CLAIM: Witch hazel can destroy the novel coronavirus on skin or surfaces.

There is no evidence that witch hazel destroys germs, including the novel coronavirus. In light of the shortages of hand sanitizer, some people are wondering if Other cleaning methods are much more effective for disinfecting surfaces and cleaning skin. Essential oils Despite containing phenols, and their popularity in home remedies for many uses (including some antibacterial,) there are no essential oils that have proven deadly to the coronavirus.

Witch hazel extracts contain antioxidant compounds that may protect against sunburn and aging from the sun. Witch hazel does not kill germs, including most viruses and bacteria. But will it actually kill germs?
Natural products like witch hazel rarely make for effective disinfectants, and will not protect you against the coronavirus.

As novel coronavirus (COVID-19) spreads, some people are making DIY hand sanitizer with witch hazel.

Some studies indicate that witch hazel may be beneficial in fighting certain types of viral infections. FALSE. There is insufficient research to say that witch hazel can kill bacteria or viruses, says Thomas A. Russo, MD, professor of medicine and chief of the Division of Infectious Diseases.. “With coronavirus, there’s absolutely no reason to use any sort of product on your skin other than regular soap and water, or if you have one of those hand alcohol based hand sanitizers,” Russo says. Experts explain why witch hazel will not stop the spread of viruses and bacteria. Wellness bloggers plump for things such as witch-hazel and aloe vera.

Witch hazel can be used when creating DIY hand sanitizer, but it isn't an effective disinfectant on it's own.

One test-tube study, for example, found that the tannins in witch hazel exhibited antiviral effects against both influenza A and human papillomavirus (HPV).

Witch hazel is mainly used as an astringent (basically, it does not affect things as small as the coronavirus). Does witch hazel kill the coronavirus? But the evidence is thin on its use for other conditions.