Which shrub's bark and leaves are distilled to produce an astringent skin toner? Witch hazel is the answer.
The plant most commonly meant is Hamamelis virginiana, also called American or common witch-hazel. It is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to eastern North America. Its bark and leaves have long been used in extracts and preparations applied to irritated skin, minor inflammation, insect bites, and other cosmetic or medicinal purposes.
Witch-hazel products are often called hamamelis water. Commercial preparations may be made by distilling bark, leaves, or twigs, frequently with alcohol and water. That process matters: tannins are abundant in the plant material but may be largely absent from a distilled product, so different bottles can have quite different chemistry and effects.
The name can cause two mix-ups. Witch-hazel is not a true hazel, genus Corylus, and the “witch” name is linked to older European and American traditions involving forked branches and divining rods. Also, “astringent” describes a tightening or drying sensation, not proof that every skincare claim has strong clinical evidence.