Hamamelis virginiana, native to North America, grows broadly from Nova Scotia to Florida, and westward from the Great Lakes to eastern Texas [3]. It typically inhabits deciduous forests, where it grows in partial shade and on moist soils [3]. Witch hazel is an old genus, with origins likely in eastern Asia [6]. The species alive today diversified much later, and their current Asia–North America split was formed by migration and extinction [6].
The North American variety belongs to the witch-hazel family (Hamamelidaceae). Its genus name, Hamamelis, comes from Latinized Greek, referring to a type of medlar or service tree, and its species name virginiana denotes its association with Virginia. Its common name “witch hazel” developed from the older words “wiche” or “wych,” meaning “to bend,” and “wicke,” meaning “lively.” These meanings derive from the plant’s characteristic forked branches, which were believed to twist when passing over underground water sources. In this way, witch hazel has long been associated with traditional uses and folklore. Dowsing with witch hazel became a common technique among early American settlers and was eventually reintroduced to Europe, where it continued to be practiced for well-finding into the twentieth century [3].
Witch hazel has had a long history of use in Indigenous communities, Western folk medicine, cosmetics, and more. Most of the uses of witch hazel come from the presence of astringent compounds in its bark, which can be turned into an extract. Witch hazel has been used to treat skin inflammation, rashes, and hemorrhages. It also has cosmetic uses, often occurring in anti-aging creams and in products for psoriasis and eczema, as well as in scalp products. Furthermore, witch hazel has been found to have antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. Additionally, it can help heal some skin wounds due to its ability to inhibit enzymes like elastase and collagenase, which can break down skin [1].
