The flowers are unusual with yellow fleshy thread-like petals. The fruit forms a seed surrounded by proteins. In Greece, there are the species Hamamelis japonica, Hamamelis virginiana, and Hamamelis arborea. The tree blooms in January and February.

INGREDIENTS

The leaves and bark contain a slimy substance, amygdalin, traces of a saponin, and flavonoid pigments. Additionally, the tree contains tannins (mainly hydrolysable tannins, up to 6% in the bark, and condensed tannins, up to 10% in the leaves – primarily gallotannins, condensed catechins, and proanthocyanidins), essential oil that is slightly anesthetic, resins, and sugars. The bark and leaves are used for beneficial purposes.

PROPERTIES

• The leaves of the herb have astringent, anti-inflammatory, and anti-hemorrhagic properties.
• A small amount of witch hazel, which we will use to block the nose with cotton, stops nosebleeds in urgent situations, can be applied to wounds, and to soothe insect bites.
• It is particularly useful for hemorrhoids.
• Due to its decongestant action, it can be applied in cases of injuries (bruises) or inflammatory swellings.
• Its action as a venous constrictor makes it beneficial for problems related to varicose veins.
• Tonic for the digestive system in cases of stomach ulcers or colic and irritable bowel syndrome.

USAGE

The leaves of the herb are prepared as an infusion. We pour a cup of boiling water over 1 teaspoon of dried leaves and let it steep covered for 10-15 minutes. The drink is consumed three times a day. For acne, boils, and burns, it is used in the form of a compress. The decoction is also used for rinses on bleeding gums and ulcers of the oral mucosa. The herb's cream is applied externally for hemorrhoids and varicose veins 2 to 6 times daily. It can also be included in cosmetic creams because it acts preventively against skin aging and the appearance of wrinkles. For hemorrhoids, the herb combines very well with St. John's wort.

Warning!

Use should be avoided by pregnant women, children, and individuals with allergies. It should not be used in cases of 'dry' eczema on sensitive and dry skin. Internal use should be under the supervision of a specialist because tannins can hinder the absorption of essential nutrients. The properties of each herb make it our ally in dealing with various diseases. However, overconsumption can lead to unwanted results. For this reason, you should always consult your doctor before taking any herb.