Witch of Walkerville Witch Hazel Leaf

Witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana) blossoms in very late autumn and winter, and is also known as winterbloom (for fairly obvious reasons), snapping alder, spotted alder, tobacco wood, pistachio or wych elm.

Magickal uses of Witch Hazel are protection, chastity and divination, specifically through dowsing. It is good for cooling the passions, such as those brought on by a broken heart.

You can also make a tincture of it (1 part alcohol to 5 parts fresh bark and leaves) and you can create a very astringent rub that can relieve pain, make mouthwashes, reducing inflammation, addressing skin irritation, addressing sore throats (especially inflamed), hemorrhoids, acne, wards of certain viral infections, and much more. 

The origins of 'witch' are from the old English word wyche, meaning 'pliable' or 'bendable' and relates to the plant's very flexible branches, and nothing to do with witchcraft. The flexible forked twigs of witch hazel are preferred as divining rods. Regardless, modern witches do consider witch hazel a magical plant, to ward off evil and to help heal a broken heart. 
'Hazel' because the plant's leaves resemble those of a hazelnut tree.

The first people to use witch hazel for its healing properties were the Native Americans. A decoction was used to treat swellings and inflammations. Native Americans also used witch hazel branches to make bows and as divining rods to locate water and mineral deposits. European settlers saw the effects they achieved with this plant, which was how it found its way to Europe in the 18th century. 

Witch hazel is rich in tannins. It’s believed that tannins provide plants with a defence against bacteria and fungi, and UV, and are potent antioxidants.

1 package of witch hazel. 

All herbs are sold for spell work use. Although all herbs are food grade quality, please consult your doctor or test for allergies before ingesting. Consult a doctor before using any herbal medicines.