Witch Hazel (Hamamelis Virginiana) is a bush with several trunks that arise from one root, which makes it very similar to the hazelnut tree. It has alternate, oval leaves; yellow flowers in groups of three or four; the fruit is a capsule similar to hazelnut. It belongs to the Hamamelidaceae family.
A rich botanical extract, Witch Hazel is a powerful antioxidant and anti-acne. The extract act as a barrier, guarding the skin against free radical damage and irritants that enter skin cells and result in sensitivity and pigmentation problems.
A potent source of skin-nourishing tannins, it also works to shrink and minimize pores. Biologically active contents include:
- Tannins: gallic acid and galitanins
- Caffeic acid
- Flavonoids: quercitine and kaempferol
- Flavonic heterosids (mircetol, quercetol, and kenferol)
- Pectins
- Mucilages
- Mineral salts
- Essential oil with a very complex composition
- Resins
- Coline
- Phenolic compounds.
Witch hazel extract speeds up the wound, cut, and abrasion treatment. It is suitable for oily skin and hair products. Hamamelis Virginiana extract is an active natural ingredient for cleansing, facial tonics, and hair lotion formulas.