Yes, witch hazel has antibacterial properties. When applied directly to the skin, witch hazel might help fight bacteria. Witch hazel contains many compounds with anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, including gallic acid and tannins, which may have far-reaching benefits for health. Witch hazel is also used as an astringent to tighten the skin and is included in some medications to give those products the ability to slow down or stop bleeding. Those medications are used for treating insect bites, stings, teething, hemorrhoids, itching, irritations, and minor pain. However, it is important to note that most witch hazel extract available to consumers is made via an alcohol distillation method, which can be irritating to the skin. Therefore, it is recommended to use witch hazel safely and with minimal risk of adverse side effects.