Witch-hazel. North America. N. 0. Eamamelacea. Characteristics. The dried bark and dried leaves are in the 1890 add. to B. P.; the fresh aromatic green twigs are also used; the leaves are in U.S.A. Pharm. The dried bark is thin, brown, with adherent outer bark, odourless and slightly astringent. The dried leaves are oval, smooth, with prominent under veins, tea-like odour and astringent bitter taste. Its styptic properties come from a volatile oleo-resin, combined with Gallic acid.

Therapeutics. Strong stimulant astringent in external and internal haemorrhage, really often very valuable. Also in diarrhoea and mucous discharges, and as a gargle for sore mouth. Dose, tincture - B. P. 1890, add. - (1 to 10 proof spirit), 5 to 60 minims several times a day; distilled extract, 30 minims; fluid extract, 5 drops to 1/2 fluid drachm: the latter in even larger doses several times a day, most efficient in haemoptysis: the solid extract, in suppositories of 1/4 grain, worth a trial in haemorrhoids.