Mix 2 tbsp witch hazel, 5 drops of lemongrass essential oil and 1 cup of water in a spray bottle and shake to combine.
Use this spray as a powerful insect repellent. It is safe to use on most surfaces including your skin and will not leave any nasty, chemical residue. Be sure to test on a discreet area before spraying on fabric.
This same concoction works to reduce irritated bug bites and prevent itchiness on human skin. Plain witch hazel applied to the bite with a reusable cotton pad can also bring down inflammation from flea bites, mosquito bites, and bee stings.
9. Hemorrhoid Relief
Make your own “Tucks” cooling pads with witch hazel.
If you are experiencing discomfort from hemorrhoids or other rectal or vaginal issues, the tannins in witch hazel can decrease inflammation and soothe mucous membranes.
These cooling pads can provide instant relief and are totally safe for use on your more sensitive areas.
Dip reusable cotton pads into witch hazel, being sure to allow them to soak up the liquid. Place cotton pads in the freezer for about an hour and use as needed.
You can also add a ½ cup of witch hazel to a warm bath for similar relief.
10. Stop Bleeding and Disinfect Wounds
Witch hazel is a popular disinfectant and is not quite as painful as alcohol-based solutions. Witch hazel also has hemostatic properties meaning it can reduce minor bleeding.
Apply an alcohol free witch hazel to minor scrapes and cuts to help speed healing, staunch bleeding, and clean the wound of any foreign debris. It can also be used to reduce the appearance of bruises.
11. Scalp Irritation and Dryness
Using a shampoo with witch hazel can help to rebalance the scalp and combat dryness. One study of almost 1,400 people showed significant improvement in scalp irritation and itchiness after using a witch hazel based shampoo.
This Grandpa’s Witch Hazel Shampoo is a good option.
12. Soothe Razor Burn
Splash on witch hazel after shaving legs or face to soothe skin and prevent unsightly, itchy bumps and ingrown hairs from forming. It can also help staunch the bleeding from any nicks or scrapes.
13. Varicose Veins and Stretch Marks
Varicose veins or spider veins are streaky, enlarged veins that often protrude from the feet and legs with a purplish hue and can often be unsightly and embarrassing.
Stretch marks are usually on the stomach or thighs and can follow incidents of rapid weight gain or loss such as pregnancy.
Though more research is needed to solidify the effects, the German Commission E, which evaluates herbal medicines for effectiveness has listed witch hazel as an appropriate treatment for these skin conditions.
14. Dry Skin
Though it may seem counter-productive to use an astringent as a moisturizer, witch hazel can actually improve skin dryness over time and restore healthy oils by cleansing clogged pores.
Apply to affected areas when the skin is still damp after showering, give witch hazel a few minutes to dry, and follow up with a natural lotion to help lock in moisture.
15. Treat Swimmers Ear
Swimmers ear or otitus externa is an uncomfortable microbial infection of the ear that is usually caused by water remaining in the ear after swimming.
Witch hazel can help dry up any pus that is clogging the ear canal, clear away excess oil, and break up wax and debris.
Use a small eye dropper to deliver a few drops of witch hazel into each ear. After allowing ears to drain, clean carefully with a cotton swab. Be sure not to insert cotton swab directly into the car canal as this could cause further damage.
16. Cleaning Dogs Ears
Our floppy eared friends can quickly get a buildup of earwax, mites, and other nasty things on the inside of their ears.
Using a cotton pad soaked in witch hazel, clean gently around the ear flap.
17. Tick Removal
Getting ticks to unclench from human or animal skin can often seem like a daunting task.
Before simply digging in, however, try sprinkling the tick with a few drops of witch hazel. These irritating bugs hate the taste and will loosen their grip, giving you time to remove the tick and dispose of it appropriately.
Be sure to grasp the entire tick and pull firmly. Disinfect the area with witch hazel on a cotton pad following removal.
18. Glass Cleaner
Use undiluted witch hazel in a spray bottle to clean glass, chrome, and mirrors. Simply wipe away with a paper towel and enjoy sparkling, disinfected surfaces
How about it, are you ready to put witch hazel to work for you?
Where To Buy Witch Hazel
Remember, to experience the full benefits of witch hazel, it’s important to use a pure, undiluted and alcohol free brand. This bottle of Dickinson’s Witch Hazel fulfils all of the criteria and is our recommended product.
