The fruits of the easy-care witch hazel are definitely edible. However, they only play a minor role in this plant, although they are considered quite tasty. However, not all varieties of witch hazel actually produce fruit.
Are witch hazel fruits edible?
The fruits of the witch hazel are edible and considered tasty, but play a minor role. The plant is known as a medicinal and useful plant and is used in medicine and cosmetics, for example to relieve itching and refresh the skin.
Are the fruits of the witch hazel something special?
The fruits of the witch hazel are very special, but that is less due to their taste than to their properties. The woody capsule fruit, like the plant itself, is somewhat reminiscent of the hazelnut. But it is not botanically related to it at all. Two black seeds are located inside each capsule.
If these seeds are ripe, the capsule bursts open and throws the seeds many meters away from the mother plant. So the witch hazel spreads further and further on its own. However, this also makes collecting the seeds a bit difficult. If you plan to sow, remove the capsules from the plant a short time before the seeds ripen.
Is witch hazel a useful plant?
You can definitely count the Virginian witch hazel (Latin: Hamamelis virginiana) as a useful plant. It is used in medicine and also for cosmetic products. As a homeopathic remedy, it supports the treatment of skin diseases. In the form of a cream or ointment it relieves itching or helps wound healing and as witch hazel water it has a very refreshing effect on irritated skin after a shave.
You can make a tea from the leaves and bark. The tannins it contains have an astringent (contracting) effect. Witch hazel also has anti-inflammatory, calming and hemostatic effects. You can use witch hazel tea to wash inflamed areas of skin or apply compresses and compresses. If you have diarrhea or inflammation of the mucous membranes in the gastrointestinal tract, the tea can also be drunk in consultation with your doctor.
the benefits of witch hazel:
- Hamamelis water for skin refreshment and in cosmetic products
- Cream or ointment for wound healing and relieving itching
- as a homeopathic remedy for neurodermatitis, eczema, hemorrhoids, etc.
- as a tea for diarrhea or inflammation of the mucous membranes in the gastrointestinal tract
Tip
If you would like to use witch hazel for your he alth, then use ready-made products or prepare a tea, especially for external use.
