Corylus
Etymology
The genus name Corylus comes from the Latin Corolus, possibly derived from the Greek Korus meaning “helmet,” referring to the fringed husks around the hazelnut. The species name avellana may refer to Avella, a town in Campania (Italy) famous for its hazelnuts, or to the Gaulish word aballo, meaning “apple.”
Habitat and Distribution
The hazelnut tree originates from Europe, Asia Minor, and Algeria. It’s a hardy shrub that grows both isolated and in clusters. Found in coppices, edges, and mixed forests, it grows up to 1700 m above sea level, throughout Switzerland except in the Upper Engadine. Prefers rich, well-drained soils.
Ecological Value
Hazel is monoecious (having male and female flowers on the same plant). The yellow male catkins appear in late winter, while female flowers are small red-tipped buds. This early bloom offers rare pollen to bees and insects in February-March.Leaves appear in May and form dense foliage that shelters small animals and provides food through its nuts. The nuts mature in September and are a favorite of squirrels and other rodents. Hazel wood is easy to shape, flexible, and strong. It was traditionally used in basketry, coopering, walking sticks, and dowsing rods.
Culinary and Medicinal Value
Hazelnuts have been consumed since ancient times – fossilized remains date back over 10,000 years.
In phytotherapy, the entire plant can be used: leaves (infusion), catkins, bark (decoction), and the fruit itself. Hazelnuts are one of the richest nuts in omega-3 fatty acids. The oil is a gentle dewormer for children.They’re rich in vitamin E, fiber, copper, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, and B vitamins.The leaves have vasoconstrictive and anti-inflammatory properties, helpful for varicose veins, hemorrhoids, and vein-related issues. Their astringency can help with diarrhea.Externally, bark is used to relieve hemorrhoids and help heal varicose ulcers.The catkins support circulation, the respiratory system, detoxification, and sweating.
Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Corylus_avellana
https://www.lesproduitsnaturels.com/plante-noisetier-103.htm
https://www.passeportsante.net/fr/Solutions/HerbierMedicinal/Plante.aspx?doc=noisetier_hm