By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 19, 2024
10 Best Herbal Creams For Dark Circles
Herbal creams for dark circles are topical treatments made from natural herbs and ingredients that help to reduce the appearance of dark circles under the eyes.
These creams typically contain ingredients such as aloe vera, chamomile, and peppermint, which help to soothe and calm the skin, reducing puffiness and discoloration. Examples of herbal creams that help with dark circles include creams containing cucumber, rosehip, and green tea extracts.
By using these creams, individuals can improve their appearance and feel more confident, leading to an overall improvement in their quality of life.
The following article describes in detail the most important creams for dark circles, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Ginkgo biloba
- 2. Aloe vera
- 3. Camellia sinensis
- 4. Mentha x piperita
- 5. Lavandula angustifolia
- 6. Foeniculum vulgare
- 7. Calendula officinalis
- 8. Cinnamomum verum
- 9. Vitis vinifera
- 10. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for dark circles?
- What ailments similar to dark circles are treated with herbal creams?
1. Ginkgo biloba
Ginkgo biloba, also known as maidenhair tree, creams helps with dark circles because of its unique antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
The active compounds in Ginkgo biloba, including flavonoids and terpenoids, improve blood circulation and reduce puffiness. This helps to minimize the appearance of dark circles by increasing oxygen delivery to the skin and reducing water retention.
As a result, Ginkgo biloba creams can provide a more even and radiant complexion, reducing the appearance of dark circles and promoting a brighter, healthier-looking under-eye area.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba creams that help with dark circles.
- Flavonoids: These plant compounds help reduce inflammation and improve circulation, which can decrease the appearance of dark circles under the eyes.
- Terpenoids: Terpenoids in Ginkgo biloba creams may help reduce puffiness and swelling by improving lymphatic drainage and circulation, thus reducing the visibility of dark circles.
- Bilobalide: Bilobalide, a triterpenoid saponin, may help improve blood vessel function and reduce oxidative stress, leading to a reduction in the appearance of dark circles under the eyes.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make creams for dark circles.
- Leaves: The leaves of Ginkgo biloba are rich in flavonoids and terpenoids, which help to improve circulation and reduce puffiness.
- Seeds: Ginkgo biloba seeds are a good source of ginkgolic acid, which has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce dark circle appearance.
- Barks: The barks of Ginkgo biloba contain flavonoids and terpenoids, which can help to improve circulation and reduce the appearance of dark circles.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for dark circles.
- Weigh 20 grams of ginkgo biloba extract powder and place it in a mixing bowl.
- Gradually add 2 grams of beeswax and 2 grams of candelilla wax to the bowl.
- Add 10 milliliters of sweet almond oil and 5 milliliters of jojoba oil to the mixture.
- Heat the mixture in a double boiler at 160 degrees fahrenheit for 15 minutes.
- Pour the mixture into a sterile container and let it cool before use.
2. Aloe vera
Aloe vera, also known as aloe, creams helps with dark circles because of its soothing and hydrating properties.
The gel inside aloe vera contains antioxidants and vitamins that help to reduce puffiness and discoloration. It also contains anti-inflammatory compounds that calm the delicate skin under the eyes, reducing the appearance of dark circles.
Additionally, aloe vera creams can help to improve blood circulation, which can also contribute to a more even-toned and radiant complexion, ultimately reducing the appearance of dark circles.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera creams that help with dark circles.
- Vitamins and minerals: These nutrients help improve blood circulation, reduce inflammation, and promote collagen production, all of which can contribute to a reduction in the appearance of dark circles under the eyes.
- Aloin: A naturally occurring anthraquinone glycoside, Aloin has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help reduce puffiness and discoloration under the eyes, thereby minimizing the appearance of dark circles.
- Polysaccharides: These complex sugars help to improve skin elasticity and firmness, which can reduce the visibility of dark circles by giving the under-eye area a smoother, more even appearance.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make creams for dark circles.
- Leaves: The gel extracted from Aloe vera leaves is used to reduce puffiness and inflammation around the eyes, helping to diminish the appearance of dark circles.
- Gel from leaves: The soothing properties of Aloe vera's leaf gel help to calm and reduce the discoloration caused by dark circles, providing a more even-toned under-eye area.
- Juice from leaves: The juice extracted from Aloe vera leaves is used to combat the dark circles by providing hydration and reducing the visibility of the discoloration caused by them.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for dark circles.
- Gather 2 cups of aloe vera gel and 1/2 cup of shea butter for the base of the cream.
- Melt 1/4 cup of beeswax in a double boiler over low heat for 10 minutes.
- Combine the melted beeswax with 1/2 cup of coconut oil and 1/4 cup of olive oil.
- Add 2 tablespoons of vitamin e oil and 2 teaspoons of essential oil to the mixture.
- Pour the mixture into a glass jar and refrigerate for 30 minutes before use.
3. Camellia sinensis
Camellia sinensis, also known as tea, creams helps with dark circles because it contains high levels of antioxidants and flavonoids.
These compounds help to reduce inflammation and improve circulation, which can help to minimize the appearance of dark circles. The anti-inflammatory properties also help to reduce puffiness, allowing for a more even and radiant complexion. Additionally, Camellia sinensis creams have been shown to improve skin elasticity, giving the skin a smoother and more youthful appearance.
This results in a reduction of dark circles and a more refreshed look.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Camellia sinensis creams that help with dark circles.
- Catechins: Catechins, particularly epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), help reduce dark circles by fighting oxidative stress and inflammation in the skin, which can contribute to the appearance of dark circles.
- Quercetin: Quercetin, a flavonoid, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help reduce puffiness and darkening of the skin under the eyes by minimizing inflammation and oxidative damage.
- Gallic acid: Gallic acid, a polyphenolic acid, has been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce the appearance of dark circles by protecting the skin from oxidative stress and inflammation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of tea used to make creams for dark circles.
- Leaves: Rich in antioxidants and flavonoids, helping to reduce inflammation and improve skin texture.
- Flowers: Contain antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties that soothe and calm the skin, reducing puffiness and discoloration.
- Seeds: High in essential fatty acids and antioxidants, providing moisturizing and protective benefits to the skin.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tea for dark circles.
- Steep 1 tablespoon of camellia sinensis leaves in 1 cup of boiling water for 3 to 5 minutes.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or fine mesh sieve into a clean bowl immediately.
- Combine 1/2 cup of the cooled camellia sinensis liquid with 1/2 cup of distilled water and 2 tablespoons of glycerin.
- Whisk 2 tablespoons of beeswax and 2 tablespoons of shea butter into the camellia sinensis mixture slowly.
- Pour the camellia sinensis cream mixture into small glass jars and refrigerate for 30 minutes to set.
4. Mentha x piperita
Mentha x piperita, also known as peppermint, creams helps with dark circles because of its unique combination of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The menthol in peppermint cream cools and soothes the skin, reducing puffiness and congestion that can cause dark circles. Additionally, the herbal extract helps to improve circulation and boost collagen production, which can help to reduce the appearance of dark circles and give the skin a brighter, more even tone.
This results in a more rested and refreshed appearance.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita creams that help with dark circles.
- Menthol: Helps to reduce puffiness and inflammation under the eyes, which contributes to the appearance of dark circles.
- Rosmarinic acid: Exhibits antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce the appearance of dark circles by protecting the delicate skin under the eyes from damage and promoting circulation.
- Linalool: Has a calming effect on the skin, reducing inflammation and promoting relaxation, which can help to alleviate puffiness and dark discoloration under the eyes.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make creams for dark circles.
- Leaves: Mentha x piperita leaves are used to make creams for dark circles due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Roots: Mentha x piperita roots are used to make creams for dark circles due to their ability to improve circulation and reduce puffiness.
- Leaves: Mentha x piperita leaves are also used to make creams for dark circles due to their ability to reduce inflammation and promote skin health.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for dark circles.
- Harvest 1/4 cup of fresh mentha x piperita leaves and flowers by cutting them with scissors during early morning hours.
- Steep 2 tablespoons of the harvested leaves and flowers in 8 ounces of distilled water for 5-7 minutes.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass bowl.
- Mix 2 tablespoons of beeswax and 2 tablespoons of coconut oil in a small saucepan over low heat for 10 minutes.
- Combine the infused liquid with 2 tablespoons of shea butter and the melted beeswax mixture in a separate bowl.
5. Lavandula angustifolia
Lavandula angustifolia, also known as English lavender, creams helps with dark circles because of its ability to reduce puffiness and inflammation.
The anti-inflammatory properties of lavender oil help to calm the skin, decreasing the appearance of dark circles. Additionally, the soothing and relaxing properties of lavender oil promote better sleep, which is essential for reducing dark circles caused by fatigue.
The cooling sensation of lavender creams also helps to constrict blood vessels, further reducing the appearance of dark circles.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia creams that help with dark circles.
- Linalool: As a terpene, linalool helps reduce puffiness and inflammation around the eyes, thereby minimizing the appearance of dark circles.
- Lavandulol: This terpene has a cooling effect that can help constrict blood vessels and reduce the discoloration of the skin under the eyes, making it less noticeable.
- Luteolin: A flavonoid, luteolin acts as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, which helps reduce the oxidative stress and inflammation that contribute to the formation of dark circles.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make creams for dark circles.
- Flowers: They are commonly used due to their soothing and calming properties, which help to reduce puffiness and dark circles.
- Leaves: Lavender leaves are rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties, which contribute to their use in creams for dark circles.
- Seeds: Lavender seeds contain essential fatty acids that can help to nourish and moisturize the skin, reducing the appearance of dark circles.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for dark circles.
- Harvest 1 cup of dried flowers in late morning when essential oils are at their highest concentration levels.
- Steep the dried flowers in 2 cups of carrier oil such as sweet almond oil for 4 to 6 weeks.
- Strain the mixture and discard the solids, then add 1 tablespoon of vitamin e oil to help preserve the mixture.
- Combine 1 cup of the infused oil with 1/2 cup of beeswax and 1/4 cup of shea butter in a double boiler.
- Pour the mixture into jars and let it cool for about 30 minutes before applying a label and storing.
6. Foeniculum vulgare
Foeniculum vulgare, also known as fennel, creams helps with dark circles because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The active compounds in fennel, such as anethole and limonene, work to reduce puffiness and promote blood circulation, which helps to lighten the appearance of dark circles. Additionally, fennel's cooling effect can help to constrict blood vessels and reduce the visibility of discoloration, resulting in a more even-toned and refreshed appearance under the eyes.
Regular use of fennel creams can lead to a noticeable reduction in dark circles.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Foeniculum vulgare creams that help with dark circles.
- Ferulic acid: A phenolic compound that helps reduce melanin production and inflammation, thereby lightening the appearance of dark circles.
- Fenchone: A terpene that has a vasoconstrictive effect, which helps reduce blood flow to the area and alleviate puffiness associated with dark circles.
- Anethole: An aromatic compound that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help reduce swelling and oxidative stress that can contribute to dark circles.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of fennel used to make creams for dark circles.
- Leaves: Used due to their high antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce the appearance of dark circles.
- Seeds: Utilized for their oil content, which has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that may help alleviate dark circle symptoms.
- Flowers: Employed for their essential oils, which possess soothing and calming effects that can help reduce puffiness and darkening of the skin around the eyes.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic fennel for dark circles.
- Harvest 50g of dried foeniculum vulgare flowers and leaves from a trusted source.
- Combine the harvested foeniculum vulgare with 250ml of coconut oil in a double boiler.
- Simmer the mixture over low heat for 30 minutes to release the herb's essence.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into a clean glass container after 30 minutes.
- Allow the cooled mixture to mature for 2 weeks before applying it to the skin.
7. Calendula officinalis
Calendula officinalis, also known as pot marigold, creams helps with dark circles because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The soothing and calming effects of Calendula reduce puffiness and swelling under the eyes, helping to diminish the appearance of dark circles. Additionally, its rich content of flavonoids and carotenoids improves circulation, nourishes the delicate skin around the eyes, and promotes a healthy, even-toned complexion, thereby reducing the visibility of dark circles.
Regular use of Calendula creams can lead to a more radiant and refreshed look.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis creams that help with dark circles.
- Calendulin: Calendulin helps with dark circles by reducing inflammation and promoting healing in the delicate skin around the eyes, thereby minimizing the appearance of dark circles.
- Triterpenoid saponins: Triterpenoid saponins in Calendula officinalis creams help with dark circles by reducing puffiness and swelling, and also have antioxidant properties that protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, particularly ferulic acid, help with dark circles by reducing the breakdown of collagen and elastin, which can cause the skin to appear dull and discolored, and also have anti-inflammatory properties that soothe the skin.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make creams for dark circles.
- Flowers: They are used due to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce puffiness and darkening of the under-eye area.
- Leaves: They are used for their soothing and cooling effects, which can help to reduce the appearance of dark circles and eye fatigue.
- Seeds: They are used due to their rich content of essential fatty acids, which can help to nourish and moisturize the delicate skin under the eyes, reducing the appearance of dark circles.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for dark circles.
- Harvest 20-30 calendula flowers at peak bloom in a cool morning when dew is still present.
- Infuse 1 cup of dried calendula flowers in 2 cups of carrier oil such as sweet almond oil for 2 weeks.
- Strain the infused oil through cheesecloth or a coffee filter to remove the flowers and discard the solids.
- Mix 1/4 cup of the infused oil with 2 tablespoons of beeswax and 2 tablespoons of shea butter in a double boiler.
- Heat the mixture over low heat and stir constantly until the beeswax and shea butter are fully incorporated and smooth.
8. Cinnamomum verum
Cinnamomum verum, also known as Ceylon cinnamon, creams helps with dark circles because of its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
The active compounds present in Ceylon cinnamon, such as cinnamaldehyde, have been shown to reduce puffiness and discoloration under the eyes. By improving circulation and reducing inflammation, Ceylon cinnamon creams can help to diminish the appearance of dark circles, leaving the skin looking smoother, brighter, and more even-toned.
Regular use can also help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cinnamomum verum creams that help with dark circles.
- Flavonoids: These compounds help reduce the appearance of dark circles by improving blood circulation and reducing inflammation in the delicate skin under the eyes.
- Cinnamaldehyde: Although Cinnamomum verum is not the primary source of cinnamaldehyde, it might be present in small amounts in creams. This compound has antioxidant properties, which can help reduce oxidative stress and improve overall skin health, contributing to a reduction in the appearance of dark circles.
- Terpenes: Some creams may contain terpenes from other ingredients, such as essential oils. Terpenes have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce puffiness and alleviate the appearance of dark circles.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ceylon cinnamon used to make creams for dark circles.
- Leaves: Cinnamomum verum leaves are rich in antioxidants, which help reduce the appearance of dark circles by protecting the skin from oxidative stress.
- Barks: Cinnamomum verum barks contain compounds that help improve blood circulation, reducing the visibility of dark circles by allowing blood to reach the skin more efficiently.
- Stems: Cinnamomum verum stems are a good source of flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce puffiness and swelling associated with dark circles.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ceylon cinnamon for dark circles.
- Infuse 10 grams of cinnamomum verum in 100 milliliters of carrier oil for 2 hours.
- Combine the infused oil with 10 grams of beeswax and 50 grams of cocoa butter in a double boiler.
- Heat the mixture over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the beeswax and cocoa butter melt.
- Remove the double boiler from heat and let the mixture cool and thicken for 30 minutes.
- Whip the cooled mixture with a hand mixer until it reaches a smooth and creamy consistency.
9. Vitis vinifera
Vitis vinifera, also known as grape, creams helps with dark circles because of its high antioxidant properties.
The extract is rich in polyphenols, which help to reduce puffiness and inflammation in the delicate skin under the eyes. By neutralizing free radicals, it promotes collagen production and improves skin elasticity. Additionally, Vitis vinifera creams can help to reduce the appearance of dark circles by improving blood circulation and reducing fluid retention, resulting in a brighter and more even-toned complexion.
This makes it an effective natural remedy for dark circles.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Vitis vinifera creams that help with dark circles.
- Anthocyanins: These powerful antioxidants help reduce dark circles by neutralizing free radicals that cause oxidative stress and inflammation around the eyes.
- Quercetin: This flavonoid acts as a potent anti-inflammatory agent, reducing swelling and puffiness around the eyes, which can contribute to the appearance of dark circles.
- Resveratrol: This polyphenol has anti-aging properties that help improve skin elasticity and reduce the visibility of fine lines and dark circles by promoting collagen production and reducing oxidative stress.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of grape used to make creams for dark circles.
- Buds: They are rich in antioxidants and flavonoids, helping to reduce puffiness and dark circles under the eyes.
- Leaves: They contain astringent and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help constrict blood vessels and reduce the appearance of dark circles.
- Seeds: They are a good source of antioxidants and essential fatty acids, which can help nourish and protect the skin, reducing the appearance of dark circles.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic grape for dark circles.
- Infuse 250ml of distilled water with 25g of dried vitis vinifera leaves and 15g of dried flowers for 30 minutes.
- Strain the infused mixture through a cheesecloth into a clean glass container discard the solids.
- Combine 100g of beeswax and 50g of shea butter in a double boiler and melt over low heat for 10 minutes.
- Gradually add the infused water and 20g of vitamin e oil to the melted wax mixture stirring constantly for 5 minutes.
- Pour the mixture into a clean glass jar and allow it to cool and solidify completely at room temperature for 30 minutes.
10. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Glycyrrhiza glabra, also known as licorice, creams helps with dark circles because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The herb contains glycyrrhetic acid, which has been shown to reduce puffiness and discoloration under the eyes. Regular use of licorice creams can improve circulation, reduce water retention, and soothe irritated skin. As a result, the appearance of dark circles is diminished, giving the skin a brighter and more even tone.
This natural remedy offers a safe and effective way to combat dark circles.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra creams that help with dark circles.
- Saponins: Saponins help with dark circles by reducing puffiness and inflammation around the eyes, which can contribute to the appearance of dark circles.
- Glycyrrhizin: Glycyrrhizin helps with dark circles by reducing water retention and swelling in the skin, which can make dark circles appear more prominent.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids help with dark circles by improving blood circulation and reducing oxidative stress, which can help to reduce the appearance of dark circles and promote overall eye health.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make creams for dark circles.
- Roots: They are commonly used due to their high content of glycyrrhizin, a compound that can help reduce puffiness and inflammation associated with dark circles.
- Leaves: The leaves of Glycyrrhiza glabra are used in creams for dark circles because they contain antioxidants and flavonoids that can help soothe and calm the skin.
- Barks: The barks of Glycyrrhiza glabra are used in creams for dark circles due to their ability to reduce inflammation and promote blood circulation, which can help alleviate dark circle symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for dark circles.
- Extract 15 grams of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots in a 1-liter solvent mixture of ethanol and water for 2 hours.
- Filter the solvent mixture and discard the solids to obtain the liquid extract.
- Mix 100 grams of beeswax and 100 grams of shea butter in a double boiler at 160°f for 10 minutes.
- Combine 50 grams of the liquid extract and 25 grams of distilled water with the wax mixture stirring constantly for 5 minutes.
- Pour the mixture into a stainless steel container and allow it to cool and thicken at room temperature for 30 minutes.
What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for dark circles?
The best combination of herbal creams that help with dark circles is a blend of Cucumber and Aloe Vera with Peppermint and Green Tea.
Cucumber and Aloe Vera help to reduce puffiness and hydrate the skin, while Peppermint cools and constricts blood vessels to minimize discoloration. Green Tea, rich in antioxidants, protects the skin from environmental stressors and promotes overall skin health. This combination creates a soothing and rejuvenating effect, helping to reduce the appearance of dark circles.
Regular application can lead to noticeable improvements.
What ailments similar to dark circles are treated with herbal creams?
Ailments similar to dark circles that are treated with herbal creams are puffy eyes, fine lines and wrinkles, and hyper-pigmentation.
These herbal creams typically contain ingredients such as caffeine, peptides, and botanicals that help reduce puffiness, smooth out wrinkles, and even out skin tone.
Examples of herbs used in these creams include ginkgo biloba, chamomile, and green tea, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties to soothe and nourish the delicate skin around the eyes.