Is the $250 test the same as USP monograph testing?
No. Witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana distillate) does not fit the standard $250 identity, purity and quantity test, so it is tested to the USP Witch Hazel monograph. Pricing is quoted.
Is USP witch hazel the same as witch hazel extract?
No. USP witch hazel is a clear distillate from the twigs, made with added alcohol. Extracts made by soaking bark or leaves contain tannins, and the monograph limits tannins in the distillate.
How is witch hazel tested?
The distillate is mostly water, alcohol and small amounts of volatile plant compounds. The tests measure the alcohol content and nonvolatile residue, and a tannin check by HPLC can be quoted.