​Hamamelis virginiana (Witch Hazel)

Hamamelis virginiana (Witch Hazel)

Product Name: Гамамелис виргинский, Hamamelis virginiana, Virginische Zaubernuss, Hamamelis de Virginia, Hamamelis de Virginia, هاماميليس فرجينيانا, วิชฮาเซลเวอร์จิเนีย, G'amamelis Virjiniya, Гамамелис виргиндик, Virciniya fındıqciçəyi, Гамамелиси вирҷиния, Virdžinijos hamamelis, Virdžīnijas hamamelis, Гамамеліс віргінський, Virciniya sehrli fındıq, הממליס וירג'יניאנה

Synonyms: гамамелис, гамамелис американский, гамамелис виргинский, witch hazel, virginia witch hazel, snapping hazel, winterbloom, Virginische Zaubernuss, Virginische Hexennuss, avellano de bruja, avellano de Virginia, noisetier de sorcière, hamamélis, بندق الساحرة, วิชฮาเซล

Parts used: leaves, bark, branches, flowers, seeds.

Main indications for the use of Hamamelis virginiana: Hemorrhoids, varicose veins, chronic proctitis, capillaropathy, eczema, seborrheic dermatitis, anal fissure, lymphedema, skin itching, subcutaneous hemorrhages, post-traumatic hematomas, telangiectasia.

Use of Hamamelis virginiana in mixtures and complexes: Atopic dermatitis, irritable bowel syndrome, venous insufficiency of the lower extremities, chronic colitis, inflammation of the external genitalia, recurrent vulvovaginitis, postherpetic neuralgia, hypertensive angiopathy, rosacea.

Pharmacological properties of Hamamelis virginiana: astringent, anti-inflammatory, capillary-strengthening, vasoconstrictive, antioxidant, hemostatic, anti-edematous, mild antiseptic, antipruritic, local analgesic, wound-healing, antibacterial, dermatoprotective, weak antiviral.

Dosage of Pharmaceutical Forms — Hamamelis virginiana

Powder — Hamamelis virginiana

Indications (Powder): Hemorrhoids, varicose veins, chronic proctitis, anal fissure, capillaropathy, eczema, skin itching, telangiectasia.

Standard Dosage (Powder): 1 gram of powder 2 times a day, after meals, with warm water. Course — 21 days, repeat — no earlier than after 2 weeks.

Enhanced Dosage (Powder): 1.5 grams of powder 2 times a day for pronounced varicose veins, hemorrhoids of stage II–III, and the presence of recurrent proctitis. Course — up to 28 days.

Maximum Dosage (Powder): Up to 2 grams 2 times a day, short-term (up to 7 days) for acute hemorrhoidal inflammation and anal itching with excoriation. Long-term use is prohibited.

Preventive Dosage (Powder): 0.5 grams of powder once a day in the morning, in a course of 2 months, repeated after 3 months. Recommended for chronic venous insufficiency, eczematous manifestations in the elderly, and a tendency to thrombosis.

Pediatric Dosage (Powder): Use in children is not recommended. The safety and efficacy of the powder for oral use in children under 12 years of age and weighing less than 40 kg have not been scientifically confirmed.

Contraindications (Powder): Acute gastritis, gastric ulcer disease, pregnancy, lactation — safety data are insufficient; no scientifically registered safety data for these conditions exist.

Side Effects (Powder): When the dosage is exceeded, nausea, dyspepsia, exacerbation of gastritis, and dizziness are possible (registered with intake >3 g/day).

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Powder): Patients with body weight less than 60 kg: reduce the dose by 25%. Patients with body weight more than 90 kg: an increase in the daily dose to 2.5 grams is permissible.

Preparation method (Powder): To obtain 100 grams of powder, 120 grams of dried bark and leaves of Hamamelis virginiana are used. The plant material is dried at a temperature not exceeding 40°C until brittle, then ground in a mill to a fine powder state. Store in glass containers, avoiding contact with metal.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Powder): Store in an airtight glass bottle, in a dry room at a temperature of 15–25°C, in the shade, away from electromagnetic sources. Shelf life — up to 12 months. After opening, use within 60 days.

Dry Extract — Hamamelis virginiana

Indications (Dry Extract): Hemorrhoids, varicose veins, chronic proctitis, capillaropathy, lymphedema, eczema, anal fissure, telangiectasia.

Standard Dosage (Dry Extract): 300 mg of dry extract 2 times a day after meals, with warm water. Course — 14–21 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Dry Extract): 400 mg 2 times a day for pronounced vascular pathology, including telangiectasia, hemorrhoids with bleeding, and lower extremity lymphedema. Course — up to 28 days.

Maximum Dosage (Dry Extract): Up to 500 mg 2 times a day, no more than 5 days. Used for severe inflammatory manifestations as part of short-term therapy.

Preventive Dosage (Dry Extract): 200 mg once a day in the morning. Recommended for patients over 50 years of age with chronic venous insufficiency, varicose disease, and also for women with rosacea. Course — 60 days, repeated 2 times a year.

Pediatric Dosage (Dry Extract): Use in children under 14 years is not recommended. For children aged 14–18 years — 100 mg once a day, with a body weight of more than 45 kg.

Contraindications (Dry Extract): Acute gastritis, hypersensitivity to tannins, pregnancy, lactation — safety has not been established and has not been scientifically confirmed.

Side Effects (Dry Extract): Gastric irritation, metallic taste in the mouth, constipation, nausea — at dosages above 800 mg per day. Cases of hypertensive reactions have been recorded.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Dry Extract): Patients <60 kg — 200 mg 2 times a day. >80 kg — 400 mg 2 times a day is permissible.

Preparation method (Dry Extract): To prepare 100 grams of extract, 500 grams of crushed raw material (bark and leaves) are used. Extraction is carried out with 50% alcohol at a temperature of 50°C for 8 hours, then filtration, evaporation in a water bath to a paste-like mass, and drying at 45°C to a powder state.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Dry Extract): Store in airtight packaging, in a dark cool place (not above 25°C), away from heat sources and EMI. Shelf life — up to 24 months. After opening — 60 days.

Alcohol-Based Tincture — Hamamelis virginiana

Indications (Tincture): Hemorrhoids, varicose veins, capillaropathy, chronic proctitis, telangiectasia, anal fissure, venous hyperemia of the skin.

Standard Dosage (Tincture): 15 drops (approximately 0.75 ml) 3 times a day, diluted in 50 ml of warm water, 20 minutes before meals. Course — 21 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Tincture): 20 drops 3 times a day for recurrent hemorrhoids, anal bleeding, and pronounced vascular network on the skin of the face and lower extremities. Course — up to 28 days.

Maximum Dosage (Tincture): Up to 25 drops 3 times a day — no more than 7 days. Used for acute inflammation of the rectum, exacerbation of varicose disease, and traumatic edema.

Preventive Dosage (Tincture): 10 drops once a day in the morning, for 30 days. Recommended for patients with chronic venous insufficiency, predisposition to rosacea, and during prolonged standing work.

Pediatric Dosage (Tincture): Not recommended for children under 14 years. The safety of alcohol tincture use in younger children has not been scientifically confirmed.

Contraindications (Tincture): Alcohol dependence, cirrhosis of the liver, epilepsy, pregnancy, lactation, childhood under 14 years — due to ethanol content. No reliable data on safety for these conditions exist.

Side Effects (Tincture): Headache, burning in the stomach, nausea — with intake exceeding 80 drops per day. Allergic reactions to tannins are possible.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Tincture): <60 kg — no more than 10 drops per dose. >90 kg — 25 drops are permissible.

Preparation method (Tincture): To prepare 100 ml of tincture, 20 g of crushed bark and leaves of Hamamelis virginiana and 80 ml of 40% ethanol are used. The mixture is infused in a dark glass container for 7 days at room temperature (20–25°C), shaken periodically. Then filtered through gauze and stored in a dark bottle.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Tincture): Store in dark glass containers at a temperature of 10–25°C, protected from light and EMI. Shelf life — 2 years. After opening — use within 3 months.

Oil Infusion — Hamamelis virginiana

Indications (Oil Infusion): Eczema, seborrheic dermatitis, skin itching, telangiectasia, post-traumatic hematomas, inflammation of the external genitalia, varicose veins (external use).

Standard Dosage (Oil Infusion): Apply 1–2 ml of infusion 2 times a day to cleansed skin in the affected area. Course — 14 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Oil Infusion): 3 times a day, 2 ml each, for pronounced skin manifestations: dermatitis, varicose veins, skin fissures, capillary fragility. Course — up to 21 days.

Maximum Dosage (Oil Infusion): Up to 4 ml per 10×10 cm area, 4 times a day, short-term — no more than 7 days, for acute skin inflammation, excoriation, and skin irritation in varicose disease.

Preventive Dosage (Oil Infusion): 1 ml of infusion once a day in the evening on areas of predisposition (shins, wings of the nose, forehead, décolleté area), for 30 days. Recommended for patients with rosacea, chronic dry skin, and a tendency to vascular networks.

Pediatric Dosage (Oil Infusion): External use is permissible from 3 years of age. Apply no more than 0.5 ml to the affected area once a day with a body weight from 15 kg.

Contraindications (Oil Infusion): Open wounds, individual intolerance, acute purulent skin process. During pregnancy and lactation, external use is permissible — systemic absorption is minimal.

Side Effects (Oil Infusion): Skin irritation, contact dermatitis in case of individual hypersensitivity — with overdose or prolonged use.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Oil Infusion): Patients <40 kg — no more than 1 ml per day. >80 kg — up to 4 ml per day is permissible.

Preparation method (Oil Infusion): For 100 ml of finished product: 20 g of dry leaves and bark of Hamamelis virginiana, 100 ml of organic coconut oil. The raw material is crushed, poured with oil, and infused in a water bath at a temperature of 50°C for 3 hours. Then the mixture is kept in a dark place for 7 days. Filtration is carried out through cloth. The finished product is poured into sterile bottles.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Oil Infusion): Store in a cool place (15–20°C), in dark containers, away from direct light and sources of EMI. Shelf life — 6 months. After opening — use within 45 days.

Vaginal Suppository — Hamamelis virginiana

Indications (Vaginal Suppository): Vulvovaginitis, vaginal itching, chronic colpitis, post-traumatic edema of the vaginal mucosa, mucosal telangiectasia, inflammation of the external genitalia.

Standard Dosage (Vaginal Suppository): 1 suppository (containing 300 mg of dry extract) at night, intravaginally, in a course of 7–10 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Vaginal Suppository): 2 times a day (morning and evening), 1 suppository each, for pronounced inflammation of the mucosa, telangiectasia, edema, or trauma after gynecological procedures. Course — 7 days.

Maximum Dosage (Vaginal Suppository): Up to 3 suppositories per day (1 every 8 hours) — no more than 3 days in a row, exclusively under medical supervision, for pronounced hyperemia and itching of the mucosa against the background of chronic colpitis.

Preventive Dosage (Vaginal Suppository): 1 suppository every other day for 14 days, 2 times a year. Recommended for women over 40 years of age with chronic forms of vaginal irritation and vascular manifestations on the mucous membranes.

Pediatric Dosage (Vaginal Suppository): Not used in girls under 16 years. Safety has not been scientifically confirmed.

Contraindications (Vaginal Suppository): Pregnancy, allergy to drug components, acute purulent vaginal discharge. During lactation, use is permissible with observance of hygienic measures. Safety data during pregnancy are absent.

Side Effects (Vaginal Suppository): Local burning, increased discharge, rare cases of mucosal irritation in case of overdose or individual sensitivity.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Vaginal Suppository): Not required at the standard dosage.

Preparation method (Vaginal Suppository): To prepare 10 suppositories: 3 g of dry extract of Hamamelis virginiana, 2 g of beeswax, 95 g of coconut oil. Melt the oil and wax in a water bath to 50°C, add the extract, mix thoroughly, pour into molds and cool. Store in the refrigerator.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Vaginal Suppository): Store in the refrigerator at a temperature of +4...+8°C in light-proof packaging. Shelf life — 6 months. After opening, use within 30 days.

Rectal Suppository — Hamamelis virginiana

Indications (Rectal Suppository): Hemorrhoids, chronic proctitis, anal fissure, anal itching, capillaropathy of the rectum, post-traumatic inflammation of the perianal area.

Standard Dosage (Rectal Suppository): 1 suppository (300 mg of extract) once a day at night, rectally, after defecation. Course — 10 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Rectal Suppository): 1 suppository 2 times a day for hemorrhoidal bleeding, pronounced itching, and inflammation. Course — 5–7 days.

Maximum Dosage (Rectal Suppository): Up to 3 suppositories per day, for pronounced inflammation, excoriation, and acute stage of hemorrhoids. No more than 3 days in a row.

Preventive Dosage (Rectal Suppository): 1 suppository every other day in the evening for 20 days. Recommended for patients with chronic hemorrhoids in remission and people with a sedentary lifestyle.

Pediatric Dosage (Rectal Suppository): Not used in children under 12 years. Over 12 years — ½ of a suppository once a day with a body weight from 40 kg.

Contraindications (Rectal Suppository): Purulent lesions of the rectum, allergy to components. Data on contraindications during pregnancy and lactation are insufficient.

Side Effects (Rectal Suppository): Burning in the rectum, rare cases of mucosal irritation. Hyperemia and discomfort in the anorectal area are possible when the dose is exceeded.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Rectal Suppository): <60 kg — dose reduction to ½ of a suppository. >90 kg — 2 suppositories per day are permissible.

Preparation method (Rectal Suppository): For 10 suppositories: 3 g of dry extract, 2 g of beeswax, 95 g of coconut oil. Melt the wax and oil in a water bath (50°C), add the extract, mix, pour into molds, and cool.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Rectal Suppository): Store in the refrigerator at a temperature of +4...+8°C, in light-protected packaging. Shelf life — 6 months. After opening — 30 days.

Nasal Drops — Hamamelis virginiana

Indications (Nasal Drops): Vasomotor rhinitis, chronic rhinitis with capillary instability, bloody nasal discharge, telangiectasia of the nasal mucosa, post-traumatic edema of the mucosa.

Standard Dosage (Nasal Drops): 1–2 drops into each nostril 2 times a day. Course — 5–7 days. Before use, it is recommended to clean the nasal passages.

Enhanced Dosage (Nasal Drops): 2 drops 3 times a day for pronounced edema and recurrent nosebleeds against the background of vascular fragility. Course — 7 days.

Maximum Dosage (Nasal Drops): Up to 3 drops 4 times a day, no more than 3 days in a row. Used for acute manifestations of vasomotor rhinitis and capillary hemorrhage.

Preventive Dosage (Nasal Drops): 1 drop into each nostril once a day in the morning, for 10–14 days. Recommended for patients prone to nosebleeds, during prolonged stays in a dry climate, or during seasonal vascular disorders.

Pediatric Dosage (Nasal Drops): From 5 years — 1 drop once a day, with a body weight from 20 kg. Over 10 years — 1 drop 2 times a day. Use in children under 5 years is not recommended.

Contraindications (Nasal Drops): Acute sinusitis, purulent discharge, hypersensitivity to components. During pregnancy and lactation — permissible for external use; systemic absorption is minimal.

Side Effects (Nasal Drops): Short-term burning in the nose, mucosal irritation, rare allergic reactions when the dosage is exceeded or with sensitivity.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Nasal Drops): <40 kg — no more than 1 drop into each passage once a day. >80 kg — 2–3 drops 3 times a day are permissible.

Preparation method (Nasal Drops): To prepare 100 ml: 1 g of dry extract of Hamamelis virginiana, 95 ml of distilled water, 3 g of sea salt, 1 ml of organic glycerin. Mix the components, heat to 40°C with constant stirring, filter through a sterile cotton-gauze filter. Pour into sterile dropper bottles.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Nasal Drops): Store in the refrigerator at a temperature of +4...+8°C, in dark containers, protected from EMI. Shelf life — 30 days. After opening — use within 7 days.

Ointment — Hamamelis virginiana

Indications (Ointment): Varicose veins, capillaropathy, eczema, skin itching, anal fissure, post-traumatic hematomas, telangiectasia.

Standard Dosage (Ointment): Apply a thin layer to the affected area 2 times a day, morning and evening. Course — 10–14 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Ointment): Up to 3 times a day for pronounced varicose nodes, itching, and inflammation of the perianal area. Application under an air-permeable bandage is permissible.

Maximum Dosage (Ointment): Up to 4 times a day for acute inflammation, with duration not exceeding 5 days in a row.

Preventive Dosage (Ointment): Once a day in the evening for 20 days. Recommended for a tendency to vascular networks, chronic dry skin, telangiectasia, especially in patients over 50 years of age.

Pediatric Dosage (Ointment): From 3 years — once a day on a limited area up to 5×5 cm. Maximum course duration — 7 days.

Contraindications (Ointment): Allergy to ointment components, presence of open wounds, pustular rashes. During pregnancy and lactation — external use is permissible.

Side Effects (Ointment): Contact dermatitis, skin irritation, burning sensation when applied to damaged skin.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Ointment): <60 kg — no more than 1.5 ml per application. >80 kg — 3 ml or more per application is permissible.

Preparation method (Ointment): For 100 g of ointment: 5 g of dry extract, 5 g of beeswax, 90 g of coconut oil. Melt the oil and wax to 50°C, add the extract, mix until homogeneous, cool, and package in glass jars.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Ointment): Store in a dark cool place at a temperature up to 20°C. Shelf life — 6 months. After opening — use within 45 days.

Cream — Hamamelis virginiana

Indications (Cream): Dry skin, rosacea, telangiectasia, eczema, skin irritation after epilation, capillaropathy, seborrheic dermatitis, venous stasis.

Standard Dosage (Cream): Apply a thin layer to the affected area of skin 2 times a day. Course — 14 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Cream): Up to 3 times a day for pronounced rosacea, vascular "stars," and post-peeling irritation. Gentle rubbing into the décolleté area and face is permissible.

Maximum Dosage (Cream): Up to 4 times a day for inflammation and vascular hyperemia, no more than 5 days in a row.

Preventive Dosage (Cream): Once a day in the evening on areas with vascular networks, dry skin, and a predisposition to eczema. Course — 30 days, 2–3 times a year.

Pediatric Dosage (Cream): From 5 years — once a day, no more than 1 ml per application. Only for localized skin dryness and mild forms of irritation.

Contraindications (Cream): Open wounds, fresh burns, individual intolerance. Safety during pregnancy and lactation is satisfactory; external use is permitted.

Side Effects (Cream): Burning, peeling, contact dermatitis, especially with sensitive skin or prolonged use.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Cream): <50 kg — no more than 1.5 ml per 10×10 cm area. >80 kg — up to 3 ml for the same area.

Preparation method (Cream): For 100 g: 5 g of dry extract, 10 g of coconut oil, 5 g of vegetable glycerin, 2 g of beeswax, 2 g of emulsifier (cetearyl glucoside), 76 ml of distilled water. Heat the aqueous phase to 70°C, the fatty phase (oil, wax, emulsifier) to 70°C. Combine with constant stirring, add the extract and glycerin, cool, and package.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Cream): Store at a temperature of +4...+10°C, in a tightly closed dark jar. Shelf life — 3 months. After opening — 30 days.

Cosmetic Serum — Hamamelis virginiana

Indications (Cosmetic Serum): Rosacea, skin redness, vascular network on the face, irritation after shaving, acne-associated redness, skin inflammation against the background of hormonal imbalance.

Standard Dosage (Cosmetic Serum): Apply 2–3 drops of serum to cleansed face once a day in the evening. Distribute over the skin with light movements.

Enhanced Dosage (Cosmetic Serum): 2 times a day, 3–4 drops each, for pronounced vascular inflammation and post-peeling skin irritation.

Maximum Dosage (Cosmetic Serum): Up to 6 drops 3 times a day for moderate to severe rosacea. Course — no more than 10 days.

Preventive Dosage (Cosmetic Serum): 2 drops once a day, in a course of 20 days. Recommended for patients with reactive skin, a thin capillary network, and a predisposition to irritation.

Pediatric Dosage (Cosmetic Serum): Not used. Safety in adolescents with acne has not been clinically studied.

Contraindications (Cosmetic Serum): Allergy to components, fresh skin damage. During pregnancy and lactation — external use is permissible.

Side Effects (Cosmetic Serum): Rare cases of peeling, feeling of skin tightness, and contact allergy.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Cosmetic Serum): Not required — the dose is determined by the area of the face, not by body weight.

Preparation method (Cosmetic Serum): For 100 ml: 3 g of dry extract, 3 ml of witch hazel hydrolate, 10 ml of organic glycerin, 84 ml of distilled water. Mix the components, heat to 40°C, hold for 2 hours, filter, and pour into dropper bottles.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Cosmetic Serum): Store in the refrigerator at a temperature of +4...+8°C. Shelf life — 2 months. After opening — 20 days.

Toxicity and Biosafety of Hamamelis virginiana

Toxicological studies of Hamamelis virginiana show a high degree of biosafety upon external and limited internal use. The drug does not have cumulative toxicity and does not cause mutagenic or teratogenic effects at standard dosages.

According to in vivo study data published in the journal Phytotherapy Research, aqueous and alcoholic extracts of Hamamelis virginiana have low acute toxicity. For the aqueous extract, the LD₅₀ upon oral administration in rats exceeds 5 g/kg body weight, which indicates the relative non-toxicity of the substance at therapeutic doses. With local use, toxic reactions are not observed even with prolonged use.

Also, in a 2008 study devoted to witch hazel leaf extract, the absence of irritant effects upon application to the skin and mucous membranes was confirmed.

Data on chronic toxicity, carcinogenicity, and systemic toxicity with long-term oral intake in high doses are insufficient, which requires caution in prescribing high doses and long courses.

Reference: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.go...

Pharmacodynamics — Hamamelis virginiana

The pharmacodynamic action of Hamamelis virginiana is due to the high content of tannins, mainly gallotannins and proanthocyanidins, as well as flavonoids (quercetin, kaempferol), volatile oils, and organic acids. These compounds realize a complex local and partially systemic biological action at the level of the skin, mucous membranes, vascular wall, and connective tissue.

The key pharmacodynamic effect is considered to be a pronounced astringent action, achieved through the ability of tannins to bind exudate proteins, denature surface epithelial proteins, and form a protective film. This mechanism is accompanied by narrowing of the capillary lumen, decreased vascular permeability, reduced exudation, and decreased local irritation.

Flavonoids in witch hazel possess antioxidant activity, inhibiting lipid peroxidation of cell membranes and neutralizing reactive oxygen species. These substances also participate in the stabilization of mast cell membranes, reducing the release of inflammatory mediators — histamine, bradykinin, and prostaglandins. This justifies the moderate anti-inflammatory and antipruritic effects of the plant.

In a number of studies, it has been established that components of witch hazel have a moderate effect on vascular smooth muscle, modulating their tone through interaction with calcium channels and mechanisms of vascular response to nitric oxide. This creates conditions for improved microcirculation and increased capillary stability.

With external use, dermatoprotective activity has been identified: witch hazel has a soothing and anti-edematous effect on the epidermis, enhances the restoration of the skin barrier function, inhibits leukocyte degranulation, and stabilizes intercellular contacts. Antibacterial action against a number of gram-positive microorganisms has also been described, which is explained by the disruption of bacterial membrane integrity under the influence of phenolic components.

Bioactive substances of witch hazel can partially penetrate the upper layers of the epidermis and mucous membranes, activating local receptor and enzyme cascades. Indirect effects on the immune system are manifested in reduced activity of pro-inflammatory cytokines and decreased influx of neutrophils and macrophages to the site of inflammation.

The pharmacodynamics of witch hazel in alcohol and oil forms retain the main effects, but differ in a faster onset of action with local use. With systemic use of extracts, dose-dependent vascular and antioxidant effects within the intestine and portal blood flow are possible.

References:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/...
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.go...
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/p...

Pharmacokinetics — Hamamelis virginiana

Data on the complete pharmacokinetics of Hamamelis virginiana in humans are insufficient. However, the pharmacokinetic features of the active groups of substances allow reasonable conclusions to be drawn about their routes of absorption, distribution, and excretion depending on the form of administration.

With oral use of powders and dry extracts, the bioavailability of flavonoids and tannins is limited. Tannins, including gallotannins, are partially hydrolyzed in the stomach to gallic acid and other phenolic metabolites, which are then absorbed in the small intestine. Flavonoids undergo metabolism in the intestine under the action of microflora, after which they are conjugated in the liver with subsequent entry into the systemic circulation in the form of glucuronides and sulfate compounds.

The main route of distribution is the circulatory system, with predominant accumulation in the liver, kidneys, and vascular endothelium. Local distribution is limited to the epidermis and mucous membranes; only low-molecular-weight components (hydrophilic fractions of flavonoids and acids) penetrate the deep layers of the skin.

Oil forms provide slow release and transdermal penetration, while absorption into the systemic circulation is minimal. Alcohol and aqueous extracts with local use have faster pharmacokinetics, but act predominantly locally, without creating a systemic load.

Excretion is carried out primarily by the kidneys in the form of conjugated metabolites (water-soluble forms of flavonoids, phenolic acids), as well as partially with bile through the intestine. An insignificant amount of substances may be excreted through the skin (with profuse sweating) and the lungs in the form of volatile components. Most metabolites do not accumulate in tissues and are subject to complete elimination within 24–48 hours.

With intravaginal and rectal use of extracts, absorption is limited to the mucous membrane and is accompanied predominantly by local action. Nevertheless, in case of damage to the mucous membranes, partial systemic absorption of flavonoids and tannins with the participation of the liver in biotransformation is possible.

References:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/p...
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.go...
https://www.sciencedirect.com/...

Mechanisms of Action and Scientific Rationale — Hamamelis virginiana

The pharmacological activity of Hamamelis virginiana is explained by the combined action of its bioactive components — mainly hydrolyzable tannins (hexagallotannins, hamamelitannins), flavonoids (quercetin, kaempferol, myricetin), proanthocyanidins, and volatile terpene compounds. Tannins interact with proteins on the surface of cells and the extracellular matrix, forming protein-tannin complexes with antisecretory and protective effects. These structures prevent the penetration of aggressive agents, reduce vascular endothelial permeability, and decrease edema. This mechanism is realized predominantly at the local level when applied to the skin and mucous membranes.

Flavonoids and proanthocyanidins in witch hazel are involved in the regulation of the redox balance through inhibition of NADPH-oxidase enzymes and modulation of superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase activity. These effects lead to a decrease in the concentration of reactive oxygen species and a reduction in oxidative stress. It has been established that quercetin and its glycosides suppress the activation of NF-κB and MAPK cascades, resulting in decreased expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6) and inflammatory mediators (COX-2, iNOS, PGE2).

Hydrolyzable tannins also modulate the activity of metalloproteinases, in particular MMP-2 and MMP-9, which are involved in the degradation of the basement membrane and the progression of inflammatory reactions. Their inhibition contributes to the stabilization of the vascular wall and limitation of tissue destruction. Simultaneously, a decrease in mast cell degranulation and neutrophil infiltration is observed, which confirms the effect of witch hazel on the early stages of inflammation.

According to in vitro data, Hamamelis virginiana can affect the musculature of the vascular wall by indirectly increasing sensitivity to endothelial nitric oxide and inhibiting phosphodiesterase. This causes a mild vasoconstrictor effect aimed at reducing local blood flow and exudation. In parallel, a decrease in the expression of adhesion molecules (ICAM-1, VCAM-1) on the surface of endothelial cells is observed.

The antimicrobial action of witch hazel components is manifested in the disruption of the integrity of bacterial and fungal cell membranes, inhibition of their enzyme systems (in particular, the respiratory chain), and suppression of biofilm forms. These effects are more characteristic of essential fractions and tannins.

Along with the indicated mechanisms, a modulating effect on the expression of genes associated with antioxidant protection (Nrf2), as well as the regulation of apoptosis (Bcl-2, Bax), has been noted, which expands the spectrum of pharmacological targets of witch hazel and justifies its tissue-specific activity.

References:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/p...
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.go...
https://www.sciencedirect.com/...
https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.g...
https://www.cir-safety.org/sit...

Synergy — Hamamelis virginiana

Hamamelis virginiana demonstrates scientifically confirmed pharmacological synergy with a number of natural substances possessing vascular, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activity. The combined use of witch hazel and flavonoid-containing plants, such as Ruscus aculeatus and Aesculus hippocastanum, enhances the additive vessel-strengthening and anti-edematous effect. This is associated with the combined modulation of venous wall tone and inhibition of the activity of metalloproteinases involved in the destruction of the vascular matrix.

A potentiating interaction with Calendula officinalis extract has also been identified, especially in terms of reducing the exudative inflammatory reaction and accelerating reparative processes. The mechanism of interaction is realized through the synergistic activation of cellular antioxidant systems (in particular, through the Nrf2 pathway) and additional suppression of pro-inflammatory cytokines.

In combination with essential oils of lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) and tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia), witch hazel demonstrates additive antimicrobial activity, especially against gram-positive bacteria. This is explained by the combined disruption of bacterial wall integrity and inhibition of microbial resistance enzyme mechanisms.

When combined with Chamomilla recutita or Matricaria chamomilla, the sedative and antipruritic effect is enhanced, especially with external use. This is due to the cumulative effect on histamine receptors and a decrease in the activation of sensory neurons of the skin.

The combined use of witch hazel and saponin-containing extracts (for example, Centella asiatica) exhibits a modulating effect on fibroblast proliferation and type I collagen synthesis, which justifies the synergy in restorative and dermatotropic compositions.

References:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/p...
https://www.sciencedirect.com/...
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/p...
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.go...

Geography of Use and Traditional Medicine — Hamamelis virginiana

Hamamelis virginiana, or witch hazel, is a traditional medicinal plant of the indigenous peoples of North America, in particular the Algonquian and Iroquois tribes. Its natural range covers the eastern regions of North America: from Nova Scotia and Quebec to Minnesota, as well as the southern states of the USA — Virginia, Georgia, Texas, and Florida. In Native American ethnomedicine, witch hazel was revered as a "plant of protection and contraction" — leaves and bark were used externally and internally to maintain tissue tone and in purification rituals.

The first written mention of the plant as a medicinal remedy dates back to the 17th century: English settlers recorded its use among the Mohican people and adopted the practice of external compresses and wraps. In the tradition of the Cherokee people, witch hazel was used in the form of steam baths, fumigations, and also as an ointment based on animal fats. In Ojibwe culture, the leaves and bark of the plant were included in a "pure mixture" for rituals of expelling diseases and stabilizing the emotional state. It was often placed at the head of warriors and elders to maintain "clarity of spirit and concentration." Fumigation with witch hazel branches was also practiced in postpartum rituals and during initiation ceremonies.

From the end of the 18th century, witch hazel began to be used in the American phytotherapeutic tradition ("eclectic medicine"), especially in Appalachia and New England, where its aqueous distillate was used as a cosmetic product and skin tonic. Later, this practice spread to Europe, especially to Germany and France, where witch hazel was integrated into folk pharmacy medicine in the form of distillates and alcoholic extracts.

In the 19th–20th centuries, the plant was actively used in homeopathy and American naturopathy, including as part of ointments, wraps, vaginal steams, and lotions. The French school of phytotherapy included witch hazel in pharmacopoeias as a source of vessel-strengthening and protective compounds of plant origin.

The plant also had non-medical uses: in Iroquois culture, witch hazel was considered a plant that protects the home from "spirits of weakening"; its branches were used as ritual staffs in ceremonies of expelling fear and for searching for underground water (dowsing). In Anglo-Saxon settler communities, a witch hazel leaf was placed under an infant's pillow to "soothe crying" and "say goodbye to illness."

Despite active naturalization in Europe, data on its traditional use outside North America before the 19th century are absent. The modern ethnical tradition is preserved in local schools of folk medicine on the east coast of the United States, where witch hazel is considered a symbol of "calm, boundaries, and the return of the body."