Witch Hazel

look it up

post what you learned

then you will get some support

We can't do your homework for you.

Google "witch hazel mechanism of action"

It's there, I saw it!

Good luck sometimes these things are elusive.

So, think a bit further. You got what witch hazel does, the end result, but how does it do this? What's the body's physiological response to get relief?

This may get you started but I know there's more information available on other sites

http://www.globalherbalsupplies.com/herb_information/witch_hazel.htm

Drugs.com is where I found the info you are looking for

Hamamelis virginiana, or Witch Hazel, is an extract of the bark of the tree, yielding high amounts of tannins, alkaloids, and essential oils. The tannin content makes it a natural astringent, able to significantly decrease mucous membrane proliferation by parietal cells and also serves as an effective antimicrobial. Extract of Hamamelis have been used traditionally and clinically to decrease hemorrhoid size; this action is attributed to its noted vasoconstrictive effect.

(Hehehee...now you just have to go searching for my journal sources!) :)

Hope this Helps

RN, RH Medical Herbalist! woot!