Witch Hazel
Written By Juniper (specialized writer in this section)
Witch Hazel (hamamelis virginiea) is also known as Snapping Hazelnut, Spotted Alder and Winterbloom. This herb is a masculine plant who falls under the Sun. It’s element is Fire. Witch Hazel is known magickally for it’s powers of protection and of chastity.
Witch Hazel gets it’s name from it’s common magickal use of it’s branches being made into divination rods. The bark and twig parts can be used for protection against evil. If carried, witch hazel is said to mend the broken heart and cool the passions.
Witch Hazel is a very common old American Indian rememdy used to treat varicose veins, bruises and as a compress to control bleeding. They also felt it promoted the healing of wounds.
It’s historical uses are probably due to the fact that witch hazel has astringent properties. The Witch Hazel you buy over the counter is distilled witch hazel water. Some herbalists use witch hazel to reduce eye inflammation. It is a common ingredient in eye drops, skin toners and creams.
Witch hazel can be grown in full sun to partial shade. The tree will usually grow 8-15 feet in height and is distinguishable by its scented yellow autumn flowers. This tree is very hardy to frost but must be grown in moist, humus-rich garden soil. To start, plant seeds outside in early autumn and keep the seeds moist.
AS always, consult your physian or pharmacist before taking any herbal medications.
References: Cunningham, Scott; The encyclopedia of Magical Herbs, pp 259-260.
Hutchison, Francis, Ed.; Encyclopedia of Herb Gardening, pg 219.
Mabey, Richard; The New Age Herbalist, pp 63, 142.