Witch hazel (Amameli)
Hamamelis virginiana
Witch hazel
Amameli
Hamamélis
Hamamelis virginiana
Traditionally used
Venous insufficiency (heavy legs, varicose veins). Hemorrhoids. Minor skin inflammation, bruises, minor burns (topical). Eye irritation (diluted).
Prepared as
Leaves, bark
Chemistry
Tannins (hamamelitannin, gallic acid) — astringent, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, venotonic. Proanthocyanidins.
In three languages
Kreyòl — Ensifizans veinèz (janm lou, vars). Emowoyid. Iritatyon po, blé (topik). Amameli (hamamélis) disponib nan diaspora ayisyen pou emowoyid ak venn varikèz. Lwil oswa ekstrè pou aplikasyon topik sou janm lou ak emowoyid.
Français — Insuffisance veineuse (jambes lourdes, varices). Hémorroïdes. Inflammations cutanées légères, ecchymoses, brûlures légères (topique). Irritation oculaire (dilué). L'hamamélis est disponible dans la diaspora haïtienne pour les hémorroïdes et les varices; lotion ou extrait pour application topique sur les jambes lourdes et les hémorroïdes.
Safety
Safety notes for this plant are still being written. Until they are, treat it with a cautious hand.
Plants can look similar and be misidentified — always verify with a local herbalist or guide before use.
Kept alongside