Generic Name: witch hazel
Brand and Other Names: Hamamelis virginiana, Tucks Medicated Pads
Drug Class: Herbals
What is witch hazel, and what is it used for?
Witch hazel, or Hamamelis virginiana, is a tree native to North America. Indigenous Americans have used witch hazel for various conditions including hemorrhoids, sore muscles, insect bites, cuts, rashes, sunburn, and bruises.
Witch hazel extracts and witch hazel water, also known as hamamelis water, are distilled from the dried leaves, bark, and twigs of the witch hazel tree, and are available over the counter (OTC).
Witch hazel is primarily used for relieving pain, itching, burning and irritation caused by hemorrhoids or difficult bowel movements. The therapeutic effect of witch hazel comes from the chemicals it contains, including flavonoids and tannins which have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, skin-tightening (astringent) and vasoconstrictive properties. The alcohol content in witch hazel extract preparations likely provides antibacterial effects.
Witch hazel promotes wound healing by inhibiting elastase and collagenase, the enzymes which break down elastin and collagen that keep the skin intact, flexible and strong. Witch hazel reduces tissue damage from free radicals and by constricting the blood vessels locally, it reduces swelling and itching caused by inflammation.
Suggested topical uses of witch hazel include:
- Irritation from hemorrhoids
- Anorectal irritation and cleansing
- Skin and mucous membrane inflammation and irritation
- Vaginal irritation
People also take witch hazel orally for various conditions including diarrhea, mucous colitis, vomiting blood, coughing up blood, tuberculosis, colds, eye inflammation, varicose veins, fevers, tumors, and cancer. Witch hazel is likely effective for its topical uses, however, there is little scientific evidence to support any of the other uses.
Warnings
- Do not use witch hazel if you are hypersensitive to any of the components in the formulation.
- Witch hazel is for external use only, avoid oral ingestion. Avoid applying in or near the eyes.
What are the side effects of witch hazel?
Common side effects of witch hazel include:
Topical
- Mild skin dryness
- Minor skin irritation
Oral ingestion
Call your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms or serious side effects while using this drug:
- Serious heart symptoms include fast or pounding heartbeats, fluttering in your chest, shortness of breath, and sudden dizziness;
- Severe headache, confusion, slurred speech, severe weakness, vomiting, loss of coordination, feeling unsteady;
- Severe nervous system reaction with very stiff muscles, high fever, sweating, confusion, fast or uneven heartbeats, tremors, and feeling like you might pass out; or
- Serious eye symptoms include blurred vision, tunnel vision, eye pain or swelling, or seeing halos around lights.
This is not a complete list of all side effects or adverse reactions that may occur from the use of this drug. Call your doctor for medical advice about serious side effects or adverse reactions. You may also report side effects or health problems to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

QUESTION
Everyone has hemorrhoids. See AnswerWhat are the dosages of witch hazel?
Liquid, External
- Generic: (500 mL, 4000 mL, 20000 mL)
Solution, External
- Generic: 86% (473 mL)
Pad, External
Administration
Topical
- Apply as needed
- For external use only; do not use in or around eyes
- When practical, cleanse the affected area with mild soap and warm water and rinse thoroughly
Rectal products
- Apply rectal wipes by gently wiping, patting, and blotting the affected area
- Do not put the product into the rectum using fingers or any mechanical device or applicator
Overdose
- With appropriate topical application there is no risk of overdose of witch hazel.
- Oral overdose of witch hazel can cause nausea and vomiting, and kidney or liver damage. If overdose symptoms do not resolve with discontinuation of witch hazel, seek medical help or report to Poison Control.
What drugs interact with witch hazel?
Inform your doctor of all medications you are currently taking, who can advise you on any possible drug interactions. Never begin taking, suddenly discontinue, or change the dosage of any medication without your doctor’s recommendation.
- Witch hazel has no known interactions with other drugs.
The drug interactions listed above are not all of the possible interactions or adverse effects. For more information on drug interactions, visit the RxList Drug Interaction Checker.
It is important to always tell your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider of all prescription and over-the-counter medications you use, as well as the dosage for each, and keep a list of the information. Check with your doctor or health care provider if you have any questions about the medication.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- There isn’t enough information on the safety of witch hazel use in pregnant or breastfeeding women. Topical application and use of rectal wipes are possibly safe. Do not take witch hazel orally if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Never use any herbal product if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, without first checking with your healthcare provider.
What else should I know about witch hazel?
- Witch hazel is possibly safe for most adults when used for topical application.
- Use witch hazel exactly as per label instructions. Do not apply in or around the eyes.
- If you self-medicate with witch hazel, discontinue use and contact your healthcare provider if:
- Condition worsens
- Does not improve within 7 days
- Bleeding occurs
- Witch hazel is marketed as an herbal supplement and is not regulated by the FDA. Products may differ in formulations and strengths, and labels may not always match contents; exercise caution in choosing your product.
- Store safely out of reach of children.
Summary
Witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana) is a tree native to North America. Indigenous Americans have used witch hazel for various conditions including hemorrhoids, sore muscles, insect bites, cuts, rashes, sunburn, and bruises. Common side effects of witch hazel include mild skin dryness, minor skin irritation, nausea, vomiting, stomach upset, liver damage, and kidney damage. Do not take witch hazel orally if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Multimedia: Slideshows, Images & Quizzes
-
Bad Bugs: Identify Insects and Bug Bites
What do bug bites look like? How do you treat bug bites? Why do bug bites burn? See spider bite pictures and learn how to...
-
How to Get Rid of Hemorrhoids: Types, Causes, and Treatments
Learn how to get rid of hemorrhoids, the difference between internal hemorrhoids and external hemorrhoids, what causes...
-
Pain-Relief Tips for Bumps, Bruises, Sprains, and Strains in Pictures
View this First Aid slideshow on Care and Pain Relief. See how to get pain relief if you've bumped your head, sprained your...
-
Bruises (Contusions): Causes, Colors, and How to Heal Them
What are the stages of a bruise (contusion)? When is a bruise serious? What about bruising easily, or bone bruises? Bruises are...
-
Bed Bug Bites: Fighting Back Against Bedbugs
What does a bedbug look like? Learn to ID bedbugs and bedbug bites. Get tips on how to prevent, treat, and get rid of bedbugs.
-
8 First Aid Kit Essentials for Scrapes, Cuts, Bug Bites, and More
Are you always prepared for a first aid crisis? See which basic first aid items to pack to treat minor scrapes, cuts, and stings...
-
Spider Bites: Black Widow vs. Brown Recluse First Aid
Know your spiders and stay safe. Learn to ID a black widow spider and a brown recluse spider though this photo guide. See medical...
-
Picture of Tick Bite Granuloma
Sometimes at the site of a tick bite, a persistent firm papulonodular lesion may develop. A common site for this reaction to...
-
Picture of Acute Sunburn
Sunburn is an inflammation of the skin that develops in response to exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or from...
-
Picture of Brown Recluse Spider Bite
The brown recluse spider, also known as the violin spider, is most commonly found in the Midwestern and southern states of the...
-
Summer Skin Risks: Sunburn, Bug Bites & Poison Ivy
When it comes to summer, there plenty of hazards under the sun! Take the Summer Skin Hazards Quiz and clue in on the dangers to...
-
Hemorrhoids Quiz: Test Your Medical IQ of Piles
Does everyone have hemorrhoids? Test your knowledge of this and many other facts about Hemorrhoids.
-
Picture of Sunburn
Sunburn is an inflammation of the skin that develops in response to exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or from...
-
Picture of Hemorrhoid
A dilated (enlarged) vein in the walls of the anus and sometimes around the rectum, usually caused by untreated constipation but...
-
Picture of Bedbug Bites
The first sign of bedbugs may be red, itchy bites on the skin, usually on the arms or shoulders. See a picture of Bedbug Bites...
-
Picture of Flea Bites
Some people are very sensitive to flea bites -- but scratching can cause a wound or infection. See a picture of Flea Bites and...
-
Picture of Sunburn (First-Degree Burns)
A sunburn is skin damage from the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays. See a picture of Sunburn (First-Degree Burns) and learn more about...
-
Picture of Sunburn (Second-Degree)
Your skin type affects how easily you become sunburned. See a picture of Sunburn (Second-Degree) and learn more about the health...
-
Sun-Damaged Skin: See Sun Spots, Wrinkles, Sunburns, Skin Cancer
See how sun damaged skin can cause wrinkles, moles, melanoma (skin cancer) and more. Explore images of squamous cell carcinoma...
-
Spider Bites: How to Identify, What They Look Like, and Treatment
Do you know what a spider bite looks like? Which spider bites can be fatal? How long does it take to recover from a spider bite?...
-
Summer Skin Dangers: Burns, Bites, Stings, and More
Summer can be hazardous to your skin if you come in contact with jellyfish, stingrays, henna tattoos, poison ivy, oak, sumac,...
Related Disease Conditions
-
Hemorrhoids (Internal and External)
Hemorrhoids (piles) are swollen veins in the rectum and anus. Causes include pregnancy, obesity, diarrhea, low-fiber diet, and prolonged sitting on the toilet. Treatment varies depending upon the severity of the hemorrhoids. Some treatment options include over-the-counter creams and suppositories, stool softeners, warm sitz baths, and hemorrhoidectomies.
-
Flea Bites (In Humans)
Flea bites are caused by the parasitic insect, the flea. The most common species of flea in the US is the cat flea, Ctenocephalides felis. Signs and symptoms of flea bites in humans include itching, hives, a rash with bumps, red spots with a "halo," and swelling around the bite. Treatment for flea bites includes over-the-counter medicine and natural and home remedies to relieve and soothe itching and inflammation. The redness of a flea bite can last from a few hours to several days.
-
Does Pushing a Hemorrhoid Back in Help?
Hemorrhoids are very common and appear when the veins under the lining of the rectum and anus become swollen and bulge. Yes, you can push a hemorrhoid back in.
-
What Will Make Bruises Go Away Fast?
A bruise, medically referred to as a hematoma, is caused when a part of the body gets banged or squeezed, causing the blood vessels to break and bleed just underneath the surface of the skin. There are several strategies you can use to make a bruise go away faster.
-
Do I Have Hemorrhoids or Rectal Prolapse?
Learn more about the major differences between hemorrhoids and rectal prolapse and the kinds of treatment available.
-
Bedbug Bites
Bedbugs (from the insect family Cimicidae) are small, reddish-brown tick-like insects that feed by sucking the blood of mammals. They are often found in poorly sanitized areas or in crowded living quarters.
-
What Kills Hemorrhoids Fast?
Hemorrhoids, also known as piles, can be painful and embarrassing. Learn about home remedies, medications, and other treatments that can kill hemorrhoids fast.
-
How Painful Is a Bone Bruise?
A bone bruise can be excruciatingly painful, severely limit movements, and take several months to heal. Learn about different types, symptoms, and treatment.
-
How To Tell the Difference Between a Spider Bite and a Mosquito Bite
Learn how tell the difference between a spider bite and a mosquito bite and how to care for each.
-
How Long Do Thrombosed External Hemorrhoids Last?
Many thrombosed external hemorrhoids may go away within a few weeks. Pain may improve within 7-10 days without surgery and may disappear within 2-3 weeks.
-
What Should You Not Do if You Have Hemorrhoids?
Swollen veins located in or around the anal canal are known as hemorrhoids. If you have hemorrhoids avoid foods that are fatty or low in fiber; don't pick at hemorrhoids; avoid lifting heavy objects; avoid stress and anxiety; and avoid overusing laxatives.
-
Hematoma vs. Bruise
A hematoma is a localized collection of blood in the tissues of the body outside of the blood vessels. A bruise is a discoloration of the skin that is a result of leakage of blood from capillaries into the skin. Bruises and hematomas are most commonly caused by injury to the tissues. Both minor hematomas and bruises are common results of activities from daily living and usually require no specific treatment. Seek medical care for any hematoma or spontaneous bruising that occurs without any known cause.
-
Should I See a Gastroenterologist or Proctologist for Hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids, commonly called piles, are swollen, inflamed veins around the anus or the lower part of the rectum (the terminal part of the large bowel). They may be felt as tiny lumps in and around the anus. Hemorrhoids may often get better on their own within a few days, but some may need medications and even surgery to go away.
-
How Long Does a Bruised Throat Take to Heal?
In superficial injuries, a bruised throat may go away in a few weeks, whereas more severe injuries may take much longer.
-
What Do Chiggers Bites Look Like?
Chiggers are a mite belonging to the Trombiculidae family. Chiggers are most commonly found in grassy fields, gardens, parks, forests, and moist areas around lakes or rivers. Contrary to popular belief, chiggers do not burrow into the skin. Chiggers insert a feeding structure into the skin and inject enzymes that destroy host tissue. The chiggers then feed on this dead tissue. The most common symptom of a chigger bite is itching. Treatment generally includes antihistamines and calamine lotion.
-
Bumps and Bruises (Contusions and Ecchymoses)
A bruise, or contusion, is caused when blood vessels are damaged or broken as the result of a blow to the skin. The raised area of a bump or bruise results from blood leaking from these injured blood vessels into the tissues as well as from the body's response to the injury. Treatments include applying an ice pack and pressure to the area by hand.
-
How Should You Sleep With Hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids happen when pressure causes veins in your rectum and anus to stretch, swell, and bulge. Sleep with hemorrhoids by pushing them back in, taking a sitz bath before bed, using topical creams and using other strategies.
-
How Do You Treat a Bleeding Hemorrhoid?
Learn what medical treatments can ease your bleeding hemorrhoid symptoms and help you manage this condition.
-
Ticks (Tick Bites)
Ticks are known transmitters of disease to humans and animals. Tick-borne diseases include Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, Q fever, tularemia, babesiosis, and Southern tick-associated rash illness. Infected ticks spread disease once they've bitten a host, allowing the pathogens in their saliva and mouth get into the host's skin and blood. Tick bites are typically painless, but the site of the bite may later itch, burn, turn red, and feel painful. Individuals allergic to tick bites may develop a rash, swelling, shortness of breath, numbness, or paralysis. Tick bite treatment involves cleaning and applying antibiotic cream.
-
Is Tylenol or Ibuprofen Better for Hemorrhoids?
Tylenol helps relieve pain from hemorrhoids, whereas ibuprofen may help reduce both pain and swelling in the surrounding area.
-
How Do You Know if You Have Hemorrhoid Symptoms or Something More Serious?
Hemorrhoids are a painful inflammation of the skin and tissue surrounding the anus and rectum. Some symptoms of hemorrhoids are similar to symptoms of more serious conditions, like colon cancer. Learn what the symptoms are, how to treat them, and when to see a doctor.
-
What Happens If You Leave a Hemorrhoid Untreated?
If you have mild hemorrhoids, leaving them alone can be fine. The swelling and discomfort will usually go away within a few days. Occasionally, though, there may be complications related to hemorrhoids.
-
Recovery From Hemorrhoid Banding
Hemorrhoids and band will dry up and fall off within one to two weeks after the procedure. However, some bleeding will be seen with the stool passage for a few days.
-
Spider Bites (Black Widow and Brown Recluse)
Most spiders in the United States are harmless; however, black widow and brown recluse spider bites may need medical treatment. Symptoms of a harmless spider bite generally include pain, redness, and irritation. Signs and symptoms of a black widow spider bite include pain immediately, redness, burning, and swelling at the site of the bite. Sometimes the person will feel a pinprick or double fang marks. Brown recluse spider bite symptoms and signs are a mild sting, followed by severe pain and local redness. These symptoms usually develop within eight hours or more after the bite. Black widow and brown recluse spider bites have similar symptoms, for example, nausea, vomiting, fever, headache, and abdominal or joint pain. Generally, brown recluse and black widow spider bites need immediate medical treatment. If you think that you or someone you know has been bitten by a brown recluse or black widow spider, go to your nearest Urgent Care or Emergency Department for medical treatment.
-
Natural Home Remedies for Sunburn
There are many natural and home remedies that are thought to relieve the symptoms and signs of a sunburn. Check out our top 30 tips to cool that sunburn, for example, drink lots of water, juice, or sports drinks; apply a cool compress containing Burow's solution; coconut oil can be used as a moisturizer after sunburn pain has stopped; apply topical over-the-counter (OTC) 1% hydrocortisone cream; and take OTC pain relievers like NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or naproxen (Aleve).
-
Sunburn (Sun Poisoning)
Sunburn is caused by overexposure to UV radiation from the sun. UV rays can also damage the eyes. Repeated overexposure to UV rays also increases the risk of scarring, freckles, wrinkles, and dry skin. Symptoms of sunburn include painful, red, tender, and hot skin. The skin may blister, swell, and peel. Sun poisoning (severe sunburn) includes nausea, fever, chills, rapid pulse, dizziness, and more. Home remedies can help relieve sunburn pain, blisters, and peeling. Severe sunburns may need medical treatment. Sun protection and sunscreen for a person's skin type are recommended to decrease the chance of severe sunburn and sun poisoning.
-
Is a Banana Spider Bite Poisonous?
The banana spider is also known as the calico spider, golden silk spider, giant wood spider, Brazilian wandering spider or armed spider. Banana spiders do bite humans and they are poisonous.
-
Can Sunburn Cause Red Spots on the Skin?
When does sun exposure cause red spots on the skin? Learn the causes of red spots, when to see a doctor for red spots, how to prevent red spots, and what you can do to treat red spots.
-
How to Ease Pain When Going to the Bathroom With Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids are a sort of cushion in the anus that protects your anal skin from stool that passes through. Ease pain when going to the bathroom with hemorrhoids by using over-the-counter medications, avoiding straining, and taking sitz baths.
-
Home Remedies for Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids are enlarged, swollen veins in the lowest part of the rectum and anus. These veins bulge and get irritated, especially when the patient defecates, and cause bleeding. Hemorrhoids are also commonly called piles. It is one of the most common causes of rectal bleeding.
-
When Should You Go to the Doctor for Hemorrhoids?
If you're dealing with painful or bleeding hemorrhoids, you're not alone. About one in 20 Americans have hemorrhoids, and that includes half of all adults over age 50.
-
How Long Does it Take Hemorrhoids to Heal?
If you've ever had hemorrhoids, you know that they can be very painful and irritating. Learn what hemorrhoids are, how doctors treat them, and what you can do to speed up their healing.
-
How Do You Know if It's a Bed Bug Bite or a Flea Bite?
Learn the difference between flea bites and bed bug bites.
-
Why Is a Hematoma Worse Than a Bruise?
A hematoma is like a bruise but more serious. A hematoma is worse than a bruise because it's usually a sign of an injury deeper in the skin.
-
What Is the Difference Between a Bruise and a Contusion?
What Is a Bruise and What Is a Contusion? Learn the differences between these two injuries and how to treat them.
-
How Do I Know if I Have Piles (Hemorrhoids)?
Piles (hemorrhoids) are a common condition that you may not even notice you have. Learn what the signs of piles are and how to treat them.
-
How Do You Know When a Bruise Is Serious?
A bruise is a type of wound that appears when tiny blood vessels (capillaries) present under the skin get torn or ruptured. It occurs most commonly because of any blunt trauma to the body part. This may commonly occur because of a fall or a bump.
-
Can You Pop a Hemorrhoid?
Hemorrhoids or piles are swollen, inflamed veins around the anus or lower part of the rectum (the terminal part of the large bowel). They often get better on their own within a few days, but some may need medications and even surgery to go away. You must not pop a hemorrhoid because doing so can lead to painful and serious complications. You must always consult your doctor for a definitive diagnosis and treatment.
-
When Should You Go To the Doctor for a Spider Bite?
Learn what medical treatments can help with your spider bite symptoms and speed up your spider bite recovery.
-
Home Remedies for Mosquito Bites
Mosquito bites appear as red, itchy rashes, which resolves in a few days. A few mosquitoes act as a vector to spread diseases like Malaria, West Nile virus, Yellow fever, Dengue, Chikungunya, Encephalitis (brain infection), and Zika virus.
-
Can You Use Toothpaste to Relieve Mosquito Bites?
While some people only react mildly to mosquito bites, others show severe reactions with intense swelling, soreness, or redness in the affected area. Toothpaste is the most accessible home remedy for mosquito bites.
-
What Is the Best Thing to Put on Fire Ant Bites?
Fire ants are one of the most aggressive insects found all over the world. They don’t bite but sting and it burns, hence their name. These ants are dark reddish-brown in color and nest in soil or the landscaping areas.
-
How Can I Relieve Muscle Soreness?
Here are 11 different ways to relieve muscle soreness at home following an intense workout or rigorous physical activity.
-
What Home Remedy Is Good for Ant Bites?
Various home remedies may help treat ant bites instantly. Some of the good home remedies for effective treatment of ant bites vary.
-
How Does the Bug Bite Thing Suction Tool Work?
The Bug Bite Thing is a suction device that reduces itching, stinging, and swelling caused by bug bites and stings by drawing out the insect saliva that has been left behind beneath the skin.
-
How Do Hemorrhoids Go Away?
Hemorrhoid symptoms may go away with diet and lifestyle modifications. You must, however, seek immediate medical care if your symptoms do not go away in a week or you experience symptoms.
-
How Do You Know If You Are Allergic to Mosquito Bites?
Mosquito bite allergies can cause issues if untreated. Learn the signs of a mosquito bite allergy, what causes it, and what you can do to treat it.
-
Can Frostbite Be Cured?
Frostbite is a curable, yet dangerous, condition that can cause permanent damage if the blood vessels are damaged.
-
What Happens When a Horse Fly Bites You?
Horseflies, also called the green-headed monsters, are small flying insects. Female horseflies feed on blood to reproduce. Like mosquitoes, female horseflies require a protein meal to produce eggs.
-
How Do You Know if Bites Are From Bed Bugs?
How can you tell if you have bed bug bites? Learn what makes bed bug bites unique and how to treat them.
-
What Does Frostbite Feel Like?
Depending on the stage, frostbite may result in the following 13 symptoms.
-
When Should You Worry About an Insect Bite?
Treatment depends on the type of reaction to the bite or sting. A small or mild reaction such as redness and pain may require a local application of ice. Clean the area with soap and water to remove foreign particles.
-
What Spider Bite Can Kill a Human?
The Brazilian wandering spider, or banana spider, can cause painful bites that may result in death, especially in very young children and elderly adults.
-
How Do I Treat Chigger Bites?
Learn what medical treatments can ease your chigger bite symptoms and help you manage this condition.
-
What Is the Best Thing for Sore Muscles?
Exercise may be vital for overall health and longevity, but it comes with pains and sprains. After a robust exercise session, your muscles may get sore or stiff. Slight soreness is a normal response to exercise, but there are good and bad soreness. Soreness should last for a day or two; if it lasts for more than 2 days along with signs of persistent pain, black-and-blue hued bruising, and numbness, then immediately consult a physician.
-
How Do You Stop Mosquito Bites From Itching?
Mosquito bites can be irritating. Learn what causes the itch and how to stop it.
Treatment & Diagnosis

Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
https://www.rxlist.com/consumer_witch_hazel_tucks_medicated_pads/drugs-condition.htm
https://reference.medscape.com/drug/hamamelis-virginiana-tucks-medicated-pads-witch-hazel-344505#0
https://www.uptodate.com/contents/witch-hazel-drug-information
https://www.rxlist.com/witch_hazel/supplements.htm
https://supplements.selfdecode.com/blog/witch-hazel/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3214789/
https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-227/witch-hazel