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Can you take witch hazel internally?
Most often applied to the skin and scalp, witch hazel is widely known for its ability to ease inflammation and soothe sensitive skin. It can also be added to herbal teas and ingested orally in small amounts as a natural treatment for other conditions.
What is witch hazel used for in medicine?
Witch hazel topical (for the skin) has been used in alternative medicine as a possibly effective aid in treating hemorrhoids, minor bleeding, and skin irritation. Witch hazel topical has also been used to treat eczema.
How do you use witch hazel?
Product instructions will vary, but for the most part, all you have to do is apply the witch hazel toner to a cotton ball or round, then dab the product across your clean, dry skin. Don’t use it to remove eye makeup (it’s too harsh), though witch hazel can help reduce fluid retention under the eyes.
Can you ingest witch hazel?
Witch hazel is POSSIBLY SAFE for most adults when small doses are taken by mouth. In some people, witch hazel might cause stomach upset when taken by mouth. Large doses might cause liver problems. Witch hazel contains a cancer-causing chemical (safrole), but in amounts that are too small to be of concern.
Does witch hazel clean your face?
One of the best uses for witch hazel is as a natural facial cleanser, especially when it comes to controlling excess oil. “Witch hazel is an astringent with anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties so it can effectively be used as a cleanser,” explains Engelman.
What is the benefit of witch hazel?
Possible benefits of witch hazel. When applied to the skin, witch hazel-based toners have the potential to ease irritation, injury, and inflammation. Some of the most common uses include acne, inflammatory conditions, and sunburn.
How often can you use witch hazel on your skin?
Therefore, it’s best to only use small amounts orally and to discuss any side effects or concerns with your doctor. Summary Witch hazel can be safely applied to your skin several times per day, and small amounts can be ingested orally with minimal risk of side effects. Witch hazel is an astringent that is often used as a natural topical remedy.
What are the risks of taking witch hazel by mouth?
Stomach upset may result from taking witch hazel by mouth. When you apply it to skin, it may, rarely, cause inflammation (contact dermatitis ). But even children tend to tolerate it well on the skin. Risks. If you use witch hazel in appropriate amounts, your risks are relatively minor.
Is it safe for pregnant women to use witch hazel?
Witch hazel is quite possibly safe for use by children when applied directly to the skin. Pregnant and breastfeeding mothers should stay on the safe side and avoid using witch hazel as there is not enough reliable information about the safety of taking it.
How is Witch Hazel used in traditional medicine?
Long used in traditional medicine, witch hazel is usually applied topically in order to treat certain skin conditions. 1 Witch hazel contains tannins, a type of natural compound with astringent effects. By acting as an astringent, witch hazel helps to constrict skin tissue.