Witch Hazel: Uses, Benefits & DIY Home Remedies

People have used witch hazel for many purposes over the years. The astringent extract of the herb is a low-cost alternative to commercial remedies for such things as acne, hemorrhoids and canker sores.

Things You'll Need

• Witch hazel extract

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Instructions

• 1

  You can reduce what you pay for acne cleansers by simply soaking a cotton ball in witch hazel extract and rubbing it over your face one to two times a day. Its astringent effects will help relieve the swelling and inflammation caused by pimples.

• 2

  If you suffer from swollen and painful varicose veins on your legs, you may get temporary relief and reduction in swelling by soaking a wash cloth in witch hazel and laying it over the affected areas. This is not a permanent solution, but it does help for a little while.

• 3

  Applying witch hazel pads to hemorrhoids can help shrink their painful swelling.

• 4

  Canker sores can range in size from a pin head to a quarter and can be found in the mouth and throat. When a person suffers from them, it is very difficult to find relief and over-the-counter solutions can be costly. Take some witch hazel and mix it 50/50 with water. Gargle with it a couple of times a day. The witch hazel will help heal the canker sores and also reduce swelling and tenderness.