Hamamelis virginica

Hamamelis virginica is a well-known homeopathic remedy that is also known simply as 'Hamamelis' and by the common name of the plant from which it is derived 'witch hazel'.

The homeopathic remedy hamamelis virginica is sometimes used in cases of acute minor bleeding, especially if the pain feels worse on contact (touch) to the affected area.

Other common uses of hamamelis virginica include:

• minor burns
• minor bleeding e.g. cuts, wounds and abrasions
• nosebleeds
• haemorrhage
• haemoptysis
• haemorrhoids ('piles')
• varicose veins
• swollen veins
• inflammation of the bladder
• heavy periods (menses)
• painful ovary or ovaries
• tender and / or rheumatic joints.

More about the substance used to prepare hamamelis virginica homeopathic remedy:

This is one of the many homeopathic remedies derived from plants. The hamamelis virginica (botanical name) plant is better known by its common name, witch hazel, and is also known by many other names, e.g. among different groups and in different places. The other names for this plant include snapping hazelnut, spotted alder, striped alder, pistachio, tobacco wood and winterbloom. It is a small deciduous tree that grows up to approx. 20 ft (6 m), occasionally taller. Although native to the eastern parts of the USA, witch hazel is now well-known in many parts of the world including Europe.

There are typically a dense cluster of stems at the base of this tree, which forms oval leaves and bright yellow flowers with characteristic long thin petals.

The homeopathic remedy is prepared using freshly chopped bark from twigs and the roots of hamamelis virginica.

Homeopathic preparations are usually supplied in either liquid or pill form. Regardless of the physical form in which the remedy is taken, its preparation will have involved a series of dilutions during which the original substance was repeatedly diluted and succussed (shaken) in a solvent such as water and/or alcohol.