WITCH HAZEL
                                    ===========


                                    CULTIVATION:
     Witch  hazel  is  a small perennial tree  or  spreading shrub. It grows to
     about  5 feet in height, and has  bright yellow spidery flowers. The seeds
     are eatable and have been compared to hazelnuts.

     Witch  hazel  grows from seeds or  twig cuttings. Cuttings general produce
     roots in about 10 weeks. It prefers sunny or partial shady locations, with
     moist,  lime  free  soil. Seeds should  be  refrigerated for several month
     before planting to encourage germination.

     Harvest the leaves and twigs anytime and dry.



                   CULINARY USES: ============== NO CULINARY USES


                                   MEDICAL  USES:
     Witch  hazel lotion reduces minor swelling and irritation caused by insect
     bites, bruises, sunburn, windburn, sprain, scratches, and abrasion.

     To  soothe  inflammation, add 1 teaspoon  of  the granulated leaves and/or
     bark  to a cup of boiling water. Then let the liquid cool and apply to the
     problem  area. To treat vaginal infection  add an infusion from the leaves
     to a bath.

     When  incorporated  into  pads and  ointments  with other ingredients like
     glycerin,  witch  hazel is said to  help  shrink external hemorrhoids. For
     itchy  bottom  gently  pad the anal  area  clean with witch hazel-moisterd
     cotton  balls after a bowl movement. This can provide a measure of relieve
     whether  hemorrhoids  are  involved  or not.  You  can  also mix an liquid
     extract  of  witch  hazel with petroleum  jelly  and  apply it directly to
     hemorrhoids.

     For  a poison ivy rash make a thick  past of backing soda and witch hazel.
     About the same consistency as cold cream or cream cheese. Spread this over
     the blister. While it dries it will dry blister.


                                      WARNING:
     Distilled witch hazel must not be confused with the tincture made from the
     bark or leaves, the latter may be extremely astringent.


                                  COSMETIC  USES:
     One of the best skin astringent. It is also useful in hair rinse, dandruff
     rinse,  and  herbal  powder. Witch hazel  is  easily  found in health food
     stores  and  drug stores. The leading use  of  witch hazel is to clean the
     skin and to remove makeup. Can be used as a shaving lotion. Or use it as a
     face splash for oily skin and to control minor pimple formation. Use witch
     hazel compresses for relieve of sore, red strained or inflamed eyes.