Witch HazelWitch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana) is a deciduous shrub also called tobacco wood. Many tribes including the Cherokee and Iroquois have used a tea made from the leaves or bark to treat coughs, colds, fevers and sore throats. Because witch hazel is an astringent, it is also effective at treating diarrhea. This herb also has been used as an anti-bacterial, anti inflammatory, haemostatic (control bleeding), synoptic sedative and tonic.
Topically, witch hazel is widely used to treat skin irritations, bites and stings, cuts, and bruises and is an ingredient in many over the counter topical medicines.
To make tea, place one spoon of witch hazel bark or leaves in a pan; cover with one cup of water; bring to a boil; boil for ten to fifteen minutes; cover; cool and strain. Take up to one cup a day, a tablespoon at a time.
Witch hazel is used to relieve sugar diabetes. It will not cure it, but it will relieve the symptoms. The patients will not have to take pills or shots. A glass a day of the tea made with witch hazel for a month will put a person back to normal. After that, he or she may need to take another glass once a month or so.
Witch Hazel
