The following notes refer to the related species H. virginiana. Native American tribes used decoctions of the bark of Hamamelis virginiana to reduce swellings and bruises. Colonists took notice and it was listed in the United States Pharmacopoeia from 1860 onwards. It was also thought to have supernatural properties and the forked branches were used as divining rods in the search for water and gold. Distilled witch hazel is available for external use on bruises and sprains. The tincture is much stronger and should be used only under the guidance of a qualified practitioner. Witch hazel extract is a constituent of proprietary haemorrhoid ointments and other pharmaceutical preparations.

The bark and leaves are the source of witch hazel for bruises, haemorrhoids, varicose veins, and other skin conditions, although commercially H. virginiana is the usual source. It is produced by stem distillation of the twigs.