Witch Hazel (Hamamelis Virginiana) Water is produced from branches harvested in the autumn, which are cut to the ground, but resprout, producing a new harvest in a few years. Portable chippers allow for on-site processing. It is then taken to the factories for distillation in stainless-steel vats.
Witch Hazel Water is produced by steam distillation for one and a half days and filtration. Alcohol can be added as a preservative. In that case, the final product is called Witch hazel Distillate which contains 14% Alcohol.
Thanks to its astringent action, Hamamelis Virginiana water is used in many cosmetic applications such as deodorants, after-shave lotions, cloth wipes, soaps, creams, and toners. It can be diluted with water to make a facial astringent and soothe irritated skin.