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 to be quite tasty. However, not all varieties of witch hazel actually produce fruit.
The fruits of the witch hazel are basically edible
Are the fruits of the witch hazel something special?
The fruits of the witch hazel are very special, but this is less due to their taste than to their properties. Like the plant itself, the woody capsule fruit is reminiscent of hazelnuts. Botanically, however, it is not related to it at all. Two black seeds are inside each capsule.
When these seeds are ripe, the pod bursts open, throwing the seeds many meters away from the mother plant. This is how the witch hazel spreads all by itself. However, this also makes collecting the seeds a bit difficult. Remove the capsules from the plant a short time before seed maturity if you plan to sow.
Is witch hazel a crop?
You can count the Virginian witch hazel (lat. Hamamelis virginiana) among the useful plants. 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 cream or ointment, it relieves itching or helps to heal wounds, 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 contained tannins have an astringent (contracting) effect. In addition, witch hazel has an anti-inflammatory, calming and haemostatic effect. With the witch hazel tea you can wash inflamed areas of the skin or apply compresses and poultices. In the event of diarrhea or inflammation of the mucous membranes in the gastrointestinal tract, the tea can also be drunk in consultation with the doctor treating you.
the benefits of witch hazel:
- Hamamelis water for skin refreshment and in cosmetic products
- Cream or ointment to heal wounds and relieve 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
tips
If you would like to use witch hazel for your health, then use ready-made products or prepare a tea, especially for external use.