Little Witch Hazel: A Year in the Forest

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According to one study in 1,373 people, using a shampoo containing witch hazel extract was effective in reducing scalp irritation ( 11). Little Witch Hazel lives in Mosswood Forest in a home at the base of a tree trunk. Her distinctive personality is fleshed out vividly throughout this thoroughly satisfying set of four stories, one for each season. Stoic, diligent, and giving, Hazel nurtures an orphaned owl egg in spring; is convinced by friends to take a day off in summer; helps a lonely troll in autumn; and is saved from a storm in winter by Otis, the owl she once mothered. The detailed, evocative worldbuilding will have readers lingering. They’ll meet a friendly and funny (especially the chipmunk with the toothache) community of anthropomorphic creatures, such as Wendell the sailing frog and Mousepappa (who wears the apron and takes care of the babies). Many creatures are fantastical (dryads, goblins). Refreshingly, nothing is sanitized: Little Witch Hazel is not gaunt and whimsical; she’s curvaceous, sturdy, and strong. She even has hairy legs; she has more important things to do than shave, such as serve as midwife to Mrs. Rabbit. The writing is lush and lyrical (“milky clouds…hung low”), and the textured, earth-toned illustrations expertly capture Hazel’s world, both cozy (her tiny home) and gloriously wild (the forest she tends to). Hazel is White; the “beasts of all shapes and sizes” readers meet include fantastical creatures of color and one who uses a wheelchair. (This book was reviewed digitally.) Witch hazel’s anti-inflammatory properties reduce the swelling, and it tightens up the skin to reduce the overall puffiness and any redness. Just apply a little witch hazel over the eyelid and under the eye or follow our instructions below to use witch hazel as a soothing eye mask. Tone Skin I'm not entirely sure how a book like this will play to a modern child audience. As an adult, though, I found it charming, with decent writing and good messages. I enjoyed the little details in the illustrations (such as Little Witch Hazel's hairy legs) and found the limited colour palette refreshing.

As soon as you feel the beginning of a cold sore, dab on a little witch hazel. Witch hazel can get rid of cold sore overnight. It calms the inflammation and prevents it from progressing to the blister stage. Use it regularly on existing cold sores to speed healing. Heal Sore Gums and Mouth Boiling one teaspoon (5 ml) of witch hazel in one cup (240 ml) of water for about 10 minutes, then gargling with the mixture, may provide relief. Trüeb, R. M. (2014, July–September). North American Virginian witch hazel ( Hamamelis virginiana): Based scalp care and protection for sensitive scalp, red scalp, and scalp burn-out. International Journal of Trichology, 6(3), 100–103

While there is no research to support its use for this purpose, one small study found that a shampoo containing witch hazel was effective in reducing irritation and sensitivity of the scalp. Applying a bit of witch hazel to your scalp before washing your hair may help treat scalp sensitivity and provide relief from symptoms, such as itching and tenderness.

I love this book fiercely. . . . It is such a magnificent book, and I hope we get to read even more one day about this character and her world.” — 7 Impossible Things Before Breakfast

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Because of its ability to decrease inflammation and act as an astringent, witch hazel is sometimes used to treat sore throats. Witch hazel is an astringent. People commonly use it topically, meaning they apply it directly to the skin. National Center for Biotechnology Information. American witchhazel leaf. PubChem Substance Record for SID 160687624. Source: ChEMBL. Witch hazel regulates the oil production of the skin, removes excess oil, and kills bacteria on the skin that cause odor problems. With regular use, it acts as an antiperspirant, but it may take a few days to get perspiration regulated. Use a deodorant as needed. Improving My Mood

One of the researchers involved with the study had links to the shampoo manufacturers, however. For this reason, more independent studies are needed to prove that witch hazel works for this purpose. Witch hazel does an excellent job of removing the dirt and oils from your skin. But, it goes a step further and balances your skin’s oil production. Use it one to three times daily, depending on the oiliness of your skin. You’ll soon notice that your skin is healthier and less oily. Use Witch Hazel after Waxing Use witch hazel to clean scrapes and then continue to apply it until the cut has healed. Witch hazel soothes the skin, prevents infection, and encourages healing. Soothe and Clear Diaper Rash In a pot with a tight fitting lid, addHamamelis virginiana bark or leaves and water to cover. Bring to a boil and reduce heat. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes.

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Researchers at the University of Barcelona have published a study showing that witch hazel extracts inhibited the proliferation of colon cancer cells and caused the death of existing cancerous cells. This preliminary study done in Petri dishes, but it shows that witch hazel has a promising future and needs more studies. ( ..) Preventing Swimmer’s Ear Dampen a cotton ball with witch hazel as a face wash for acne and wipe it across your entire face and other places where you are prone to acne. Use it three or more times daily for best results. Because it treats the causes and effects of acne, it gets rid of blemishes and prevents new ones. Remove Makeup If your skin reacts, you may be able to dilute the product 1:1 with water and try the patch test again. What Does Witch Hazel Do? Some people may experience skin irritation or allergic reactions after applying witch hazel topically. Echoing the meter of “Mary Had a Little Lamb,” Ward uses catchy original rhymes to describe the variety of nests birds create.

Hayes E, McCuiston LE, Kee J. Pharmacology: A Patient-Centered Nursing Process Approach. New York, NY: Elsevier Health Sciences. Varicose veins are dilated veins in the legs that can cause significant discomfort. Some people also find their appearance bothersome. Mott T, Latimer K, Edwards C. Hemorrhoids: Diagnosis and Treatment Options. Am Fam Physician. 2018;97(3):172-179.Witch hazel may also help relieve inflammation, which could be useful in reducing scalp sensitivity caused by conditions like psoriasis or eczema. Witch hazel, as we know it, is an extract of the North American witch-hazel tree, Hamamelis virginiana. The bark and leaves are useful in traditional preparations, mostly topically. What is Witch Hazel used for? As a medicinal ingredient and topical agent, witch hazel water is considered an over-the-counter drug. It is used most often to treat and soothe skin irritations. Is Witch Hazel Safe?