Stacy Wiegman, PharmD. When used on the skin, the side effects of witch hazel are dry or irritated skin. When used internally, side effects of witch hazel include upset stomach, vomiting, nausea, and constipation.
There is a small risk of an allergic reaction when using witch hazel orally or on the skin including rash, hives, itching, swelling, wheezing, or difficulty with breathing or swallowing. Taking large doses of witch hazel internally can result in a toxic reaction, including possible liver damage. Varicose veins are dilated veins in the legs that can cause significant discomfort. Some people also find their appearance bothersome.
An older review from argues that while many people use witch hazel to treat varicose veins, more research is needed to determine whether it is effective. Some people recommend soaking cloths in witch hazel and applying these to the legs to gain relief from varicose veins.
Witch hazel may reduce the appearance of dandruff. While there is no research to support its use for this purpose, one small study found that a shampoo containing witch hazel was effective in reducing irritation and sensitivity of the scalp.
One of the researchers involved with the study had links to the shampoo manufacturers, however. For this reason, more independent studies are needed to prove that witch hazel works for this purpose. Similarly to sunburn , bug bites and stings can cause swelling and inflammation. Applying witch hazel to the bite may reduce itching and discomfort. It may be especially soothing if a person mixes witch hazel with aloe vera, which is another plant and anti-inflammatory agent. Some people apply witch hazel to pregnancy stretch marks in an effort to lighten them and make them less noticeable.
However, there is no research to support this use. The astringent properties of witch hazel cause the skin to tighten and small blood vessels to constrict, which may help stop bleeding from minor cuts or nosebleeds. Some people may have an allergic reaction to witch hazel, so it is best to test it first on a small patch of skin and monitor it for 24 hours. If there is no redness, itching, or irritation, it should be safe to apply to a larger area.
Witch hazel can be a great addition to an at-home medicine cabinet and is usually well-tolerated. It is safe for most people to use for certain skin conditions, even if the research has not yet proven its effectiveness scientifically. However, using home remedies such as witch hazel cannot replace advice from a doctor or other healthcare provider.
If using witch hazel as a remedy does not work or the condition gets worse, it is vital that people consult their doctor for further advice. Witch hazel is available in some pharmacies, health food stores, and online.
Many home remedies can help people reduce their acne by treating oily skin, killing bacteria, and providing antioxidants. Because of its anti-inflammatory properties, witch hazel may help ease the most classic psoriasis symptoms, which are:. Although many topical medications prescribed for people with psoriasis may perform these same functions, witch hazel is completely drug-free.
Some organic varieties may contain alcohol, which can dry skin and make symptoms worse. You should look for varieties that contain benzoic acid in place of alcohol. This preservative is less irritating than standard alcohol. It may be better suited for people with psoriasis and other skin conditions.
Generally, people can use witch hazel topically without experiencing any side effects. If you have sensitive skin or spend a lot of time in the sun, you may develop some irritation. Do a patch test before you apply witch hazel to a large portion of your body. To do this, apply a small amount to a quarter-sized area of your skin. If you experience any side effects within 24 hours of applying, witch hazel may not be the best treatment for you.
In rare instances, some people may have an allergic reaction to witch hazel. Symptoms of this reaction can include:. If you encounter any of these symptoms after using witch hazel, discontinue use and contact your doctor immediately. More research needs to be done to determine whether witch hazel has any damaging effects on women in these groups. Ingesting witch hazel may lead to gastrointestinal problems, such as indigestion and constipation.
Repeatedly ingesting large amounts of witch hazel can also lead to kidney and liver damage. Some people find that combining it with glycerin produces the best results. Store them in a spray bottle so you can easily spritz the affected area.
You should massage the area until the astringent is fully absorbed. From there, you can rinse the astringent out and style your hair as you normally would. Remember: Always ask your doctor before you try anything new on your skin.
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