WITCHHAZEL Meaning and
Definition
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Witch hazel is a noun that refers to a small deciduous tree or shrub, scientifically known as Hamamelis virginiana, native to North America. It is a flowering plant belonging to the Hamamelidaceae family. The tree is characterized by its distinctive yellow flowers with slender, ribbon-like petals that bloom from late fall to early spring, often coinciding with the presence of its fruiting capsules.
In addition to its ornamental value, witch hazel possesses medicinal properties that have made it popular in traditional folk medicine. Extracts derived from the bark and leaves of the plant contain a high concentration of tannins, giving it astringent qualities. Witch hazel extract has long been used topically to treat various skin conditions, including sunburns, insect bites, acne, and eczema, as it is believed to reduce inflammation and soothe irritation.
The extract obtained from witch hazel is also commonly used as an ingredient in cosmetic and personal care products such as toners, cleansers, and even hemorrhoid creams due to its natural properties. It is often hailed for its ability to tighten pores, reduce redness, and control excess oil production.
Furthermore, witch hazel has been used in traditional Native American and Appalachian folk medicine for its alleged ability to relieve hemorrhoids, sore muscles, bruising, and even symptoms associated with varicose veins. However, it is important to note that while witch hazel has been widely used for its purported medicinal properties, scientific studies validating its effectiveness are still limited.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for WITCHHAZEL
- witch hazel
- qitchhazel
- aitchhazel
- sitchhazel
- eitchhazel
- 3itchhazel
- 2itchhazel
- wutchhazel
- wjtchhazel
- wktchhazel
- wotchhazel
- w9tchhazel
- w8tchhazel
- wirchhazel
- wifchhazel
- wigchhazel
- wiychhazel
- wi6chhazel
- wi5chhazel
- witxhhazel
Etymology of WITCHHAZEL
The word "witchhazel" is derived from a combination of two parts: "witch" and "hazel", each having its own distinct etymology.
1. Witch: The term "witch" dates back to Old English and originally referred to a practitioner of witchcraft or sorcery. It comes from the Old English word "wicca" or "wicce", meaning a male or female practitioner of witchcraft, respectively. The word later evolved to refer to someone who practices harmful magic or employs supernatural powers.
2. Hazel: The term "hazel" refers to the hazel tree, often associated with the plant Hamamelis virginiana—commonly known as witch hazel. The word "hazel" can be traced back to the Old English word "haesel", which referred to the hazel tree or its fruit.
Similar spelling words for WITCHHAZEL
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