Our Story
From Apothecary Roots to Today
The Legacy of
Dr. Frederick Humphreys
Born in 1816
Frederick Humphreys was born on March 11, 1816, in Marcellus, New York, into a family of early American settlers. He would go on to shape the future of homeopathic medicine in ways that still influence natural healing today (not bad for a 19th-century innovator).
The Art of Medicine
Inspired by his father, Dr. Erastus Humphreys, Frederick pursued the art and science of medicine. His true passion emerged when he discovered homeopathy, studying under leading experts who recognized his talent and commitment to natural healing. That journey led him to witch hazel—a botanical powerhouse he began using in many of his formulations (yes, the same Humphreys witch hazel we still love today).
Healing Power
Frederick’s groundbreaking work led to the development of “homeopathic combinations” or “specifics,” each carefully numbered for easy reference. This innovative system made natural remedies more accessible to pharmacists and patients alike—a legacy we still honor today by using ingredients that deliver real skin benefits in our formulas.
Rooted in Apothecary Wisdom
Designed for Today’s Skincare Needs
Born behind the counter of Dr. Humphreys’ apothecary, our formulas have been crafted with care and relied upon as skincare solutions for over 175 years. Because we’ve harvested and distilled genuine witch hazel since our start generations ago, we’re confident you get the purest, most effective form of witch hazel today.
Trusted Since 1854
Our formulas worked back then, and they still work now. Natural wisdom never goes out of style.
Family-Owned
Humphreys remains proudly family-owned and independent. Since 1973, the Jackowitz family has been dedicated to crafting genuine witch hazel products with integrity, honoring Dr. Humphreys’ legacy of nature-powered skincare. What began with Ed and Carol Jackowitz making witch hazel in old copper stills and labeling bottles by hand has grown into a state-of-the-art facility producing drug-quality witch hazel, now led by their sons Bryan and Kevin. Their commitment extends beyond skincare, with strong community involvement and generous donations, including hand sanitizer produced and donated during the height of COVID-19. At Humphreys, our products are everything that you’d expect from this tried and true brand – natural, organic, local and native. Doing things the right way is more than tradition—it’s a family value.
USA-Made Witch Hazel