Hamamelis virginiana, commonly known as witch hazel, is a deciduous shrub native to North America. It typically grows between 10 to 15 feet tall and features yellow, ribbon-like flowers that bloom in late fall to early winter. The leaves are broad and oval-shaped, turning yellow in autumn. Witch hazel is well-known for its medicinal properties, particularly its astringent qualities. The bark and twigs are often distilled to produce witch hazel extract, which is used in various skincare products and remedies for minor skin irritations, bruises, and inflammation.