Why Witch Hazel Is Every Mama’s Postpartum Bestie
When it comes to postpartum recovery, natural remedies are worth their weight in gold. And one of the most loved, most trusted healers? Witch hazel. This humble plant extract has been used for centuries to calm swelling, soothe tender bits, and support perineal care.
At Viva La Vulva, we love witch hazel so much we bottle it up as our Good Witch Hazel tincture, distilled right here in New Zealand, in small batches, for the specific purpose of postpartum care. Unlike generic witch hazel you’ll find in stores, ours is made with mamas in mind, and blended into many of our best-selling products (think Healing Perineal Spray, Padsicle Gel, Postpartum Bath Soak…).
Because when something works this well, we make sure you’ve got it in every form.
What Is Witch Hazel (and Why Postpartum Mums Love It)?
Witch hazel is a plant-based extract packed with natural anti-inflammatory and cooling properties. For postpartum mums, that means:
-
Relief for swollen, tender perineums
-
Comfort for stitches or tears
-
Soothing care for haemorrhoids
Midwives across NZ often recommend witch hazel for perineal care, because it supports healing while keeping things clean and comfortable.
Witch Hazel for Perineal Care
Perineal healing after birth can be a tender journey. Witch hazel offers cooling, hygienic relief that makes bathroom trips less daunting and helps you feel a little more like yourself again. That’s why it’s one of the most common postpartum recovery recommendations in New Zealand.
- Witch Hazel for Haemorrhoids
It’s not talked about enough, but postpartum haemorrhoids are real, and they hurt. Witch hazel’s natural cooling and anti-inflammatory properties can help soothe discomfort and soothe swelling, making recovery a little easier.
Why Kiwi Mums Choose Our Good Witch Hazel
Not all witch hazel is created equal. Here’s why our NZ-made tincture stands out:
-
Distilled in New Zealand - made locally in small batches, not imported.
-
Postpartum-specific - created for perineal care and recovery, not just a general pharmacy product.
-
Cooling comfort - fast relief for swelling and tenderness.
-
Multi-use magic - works for perineal care, haemorrhoids, or in a bath soak.
-
Simple + natural - plant-based, no nasties.
How to Use Witch Hazel Tincture
- Add 3–5 drops into your Viva La Vulva Peri Wash Bottle filled with boiled then cooled water, shake gently, and use for rinsing after peeing when toilet paper feels uncomfortable.
- Squeeze 3–5 drops directly onto a pad, then freeze for an easy DIY padsicle with extra cooling comfort.
- Add a few drops into a warm bath soak or sitz bath for soothing relaxation.
It is simple to use and safe for daily postpartum routines.
Pair It with Other Viva La Vulva Essentials
Witch hazel spray is powerful on its own but even more effective when paired with other postpartum essentials:
-
Peri Bottle for gentle cleansing.
-
Healing Perineal Spray for cooling support.
-
Padsicle Gel for instant comfort.
-
Postpartum Healing Bath Soak for a restorative recovery ritual.
Free Resources for Recovery
Recovery is about knowledge as well as products. Explore our free downloads:
-
Hospital Bag Checklist so you do not forget essentials.
-
Perineal Massage Guide with evidence-informed advice.
-
Postpartum Affirmation Cards for emotional wellbeing.
Real Stories from New Zealand Mums
“Witch hazel spray was my lifesaver. It made sitting, walking, and moving around so much easier during recovery.” - Anna, Wellington
“My midwife recommended witch hazel, and I am so glad she did. The spray version was so easy to use and gave me instant relief.” - Maia, Christchurch
When to Get Professional Help
Witch hazel spray is safe and effective for comfort, but if you notice:
-
Severe or ongoing pain
-
Heavy or unusual bleeding
-
Signs of infection such as fever or swelling
Contact your midwife, GP, or LMC.
More information: Health NZ: Caring for your perineum.
Wrapping it Up
Good Witch Hazel is a traditional remedy trusted by generations of Kiwi mums and still one of the best natural tools for postpartum recovery today. Add it to your Hospital Bag Bundle and experience its natural, cooling relief from day one.
Disclaimer: These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Please consult with a physician or other healthcare professional regarding any medical or health-related diagnosis or treatment options. These products are safe to use while pregnant and lactating, but please consult with your health care professional before using any herbal products.
