Witch Hazel Compress Recipe
A witch hazel compress is an effective way to harness its astringent properties to tighten pores, strengthen veins, and support troubled skin. Whether applied hot or cold, a witch hazel compress helps increase blood flow and bring comfort to sore or injured areas.
Equipment
- Large covered pot
- Cotton cloth
Ingredients
- 1 cup extract of chopped witch hazel bark, twigs, leaves and/or green buds
- 1 quart water
- 1 folded cotton cloth
Directions
- Take any of the woody plant material, bring to a boil, then simmer for 20 minutes, covered.
- Turn off heat and add the tender leaves/buds and keep covered. Let steep for an hour or more.
- Strain and bring the witch hazel extract back up to a very warm temperature but do not boil.
- Soak the cotton in the infusion/decoction, fold and ring out over the pot so you can reuse that liquid. Make it as hot as you can comfortably tolerate.
- Apply compress to the area of concern. Cover the compress with another towel (and hot water bottle if you have it).
- Leave compress on for five minutes then consecutively repeat so that the heat can work along with the witch hazel medicine.
- Do this at least three times in a row, and, depending on the severity of the issue, even several times a day.