Witch Hazel Soothes minor skin injuries, insect bites, blemishes, skin irritations and inflammations. Soothes minor burns and sunburn. Helps ease mucus membrane irritations Herbalists recommend using it as a gargle or mouth wash for sore throats and gums. Helps ease bruising - ice cubes made from witch hazel are particularly soothing. Eases discomfort from varicose veins and hemorrhoids. Helps stop bleeding of minor wounds. How Witch Hazel Works: The leaves and bark of Witch Hazel contain a high proportion of an astringent called tannin. This makes it effective for soothing minor irritations and other problems of the skin and mucus membranes.