Synonyms: Hamamelis
Witch Hazel suppositories and ointment consist of natural ingredients - as the name suggests, they are based on the plant of the same name, which can be found in the wild in East Asia, North America and the Caucasus. Due to its valuable medicinal properties, it is planted in apothecary gardens in Europe.
In addition to its main name, witch hazel is also called a magic or witch hazel. This is probably due to the fact that the plant is very unlike others in its “shaggyness” and the possibility of flowering in the autumn. Another version of this name is due to the fact that many could not distinguish this plant from hazel, but they never received the expected nuts.
This shrub wins the hearts of those who see it: with its shining yellow flowers, delicate aroma, and unusualness. Speaking of unusualness, it is worth noting that not all varieties of witch hazel are able to bloom in the fall. In general, it also traditionally blooms in early spring, but this process occurs earlier than other shrubs and trees - the weather at this time is more winter than spring. Of course, the sight is truly magical, considering that everything else around still shows no signs of life.
The fruits of this shrub also have their own characteristics. This is a seed pod containing 2 shiny seeds inside. Often flowers and fruits from the previous season coexist on a tree. When fresh, these boxes are not so easy to open, but at home, when dried, they open on their own and literally shoot out seeds. The fruits of witch hazel contain a large amount of essential oil, and the bark, branches and leaves contain astringent tannins (they, among other things, have an antibacterial effect), which allows the plant to be used in medicine and perfumery.
Release form and composition
The active ingredient of the drug is a homeopathic tincture of witch hazel. Auxiliary components are different and depend on the form of release.
The product is available in the following dosage forms:
- Homeopathic ointment in tubes of 25, 30 and 40 g;
- Rectal suppositories, 10 pieces per package;
- Homeopathic tincture in bottles of 900 and 450 g;
- Homeopathic granules, 10 g in bottles;
- Impregnation for napkins, 10 pieces in a cardboard box.
Hamamelis
HAMAM E LIS
Hamamelis virginiana Fem. Hamamelis
Tincture and rubbing are prepared from the bark, root and young shoots.
Pathogenesis is found in the second edition of Hel's New Medicines.
In experimenters, HAMAMELIS caused various types of bleeding; headache, relieved by nosebleeds; sharp hyperemia of the soft palate, pharynx and tonsils; uterine bleeding: women who took the 3rd dilution 3 times a day for the experiment experienced significant bleeding during the day, and they lost almost a quarter of their blood until this bleeding stopped on its own (this bleeding was during the intermenstrual period). Hemorrhoids with swelling, pain and bleeding.
HAMAMELIS also causes pain in the testicles so severe that the experimenter (Dr. Burt) was forced to stop further testing: pain from the groin descended along the spermatic cord of the testicles. Thus, based on the experiences of Dr. Burt, HAMAMELIS is prescribed with complete success for ovarian neuralgia.
CHARACTERISTIC SYMPTOMS
Painful bruised feeling in the affected parts, as after a blow.
The veins are filled with blood, greatly distended and sensitive to touch.
Dark and heavy menses with abdominal pain. Uterine bleeding between menstruation.
MAIN INDICATIONS
Venous bleeding, in which the blood flows slowly, without interruption, “it is indicated for bleeding due to the painful condition of the vessels, and not the blood itself” (R. Hughes).
Phlebitis.
Varicose veins. “With dilated veins in the calves, it is pleasant to see that 1 C or 2 C dilution relieves pain, while compresses of diluted tincture help contract the distended vessels” (Jousset). This drug also helps well with varicose veins in the throat, which give it a bluish color with pain when swallowing and the discharge of bloody mucus.
Hemorrhoids with bleeding. “The looseness of the veins and their easy rupture when straining during stool or even without it are characteristic of HAMAMELIS. Without this characteristic, HAMAMELIS is prescribed indiscriminately with greater or lesser success. HAMAMELIS works well for persistent hemorrhoidal bleeding, which eventually leads to severe anemia, especially in men. To stop these blood losses, 12 drops of the first decimal or hundredth dilution are enough.”
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Inflammation of the testicle and veins of the spermatic cord. Testicular neuralgia and inflammation of the epididymis, especially when there is severe pain and swelling.
Neuralgia and inflammation of the ovaries, dysmenorrhea in women with very heavy menstruation.
Doses
Typically, tincture and low dilutions from the 1st decimal dilution to the 3rd hundredth are used.
Summary
HAMAMELIS is called ACONITUM for veins. Its main characteristics are venous stagnation and bleeding, especially passive bleeding. This is the main medicine for lesions of the veins and is very useful for orchitis.
Disease history
SEVERE, PROTRACTED HEMORRHOIDAL
BLEEDING
On October 19, 1901, I observed at an appointment a very rare case of hemorrhoidal bleeding. We are talking about a 35-year-old man who had suffered from hemorrhoids for the last 10 years, but bleeding first appeared a year and a half ago and was observed almost every time he passed a stool, that is, twice a day, and each time the patient lost a large amount of blood. The signs of hemorrhagic cachexia are clearly visible: a swollen face of a pale color, rapidly emerging shortness of breath, which worsens despite a good appetite, and weakness.
Allopathic treatment was practically limited to the prescription of ointments and did not give any result, so in the future there was only surgical intervention for emergency indications.
On October 28, I prescribed HAMAMELIS tincture, 3 drops in 200 g of water and 2 spoons daily. On November 2, the patient reported to me that on the first day he felt better and there was less bleeding. But later, when the medicine ran out, the bleeding resumed with the same force.
I prescribed HAMAMELIS 20 drops of tincture to be taken in the same manner.
On November 22, the patient felt better, the bleeding became many times less, and his strength returned. I left the NAMAMELIS intake as before, and added NVX VOMICA from 12, 3 grains in the evening.
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On November 30, he reported that the improvement continued until the last days, then there were two severe bleedings, so that he again looked pitiful. I increased the dose and prescribed 30 drops of HAMAMELIS tincture (first dose in the same manner as before).
On December 11, the bleeding was as severe as in previous times: the patient was very weak and discouraged. I found the situation serious, we agreed on a consultation with one surgeon, but since he could not come, I made up my mind and gave HAMAMELIS C on December 15, 3.2 drops in 200 g of water, from there 2 spoons daily.
On December 24, the improvement was so significant that there was not a single drop of blood in the stool. The reception continued. By January 8, the patient had not seen me for 14 days, so he had not taken medication for 8 days, but the improvement was maintained. The patient loses a small amount of blood every day. I gave him NAMAMELIS C 12.6 grains in 200 g of water. On January 25, there was no more blood in the patient’s stool, and his strength was returning. The patient clearly recovered, and I decided to stop treatment.
Pierre Jousset
A comment
This case history clearly confirms what I said in the introduction to this book: “Only experience at the patient’s bedside determines the dose of our medicines!” Rest assured: homeopaths do not resort to indefinitely small doses due to mental delusions or to give rise to ridicule; They do this because experience has shown them, as in the case described above, that these indefinitely small doses are often more effective than significant doses, provided that the principle of Similarity is observed.
Remember the following rule: if a medicine is clearly indicated according to the Similarity position, but despite this does not work, then in this case it is necessary to examine the dose scale: most often you will come across an effective healing dose.
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But please, do not think that HAMAMELIS cures all cases of hemorrhoidal bleeding! Jousset himself cites cases where HAMAMELIS did not bring any success and the remedies were SECALE CORNUTUM or MILLEFOLIUM.
Share your interest!
Indications for use
Indications for the use of Witch Hazel granules are:
- Thrombophlebitis;
- Bleeding in gynecology;
- Phlebeurysm;
- Bleeding in obstetrics;
- Hemorrhoids;
- Inflammation of the ovaries;
- Varicocele;
- Polymenorrhea.
Rectal suppositories are prescribed to prevent the appearance of hemorrhoids and treat hemorrhoids.
Witch hazel ointment is indicated for insect bites, thermal burns, rectal irritation, hemorrhoids, and also as a prophylactic for dermatitis, rosacea, hemorrhoids and exudative diathesis.
Witch hazel in homeopathy
Homeopathic remedies Witch hazel are produced in the form of rectal suppositories, impregnated wipes, granules for oral administration and ointments.
The medicinal properties of this plant were known to the ancient Greeks, thanks to them it received its name, meaning “blooming and at the same time bearing fruit.” The Indians were the first to use this plant as a medicine. They valued the plant primarily for its ability to heal wounds well. They washed the wounds with a decoction of leaves and dried bark; it helped stop bleeding. This medicine was also used in other cases: for the treatment of eyes, for intestinal disorders.
As other peoples settled in America, more and more people learned about the miraculous properties of the plant. As a result, in 1840 the USA launched mass production of a medicine from an infusion of the plant, it was called “Medicine Man.” Europeans also became interested in this shrub - after studying it, they discovered its ability to have a beneficial effect on blood vessels. It was recommended for hemorrhoids, varicose veins, spider veins, a feeling of heaviness and fatigue in the legs - in a word, for all the ailments of a sedentary lifestyle.
The plant was carefully studied by homeopaths of that time. They advised Witch Hazel for venous congestion of various origins, bleeding and hemorrhage, painful bruises, as well as for a feeling of pressing pain in the head.
Since then, the plant has not stopped being studied; rather, on the contrary, many of its medicinal properties have been discovered. One of the recent discoveries is related to the fact that scientists were able to find out that witch hazel extract can inhibit the cells of malignant tumors.
Directions for use and dosage
The method of use of the drug depends on the form of release.
Rectal suppositories are inserted into the rectum. The recommended dose is 1-2 suppositories per day. After administration, the patient should remain in bed for at least 30-40 minutes. The duration of treatment depends on the severity of the disease and the nature of its course.
Witch hazel ointment, according to the instructions, is used externally 1-2 times a day by applying to the affected areas and lightly rubbing from bottom to top. Duration of therapy is 1-2 weeks. For hemorrhoids, a small amount of ointment is applied to a tampon, which is inserted into the anus once or twice a day; the course of treatment is 1-2 weeks.
Impregnated wipes are applied to the anus as an application. The procedure is carried out three times a day. The wipes can also be used as wet toilet paper. For inflammatory dermatological diseases, napkins are applied to the affected area.
The dosage and frequency of taking homeopathic granules are determined individually by the attending physician.
Type and psyche of the patient
All homeopaths know that the essence of a patient’s chronic disease is reflected in the characteristics of his character. Only mental symptoms can unite the disease into a single whole. The doctor who is engaged in treatment clearly sees that in the patient’s body not only the organs are “sick,” but also his soul.
A depressive state against a background of physical weakness is what characterizes the Hamamelis virginica patient. At the same time, it is also worth noting memory problems and a person’s inability to concentrate his attention on one thing. Source: Flickr (Erin Nicole Photography)
Patients are unable to adapt to the world around them and express their condition in the “language of the organs.”
The goal of a homeopathic doctor is to find the cause and find out the true meaning of the disease.
Witch hazel extract is suitable for sensitive, nervous, depressed and easily excitable patients. Usually the patient feels mental and physical weakness and is unable to work mentally. He is very afraid of the cold. During a conversation, the Hamamelis virginica patient loses the “thread of the conversation”, forgetting the right word. He has poor memory, absent-minded attention and lacks the desire to learn. At the same time, he has a selfish character and demands attention and respect. In the mornings, the patient suffers from headaches, which intensify when bending over. All these factors result in a general irritable state. Calm comes during bleeding.
Note! Witch hazel tincture has a red color, which is typical for drugs that have a beneficial effect on the circulatory system of the human body.
Beneficial properties of witch hazel
Witch hazel has good strengthening properties. When used according to recipes, the plant:
- increases the elasticity of the walls of blood vessels;
- accelerates the healing process for wounds, cuts and abrasions;
- stops bleeding;
- has an analgesic and antiseptic effect;
- fights fungi and infections;
- helps with external and internal hemorrhoids;
- promotes rejuvenation of the body;
- prevents the development of oncological processes;
- eliminates swelling and removes toxins and waste from the body;
- has a strengthening effect and helps cope with diarrhea;
- regulates the production of subcutaneous sebum and eliminates dandruff;
- cleanses skin with acne, pimples and blackheads;
- helps cure dermatitis.
Witch hazel-based products are used for inflammatory diseases of the throat and oral cavity. Decoctions and infusions improve the condition of sore throat, periodontal disease and tonsillitis.
Reviews about homeopathy
The husband suffered from hemorrhoids. For a very long time he did not dare to see a doctor, he said that it was a shame to talk about such an illness. But still, I convinced him to see a specialist. He was prescribed a course of treatment with rectal suppositories with witch hazel, and it was recommended to replace toilet paper with wipes containing the same active ingredient. The acute symptoms passed very quickly . Now my husband doesn’t even remember about the disease.
Tamara, Ulyanovsk
My daughter had teenage acne. We tried a lot of different remedies, but there was no effect. We went to a homeopath and he prescribed lotion with witch hazel extract. All acne and pimples went away very quickly. I recommend this wonderful product to everyone.
Ekaterina, Moscow
I suffered from gum inflammation and had an unpleasant odor from my mouth. A friend recommended rinsing your mouth with witch hazel extract. Now I don’t even remember about my problem , but I rinse once a week for prevention.
Raisa, Nizhny Novgorod
Collection and preparation
The leaves and flowers of the medicinal plant are harvested during the decorative period in September, and the bark is collected throughout the year. You can dry healthy raw materials in a warm, ventilated room naturally or using a dehydrator heated to 50 °C.
Witch hazel should be stored in glass containers, paper bags or fabric bags in a dark place with low humidity. From time to time, the raw materials should be stirred to prevent mold.
Witch hazel leaves, flowers and bark retain valuable properties throughout the year.
special instructions
Despite the fact that homeopathic remedies are recommended to be used strictly as prescribed by a homeopathic doctor, many people consider them to be completely harmless and use them on their own. Therefore, the instructions for use contain special instructions.
Witch hazel ointment is for external use only . Do not apply it to the mucous membranes of the nose or mouth. If the ointment accidentally gets into your eyes or mucous membranes, you must immediately rinse them with clean water.
During the period of use of drugs, it is important to give up alcohol, smoking, drinking coffee and spicy foods. The drugs should not be used simultaneously with camphor, chamomile or mint.
What it looks like and where it grows
Witch hazel (Hamamelis) is a deciduous shrub of the Witch Hazel family, up to 12 m tall. It has graceful spreading branches with jagged dark green leaves on dense petioles. At the beginning of autumn, the crown of the plant turns yellow and falls off, and flowering begins at the same time. Numerous golden buds with long petals and purple stamens appear on the branches of witch hazel.
The flowers of the plant tolerate temperature drops down to -12 °C well.
The decorative period of the plant takes about two weeks. After this, witch hazel bears fruit - miniature egg-shaped nuts. It takes about six months to fully ripen; only at the beginning of summer the plant scatters black seeds, sometimes flying 10 m from the mother bush.
Witch hazel can be found in the Caucasus, East Asia and North America. For growth, the shrub chooses mainly light forests and river banks.
Contraindications
When used externally, the product has no contraindications, with the exception of intolerance to the component - Witch Hazel plant extract.
Source: flickr (jannetajeda). Even the temporary deterioration in well-being for up to 6 hours, which is typical for the beginning of homeopathic therapy, does not occur when using the drug in the form of an ointment.
The ointment is completely safe if, when used, it does not come into contact with open wounds or the mucous membranes of the mouth and nose. If this happens, you should immediately rinse the area of the body with running water.
It is important! Children under 14 years of age, women during pregnancy and breastfeeding can receive treatment only after consulting a homeopath, who will weigh the risks and effectiveness of using the ointment before prescribing the remedy and dosage.
If the product is used for hemorrhoids, the same contraindications apply to the ointment as when using rectal suppositories. The use of the product is unacceptable when:
- rectal bleeding;
- pinched hemorrhoid;
- bowel prolapse.
Important! Also, consultation with a therapist, a doctor of narrow specialization and a homeopath should be obtained in the presence of serious somatic pathologies, for example, functional organ failure.
