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Witch Hazel Glycerite Liquid Extract

Also known as: Witch Hazel, Witch Hazel Glycerite Liquid Extract, Hamamelis virginiana

Overview

Witch Hazel, derived from the leaves and bark of *Hamamelis virginiana*, is a botanical extract widely recognized for its astringent, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. The glycerite liquid extract is a specific preparation where witch hazel is extracted in glycerin, primarily intended for topical application. It is traditionally used in skincare for various conditions, including skin inflammation, minor wounds, and hemorrhoids, and as a cosmetic ingredient to enhance skin barrier function. While research on witch hazel is moderately mature, encompassing in vitro, ex vivo, and clinical studies, specific systematic reviews or meta-analyses on glycerite liquid extracts are limited. The quality of evidence varies, with some well-controlled studies alongside smaller or preliminary trials. Its primary applications leverage its ability to soothe irritated skin, protect against oxidative damage, and improve the skin's natural barrier.

Benefits

Witch hazel offers several evidence-based benefits, primarily for topical applications. It exhibits significant anti-inflammatory effects, with studies showing a reduction in pro-inflammatory cytokines like IL-6 and IL-8 in ex vivo skin models, making it beneficial for chronic skin inflammation. Its potent antioxidant properties are demonstrated by a decrease in UV-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) markers, protecting the skin from oxidative damage. Furthermore, witch hazel has been shown to improve skin barrier function by enhancing markers such as loricrin and transglutaminase-1. Beyond topical uses, in vitro studies suggest antiproliferative and anticancer potential, particularly from polyphenolic fractions rich in gallate esters, which inhibited proliferation and induced apoptosis in human colon cancer cell lines. Preliminary in vitro research also indicates a possible prebiotic effect by supporting the growth of beneficial lactic acid bacteria. While topical benefits are supported by moderate quality clinical evidence, systemic benefits require further clinical validation.

How it works

The therapeutic actions of witch hazel are primarily attributed to its rich content of polyphenolic compounds, including gallate esters and proanthocyanidins. These compounds exert antioxidant effects by scavenging free radicals and reducing oxidative stress. Its anti-inflammatory properties are mediated through the downregulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as IL-6 and IL-8, and by modulating skin barrier proteins, thereby improving skin integrity. The antiproliferative effects observed in cancer cells involve inducing cell cycle arrest at the S phase and promoting apoptosis, with the degree of galloylation in its polyphenols playing a key role. When applied topically, the glycerite extract facilitates the delivery of these active compounds into the skin, ensuring localized action while maintaining good tolerability.

Side effects

Witch hazel extracts are generally well tolerated when applied topically, with animal studies indicating a high no-observed-adverse-effect-level (NOAEL > 300 mg/kg). Human dermatologic trials have not reported serious adverse effects, with only mild erythema reduction observed without significant toxicity. However, some cases of asymptomatic liver enzyme elevation have been reported with oral herbal preparations, suggesting caution and monitoring if used systemically. Animal studies at tested doses have shown no significant hematological or organ toxicity. For topical use, no major drug interactions or contraindications have been documented. Due to limited data, caution is advised regarding systemic use, and it is not recommended without professional medical guidance. Individuals with very sensitive skin should perform a patch test before widespread application, although it is generally considered safe for sensitive skin.

Dosage

Specific dosing for witch hazel glycerite liquid extracts is not standardized, as it is primarily used topically. Topical formulations typically incorporate witch hazel extract at concentrations ranging from 5% to 20%. In clinical trials for skin conditions, application frequency commonly involves twice-daily use. For instance, studies on skin inflammation and barrier improvement have utilized this frequency. Oral dosing is less common and not well-defined due to insufficient safety and efficacy data for systemic use. Therefore, systemic administration is not recommended. When using topical products, always follow the manufacturer's instructions or consult with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance, especially for specific skin conditions.

FAQs

Is witch hazel glycerite safe for sensitive skin?

Generally, yes. Witch hazel glycerite is well tolerated and may improve skin barrier function. However, patch testing is recommended for individuals with very sensitive skin to ensure no adverse reaction.

How quickly does it work?

Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects can typically be observed within days to weeks of consistent topical use, depending on the individual and the condition being treated.

Can it be used for hemorrhoids?

Traditional use supports the application of witch hazel for hemorrhoids due to its astringent properties. However, high-quality randomized controlled trials specifically for this indication are currently lacking.

Does it have systemic anticancer effects?

In vitro studies show promising results regarding witch hazel's potential anticancer effects on cell lines. However, these are preliminary findings, and clinical evidence for systemic anticancer effects in humans is currently lacking.

Research Sources

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11845955/ – This ex vivo study on human skin explants demonstrated that a novel witch hazel formula significantly reduced pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, IL-8), improved skin barrier markers, and decreased UV-induced reactive oxygen species, indicating strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties relevant for skin health.
https://www.science.gov/topicpages/w/witch+hazel+hamamelis – This in vitro study investigated the effects of galloylated witch hazel fractions on human colon cancer cell lines (HT29, HCT116). It found that these fractions inhibited cell proliferation, induced apoptosis, and scavenged radicals, suggesting potential antiproliferative and anticancer activities, though clinical relevance requires further investigation.
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/nutrition/articles/10.3389/fnut.2022.874666/full – This preliminary in vitro study explored the potential prebiotic effects of witch hazel extracts. It indicated that these extracts might support the growth of beneficial lactic acid bacteria strains, suggesting a possible role in gut health, though further research is needed to confirm this in vivo.
https://www.cir-safety.org/sites/default/files/Witch%20Hazel.pdf – This safety assessment report for witch hazel extracts, including animal studies, found a high no-observed-adverse-effect-level (NOAEL > 300 mg/kg). It concluded that witch hazel extracts are generally well tolerated topically and showed no significant hematological or organ toxicity at tested doses, supporting its safety profile for cosmetic use.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK92761/ – This clinical trial, part of a broader review on herbal dermatology, involved 31 adult patients with atopic dermatitis. It reported that witch hazel extract reduced erythema and itching with no serious adverse effects over a one-year follow-up, providing moderate quality clinical evidence for its topical efficacy in inflammatory skin conditions.