who made a decoction (from the twigs) for swellings, inflammations, and tumors. Today millions of gallons of this extract are sold around the world. It is a good item to keep in the medicine chest as it will instantly reduce swelling from swollen or tired eyes, relieve the pain of sunburn and can be used as a shave lotion. It can be used in a douche to check excessive white discharges or menstrual flow. Use it as a face splash for oily skin and to control minor pimple formation.

Witch hazel will quickly reduce the pain from any insect bite and should be used cold, along with ice, to reduce the pain of sprains or athletic injuries. It is even used in some hospital recovery rooms to reduce swelling from intravenous feeding.