Witch Hazel bark is a recognized herb, used widely for hemorrhoids treatment. There are several types of over-the-counter hemorrhoids remedies that contain witch hazel.
Also known as winter bloom, hamamelis, potted alder, or hamamelis water, it a herbaceous shrub that is native to Atlantic North America.
The bark has been used to heal ulcers of the skin, sores, and tumors. It is also considered highly effective in alleviating hemorrhoidal symptoms.
Read on to learn more about the connection between witch hazel and hemorrhoids, and find out how it works.
What Is Witch Hazel?
Witch hazel or Hamamelis virginiana has antiseptic properties. It is recommended for the treatment of external and internal hemorrhoids.
While witch hazel is an effective remedy for mild to moderate piles, it should be used cautiously. This is because it can cause irritation, itchiness and redness of the soft tissues of the anal canal.
Apart from its antiseptic property, witch hazel is also an astringent. Therefore, it shrinks hemorrhoids and stops any bleeding associated with the condition.
Studies have shown that it is the tannin content of witch hazel which causes the shrinking. The specific tannin responsible for the astringent property of witch hazel is hamelotannin which is synthesized in the plant from quercetin, hamelose, choline and gallic acid.
Witch Hazel Hemorrhoid Products
Apart from hemorrhoid products including the herb as one of its active ingredients, witch hazel solutions and tinctures are also commonly sold.
For external hemorrhoids, the liquid formulations can be applied using wipes. However, for internal hemorrhoids, the witch hazel tincture must be reformulated into a suppository.
By mixing one teaspoonful of witch hazel tincture with an equal measure of cocoa butter, the medication can then be formed into the shape of a suppository before freezing it. The frozen solid is then be inserted into the anus around the proximity of the hemorrhoid.
Liquid preparations of witch hazel are usually prepared with alcohol. The typical alcohol content of such solutions and tinctures is 14%.
Therefore, those whose skins are sensitive to alcohol should not use witch hazel liquid preparations. If they must, then they need to consult their doctors before starting on the hemorrhoid remedy.
How Does It Work?
Witch hazel is known to reduce the irritation and bleeding caused by painful anal fissures.
Witch Hazel is an astringent that comes from the leaves and bark of the hamamelis plant.
It is diluted and used as an ingredient in several plant based hemorrhoids remedies.
The herb also contains anti-inflammatory properties.
It is believed to be one of the most commonly used natural remedies to reduce skin inflammation.
It works by reducing the itching, swelling, and irritation caused by painful hemorrhoids.
It also helps in easing bowel movements.
Witch Hazel can be used as a liquid astringent to calm the inflamed skin.
You can also use witch hazel wipes instead of toilet paper to reduce the discomfort.
You can also consider taking hemorrhoids supplements that contain witch hazel as an active ingredient.
What Does It Contain?
Witch hazel bark has tannic, gallic acids, and proanthocyandins that have antiphlogistic actions.
It was used by Native Americans to reduce pain and swelling.
The witch hazel leaf and bark extracts are known to tighten and strengthen the painful varicose veins.
It also contains procyanadins, resin, and flavonoids that are known to have anti-inflammatory properties.
This helps in calming the tissues and easing out the swelling to facilitate easy bowel movements.
What Are The Side Effects?
Some studies have shown that drinking excess tea made of witch hazel bark and leaves may cause nausea, constipation, and vomiting.
Taking witch hazel orally is not prescribed as the high tannin content may cause kidney or liver damage.
You must stop taking the supplement and call your doctor if you notice symptoms of nausea, yellowing of eyes, exhaustion, vomiting, dark urine, stomach pain, and loss of appetite.
Are There Any Drug Interactions?
No drug interactions have been found.
How to Use?
You can use witch hazel wipes instead of toilet paper several times during the day to reduce the swelling and irritation.
Another effective method to heal hemorrhoids is to soak cotton balls in a witch hazel solution and apply it directly on the affected area. This will provide instant relief.
Some of the common witch hazel hemorrhoid products that you may consider using are Venapro, Hemroid Harry, and Hem-Relief.
You can also use the various witch hazel suppositories available to get relief from painful internal hemorrhoids.
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