Witch Hazel for Hemorrhoids: What the Science Says

By Dr. M. Faisal Hossain, Assistant Director of Research (PharmD) and Assistant Professor of Pharmaceutical Sciences at the Appalachian College of Pharmacy, USA

What Is Witch Hazel?

Witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana) has been a trusted natural remedy for centuries, particularly for skin inflammation, irritation, and minor bleeding. One of its most well-known modern uses is in the treatment of hemorrhoids. The plant’s leaves, bark, and twigs are harvested and distilled into witch hazel water, which contains the plant’s active constituents. But what exactly makes witch hazel effective?

Let’s delve into the science, traditional uses, bioactive components, and clinical evidence behind witch hazel, particularly regarding its effectiveness in relieving hemorrhoid symptoms.

What Are Hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the anus or rectum that can cause:

• Pain
• Bleeding
• Itching
• Swelling

How Witch Hazel Works for Hemorrhoids

Witch hazel is used externally as a natural astringent, meaning it tightens tissues, reduces swelling, and eases itching. It’s commonly found in hemorrhoidal pads, wipes, or toners.

✅ 1. Reduces Swelling and Inflammation

Witch hazel’s tannins shrink inflamed tissues and blood vessels.

Astringent action = tissue contraction = less swelling and pain

✅ 2. Stops Minor Bleeding

By constricting blood vessels, witch hazel may help stop minor rectal bleeding.

✅ 3. Relieves Itching and Burning

Its anti-itch and anti-inflammatory properties calm irritated skin around the anus.

How to Use Witch Hazel for Hemorrhoid Relief

• Use alcohol-free witch hazel to avoid stinging.
• Apply with a cotton pad or soft wipe to the external anal area.
• Best used after bowel movements and before bed.
• Combine with warm sitz baths for added benefit.

Other Complementary Remedies

Witch hazel works well alongside:

• 🛁 Warm sitz baths
• 🥥 Coconut oil (moisturizing, anti-inflammatory)
• 🍃 Aloe vera gel
• 🌾 High-fiber diet and hydration to prevent recurrence

Avoid:

• Internal use 
• Using products with added alcohol, which can dry or irritate the skin

Safety and Side Effects

✅ Generally safe for external use
🚫 May irritate if used excessively or with alcohol-based products
🔄 Always do a patch test before full use
📞 Consult a doctor if symptoms persist beyond a week or if you experience severe bleeding

Conclusion

• When used properly, it can be a gentle, effective addition to your hemorrhoid relief toolkit — especially for mild to moderate symptoms.
• As always, consult your healthcare provider before starting any treatment — even natural ones — especially if you’re pregnant, have sensitive skin, or are experiencing severe or persistent symptoms

We’d Love to Hear from You!

One of the main reasons we are writing blogs is to build a trustworthy, research-backed database on natural remedies and supplements. We are also trying to understand which remedies truly work, which ones don’t, and what side effects people might be experiencing.

If you’ve ever used witch hazel (or know someone who has), we would love to hear your experience in the comment section below:

✅ Did it help you?

⚠️ Did you notice any side effects?

💊 What dosage or form (e.g., wipes, liquid, ointment) did you use?

Whether your feedback is brief or detailed, your contribution is valuable. It will help us compile real-life insights alongside the science, and will be especially helpful when we do a more comprehensive review or meta-analysis later on.

Thank you for being part of this community—and for helping us seek the truth about natural health remedies. 

References

1. Describes the use of witch hazel as an external treatment for hemorrhoids, inflammation, and skin irritation. https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-227/witch-hazel

2. Notes that witch hazel’s topical use for hemorrhoids, itching, and swelling is due to its natural astringent properties. https://pharmasave.com/health/natural-products/witch-hazel/

3. A chapter in a phytopharmacology reference discusses Hamamelis extracts as a source of tannins and flavonoids used in rectal inflammation and anal irritation. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/B9780128183090000174

4. Explores how tannins and phenolics found in witch hazel support tissue repair and anti-inflammatory activity, important for conditions like hemorrhoids. https://www.mdpi.com/1420-3049/30/13/2744

Acknowledgment: Blog prepared with assistance from ChatGPT by OpenAI.

Note: This blog is for informational purposes only. Consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement.