This botanical profile is part of the Star Naturals Herbal Library.
Witch Hazel
Hamamelis virginiana
Historical / Folk Use
Witch hazel has long been used in North American herbal traditions, where extracts from the leaves, bark, and twigs were prepared as botanical distillates and topical washes. These preparations became widely incorporated into household apothecaries and skin-care formulations. Witch hazel gained recognition for its refreshing botanical character and its role in traditional cleansing and skin preparations.
Energetics
Traditionally described as:
• Cooling and clarifying
• Lightly astringent
• Tightening and toning
• Balancing and protective
• Refreshing and clean
• Drying to excess oil
• Protective and light
How Star Naturals
uses this botanical
Witch hazel appears in our botanical face wash and outdoor spray where fresh, plant-based clarity is desired. Its light botanical character complements the other ingredients in the formulations, contributing a clean and balanced feel.
Found in these Star Naturals formulations:
Research & Resources
The research summaries below highlight findings from scientific studies on compounds found in this botanical.
They are provided for educational purposes and do not represent claims about the effects of Star Naturals products.
Study 1:
A controlled human study evaluated topical witch hazel distillate on irritated skin. The research observed associations with reduced visible redness and improved skin comfort following application.
Study 2:
In a laboratory study using human skin cells, a bark extract of witch hazel was evaluated against inflammatory signaling related to acne triggers. The research observed that the extract was associated with reductions in inflammatory mediator release under these cell culture conditions.
Study 3:
A laboratory study examined witch hazel extracts in human skin cell cultures for antioxidant activity. The research observed that extracts containing witch hazel compounds were associated with antioxidant effects in these cells.
Study 4:
Historical and ethnobotanical sources describe witch hazel extracts used on skin irritations, including reactions to insect bites.