Herbs & Supplements

Hamamelis virginiana Scientific Name: Witch Hazel Other Names: Hamamelis, Hamamelis Water, Hazel Nut, Snapping Hazel, Snapping Tobacco Wood, Spotted Alder, Striped Alder, Tobacco Wood, Winter Bloom What side effects should I watch for? Although no reports of major side effects from witch hazel have been documented, other oral preparations that are high in tannin content have been associated with kidney or liver damage. The amounts of tannins in witch hazel products may vary and the amount possibly absorbed through the skin is unknown. Individuals with kidney or liver conditions should avoid using both oral and topical witch hazel products. In some isolated reports, drinking a large amount of tea made from witch hazel bark, leaves, or twigs has resulted in nausea and vomiting. It can also cause constipation. Oral use of witch hazel is not recommended. A few case reports describe a rare contact allergy from handling witch hazel plants, but no studies have been published to support these reports. << Back What interactions should I watch for? >>

Note: The above information is not intended to replace the advice of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It is not meant to indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you.

In general, herbal products are not subject to review or approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). They are not required to be standardized, meaning that the amounts of active ingredients or contaminants they contain may vary between brands or between different batches of the same brand. Not all of the risks, side effects, or interactions associated with the use of herbal products are known because few reliable studies of their use in humans have been done.

This information is provided for your education only. Please share this information with your healthcare provider and be sure that you talk to your doctor and pharmacist about all the prescription and non-prescription medicines you take before you begin to use any herbal product.