Witch Hazel’s Spell

Photograph: Sharron R. McMillan

Witch Hazel Hamamelis virginiana

Deciduous large shrub with a dense cluster of stems from the base. Blooms January, wonderful scented yellow flowers which bloom before leaves.
Leaves are astringent, use topically to treat bruises, dermatitis, hemorrhoids, varicose veins.  Lotion is distilled from twigs.
Forked twigs are used as divining rods for water witching.
Means: a spell

Yellow flowers, their secrets tell,
witch hazel has now cast its spell –
pulled the sun above the trees,
scented every gentle breeze,
I wander the garden
dreaming of spring
witch hazel changes
everything.

©2016 Sharron R. McMillan