By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 03, 2024
10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Dark Circles
Herbal tinctures for dark circles are concentrated plant-based extracts that have been traditionally used to address the discoloration and puffiness under the eyes.
They help by reducing inflammation, improving circulation, and nourishing the delicate skin around the eyes. For example, peppermint and chamomile tinctures can help calm and soothe the area, while gotu kola and horse chestnut tinctures can improve blood flow and reduce swelling.
By using herbal tinctures, individuals can say goodbye to dark circles and hello to a more radiant and refreshed appearance, boosting their confidence and overall well-being.
The following article describes in detail the most important tinctures for dark circles, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Ginkgo biloba
- 2. Vaccinium myrtillus
- 3. Boswellia serrata
- 4. Aloe vera
- 5. Paeonia lactiflora
- 6. Centella asiatica
- 7. Rosa damascena
- 8. Sambucus nigra
- 9. Taraxacum officinale
- 10. Urtica dioica
- What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for dark circles?
- What ailments similar to dark circles are treated with herbal tinctures?
1. Ginkgo biloba
Maidenhair tree tinctures helps with dark circles because it contains antioxidants and flavonoids that help to reduce inflammation and improve blood flow.
The tincture's anti-inflammatory properties can help to constrict dilated blood vessels, which are often the cause of unsightly dark circles under the eyes. Additionally, the antioxidant-rich properties of maidenhair tree tinctures can help to neutralize free radicals that contribute to oxidative stress, a common underlying factor in dark circle formation.
As a result, regular use of maidenhair tree tincture may help to brighten and rejuvenate the appearance of under-eye skin.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba tinctures that help with dark circles.
- Flavonoids: They help reduce inflammation and improve circulation, which in turn can decrease the appearance of dark circles by reducing puffiness and promoting healthy blood flow.
- Terpene glycosides: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals and reduce the appearance of dark circles by promoting collagen production and improving skin elasticity.
- Bilobalide: It has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help to reduce puffiness and darkening of the skin under the eyes by improving blood flow and reducing oxidative stress.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make tinctures for dark circles.
- Leaves: They are commonly used due to their high content of flavonoids and terpenoids, which help improve blood circulation and reduce puffiness.
- Barks: Ginkgo biloba barks are used for their antioxidant properties, which help protect the skin from oxidative stress and reduce the appearance of dark circles.
- Seeds: Ginkgo biloba seeds are used due to their potential to improve circulation and reduce inflammation, which can contribute to the appearance of dark circles.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for dark circles.
- Harvest mature ginkgo biloba leaves in the fall season when they change color to yellow.
- Dry the freshly harvested leaves in a warm oven at 150 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
- Measure out 1 part of dried ginkgo biloba leaves and add 2 parts of 80 proof vodka as a solvent.
- Steep the mixture in a dark glass jar for 2-6 weeks in a cool dry place.
- Strain the liquid mixture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle.
2. Vaccinium myrtillus
Blueberry tinctures helps with dark circles because of its potent antioxidant properties, which help to reduce inflammation and promote circulation.
The anthocyanins present in blueberries have been shown to constrict blood vessels, reducing the appearance of dark circles under the eyes. Additionally, blueberry tinctures contain flavonoids that help to improve collagen production, resulting in a smoother, more radiant complexion.
By addressing the underlying causes of dark circles, such as poor circulation and inflammation, blueberry tinctures provide a natural and effective solution for a brighter, more youthful-looking eye area.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Vaccinium myrtillus tinctures that help with dark circles.
- Anthocyanins: These powerful antioxidants help reduce dark circles by fighting free radicals that cause oxidative stress and damage to blood vessels, thus improving their integrity and reducing the visibility of dark circles.
- Quercetin: This flavonoid acts as an anti-inflammatory agent, reducing puffiness and swelling in the eyes that contribute to the appearance of dark circles, while also improving overall blood circulation.
- Catechins: These polyphenolic compounds help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the delicate skin around the eyes, improving blood vessel health and reducing the visibility of dark circles.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of blueberry used to make tinctures for dark circles.
- Leaves: Used for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties to reduce puffiness and darkening of the skin.
- Fruits: Used for their high anthocyanin content, which helps to improve blood circulation and reduce the appearance of dark circles.
- Barks: Used for their astringent properties to constrict blood vessels and reduce the visibility of dark circles.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic blueberry for dark circles.
- Harvest 200g of fresh vaccinium myrtillus leaves and flowers when they are in full bloom for three weeks.
- Dry the harvested vaccinium myrtillus leaves and flowers in a single layer at room temperature for 7-10 days.
- Combine 200g of dried vaccinium myrtillus leaves and flowers with 500ml of 45% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 14 days, shaking the jar daily for 10 minutes.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle, discard the solids and store the tincture in a cool dark place.
3. Boswellia serrata
Frankincense tinctures helps with dark circles because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
When applied topically, it reduces puffiness and swelling under the eyes by constricting blood vessels and improving circulation. Additionally, frankincense's ability to stimulate lymphatic drainage and reduce fluid retention helps to eliminate excess water and toxins that can contribute to dark circle formation.
As a result, frankincense tinctures help to brighten and even out skin tone, leaving the under-eye area looking smoother and more radiant.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Boswellia serrata tinctures that help with dark circles.
- Terpenes: These terpenes have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce puffiness and alleviate dark circles by reducing inflammation in the eyes.
- Phenolics: This phenolic compound has antioxidant properties, which can help protect the skin from oxidative stress and damage, contributing to reduced appearance of dark circles.
- Alkaloids: These alkaloids have anti-inflammatory and anti-angiogenic properties, which can help reduce fluid accumulation in the eyes and minimize the appearance of dark circles.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of frankincense used to make tinctures for dark circles.
- Roots: The roots of Boswellia serrata are commonly used due to their high concentration of boswellic acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Rhyzomes: The rhyzomes (or underground stems) of Boswellia serrata contain boswellic acids, which are also used to treat various health issues.
- Barks: The barks of Boswellia serrata are used in traditional medicine due to their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic frankincense for dark circles.
- Gather 250 grams of dried boswellia serrata resin and 500 milliliters of 95 percent ethanol for tincture base.
- Grind the dried boswellia serrata resin into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle for 2 minutes.
- Combine the ground boswellia serrata powder with 500 milliliters of 95 percent ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 3 weeks with occasional shaking.
- Strain the tincture using cheesecloth and discard the solids then transfer it to dark glass bottles for storage.
4. Aloe vera
Aloe tinctures helps with dark circles because they contain potent anti-inflammatory compounds that reduce swelling and puffiness under the eyes.
The tannins in aloe vera also help to constrict blood vessels, thereby diminishing the appearance of blue or purple discoloration. Additionally, aloe's antioxidant properties help to combat free radicals that can cause damage to the delicate skin around the eyes, resulting in a more radiant and refreshed complexion.
By addressing these underlying causes, herbal aloe tinctures provide natural relief from dark circles and leave you looking bright-eyed and bushy-tailed.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera tinctures that help with dark circles.
- Aloe-emodin: Aloe-emodin is a anthraquinone compound with anti-inflammatory properties, which helps reduce puffiness and swelling under the eyes, contributing to the appearance of dark circles.
- Anthocyanins: Anthocyanins are powerful antioxidants and phenolic compounds responsible for the blue-red color of Aloe vera, which help protect the delicate skin around the eyes from oxidative stress and damage, reducing the visibility of dark circles.
- Vitamins and flavonoids: Vitamins like vitamin E, vitamin C, and flavonoids present in Aloe vera tinctures possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help improve circulation, reduce puffiness, and protect the skin from damage, ultimately reducing the appearance of dark circles.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make tinctures for dark circles.
- Leaves: They contain a high concentration of aloin, a compound that helps reduce puffiness and inflammation associated with dark circles.
- Stems: The stem gel of Aloe vera contains vitamins, minerals, and amino acids that help nourish and firm the skin, reducing the appearance of dark circles.
- Roots: Aloe vera roots have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce swelling and inflammation, making them useful in reducing the appearance of dark circles.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for dark circles.
- Harvest a minimum of 20 mature aloe vera leaves from the garden to ensure sufficient material.
- Chop the aloe vera leaves into small pieces using a sharp knife to increase surface area.
- Combine the chopped aloe vera with 80% ethanol in a 1:3 ratio by volume in a clean glass container.
- Allow the mixture to steep for 2 to 6 weeks in a cool dark place to facilitate extraction.
- Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle to remove solids.
5. Paeonia lactiflora
Chinese peony tinctures helps with dark circles because it possesses anti-inflammatory properties that reduce puffiness and swelling under the eyes.
The herb's antioxidant compounds also help to combat free radicals that can cause discoloration and darkness. Additionally, peony is believed to improve blood circulation, which can help to dissipate stagnant fluid that contributes to dark circles.
By addressing these underlying causes, herbal Chinese peony tinctures provide a natural solution for reducing the appearance of dark circles and leaving the skin looking brighter and more radiant.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Paeonia lactiflora tinctures that help with dark circles.
- Paeoniflorin: This monoterpene glycoside has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce puffiness and discoloration associated with dark circles.
- Albiflorin: This monoterpene glycoside has anti-inflammatory and vasodilatory effects, which may help improve blood circulation and reduce the appearance of dark circles.
- Paeonol: This phenolic compound has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help protect the skin from oxidative stress and reduce inflammation that can contribute to dark circles.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of chinese peony used to make tinctures for dark circles.
- Roots: Used due to their high concentration of bioactive compounds, including alkaloids, glycosides, and phenolic acids, which may help alleviate dark circle symptoms.
- Leaves: Utilized for their potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which might help reduce puffiness and discoloration associated with dark circles.
- Flowers: Employed for their possible anti-inflammatory and soothing effects, which could aid in calming the skin and reducing the appearance of dark circles.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chinese peony for dark circles.
- Harvest paeonia lactiflora roots and flowers in late summer or early fall when flowers have fully bloomed.
- Clean and dry the harvested plant material thoroughly to prevent contamination and spoilage.
- Chop the dried plant material into small pieces to increase surface area for solvent absorption.
- Combine chopped plant material with 60-70 percent ethanol in a 1:3 or 1:5 ratio.
- Store the herbal tincture in a cool dark place for at least 2-6 weeks to allow extraction.
6. Centella asiatica
Asiatic pennywort tinctures helps with dark circles because of its potent antioxidant properties, which help to reduce inflammation and promote healthy blood flow.
The tincture's ability to improve circulation can effectively eliminate the accumulation of toxins and excess fluid under the eyes, reducing their appearance.
Additionally, Asiatic pennywort has anti-inflammatory compounds that soothe and calm the delicate skin around the eye area, further diminishing dark circles and promoting a brighter, more radiant complexion.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Centella asiatica tinctures that help with dark circles.
- Triterpenoids: These compounds, particularly asiaticoside and madecassoside, help with dark circles by improving blood circulation and reducing inflammation in the delicate skin under the eyes.
- Asiatic acid: This phenolic compound helps to reduce puffiness and dark circles by inhibiting the activity of enzymes that break down collagen and elastin, essential for maintaining skin elasticity.
- Madecassic acid: This triterpenoid saponin helps to reduce dark circles by improving lymphatic drainage and preventing the accumulation of fluid in the tissues under the eyes.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of asiatic pennywort used to make tinctures for dark circles.
- Leaves: Rich in saponins, which help reduce puffiness and inflammation.
- Rhyzomes: Contain triterpenoids and flavonoids that improve blood circulation and reduce oxidative stress.
- Roots: Abundant in triterpenoids and other compounds that enhance lymphatic drainage and reduce the appearance of dark circles.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic asiatic pennywort for dark circles.
- Harvest a sufficient quantity of fresh centella asiatica leaves and stems from a clean and healthy environment weighing around 500 grams.
- Chop the harvested plant material into small pieces to increase the surface area for solvent penetration and extraction.
- Combine the chopped plant material with 75 percent vodka as a solvent in a clean glass jar in a ratio of 1:5.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks to allow for the extraction of bioactive compounds into the solvent.
- Strain the liquid mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean container to separate the plant material from the tincture.
7. Rosa damascena
Damask rose tinctures helps with dark circles because of its unique ability to improve blood circulation and reduce inflammation.
The potent antioxidants and flavonoids present in damask roses help constrict dilated blood vessels, thereby reducing the appearance of dark circles. Additionally, the tincture's anti-inflammatory properties soothe and calm the delicate skin under the eyes, reducing puffiness and discoloration.
As a result, damask rose tinctures can effectively alleviate the look of dark circles, leaving the eye area looking brighter and more radiant.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Rosa damascena tinctures that help with dark circles.
- Flavonoids: These plant compounds help with dark circles by reducing inflammation and improving circulation, which can help to minimize the appearance of darkened skin under the eyes.
- Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound has potent antioxidant properties that help to neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress, which can contribute to the formation of dark circles.
- Volatile oils: These terpenes have vasodilatory effects, which help to improve blood flow and reduce puffiness, making the dark circles appear less prominent.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of damask rose used to make tinctures for dark circles.
- Leaves: They are used due to their high flavonoid and phenolic content, which helps to reduce puffiness and discoloration.
- Flowers: They are used due to their rich antioxidant properties, which help to combat free radicals and improve skin health.
- Buds: They are used due to their high concentration of flavonoids and phenolic acids, which help to reduce inflammation and improve circulation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic damask rose for dark circles.
- Harvest the rosa damascena flowers at dawn when dew is present and dry them thoroughly in a warm dark place for 2 weeks.
- Grind 1 part of dried rosa damascena flowers into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or spice mill for 2 minutes.
- Combine 1 part of ground rosa damascena powder with 2 parts of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar for 4 weeks.
- Shake the jar containing the vodka and rosa damascena mixture every day for 30 seconds during the 4-week maceration period.
- Strain the liquid through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids after 4 weeks.
8. Sambucus nigra
Elder tinctures helps with dark circles because it has potent antioxidant properties that help reduce inflammation and swelling under the eyes.
The tannins in elderberry help constrict blood vessels, reducing the appearance of discoloration and puffiness. Additionally, the flavonoids present in elder tincture improve circulation, allowing oxygen and nutrients to reach the delicate skin under the eyes, promoting a brighter and more even complexion.
As a result, elder tinctures can effectively combat dark circles, leaving you with a radiant and youthful appearance.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Sambucus nigra tinctures that help with dark circles.
- Flavonoids: These plant compounds help reduce inflammation and improve blood circulation, which can help alleviate dark circles by reducing swelling and promoting healthier blood flow under the eyes.
- Anthocyanins: As powerful antioxidants, anthocyanins help protect the skin from oxidative stress and damage, which can contribute to the appearance of dark circles by reducing puffiness and darkening of the skin.
- Quercetin: As a flavonoid with anti-inflammatory properties, quercetin can help reduce inflammation and edema under the eyes, thereby alleviating the appearance of dark circles and promoting overall skin health.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of elder used to make tinctures for dark circles.
- Flowers: Used due to their high content of anthocyanins and flavonoids, which help reduce inflammation and improve circulation to alleviate dark circles.
- Leaves: Utilized for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which aid in reducing puffiness and darkening of the skin under the eyes.
- Buds: Employed due to their rich content of flavonoids and phenolic acids, which help improve blood flow and reduce fluid retention in the facial area, thereby minimizing the appearance of dark circles.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic elder for dark circles.
- Harvest fresh sambucus nigra berries in late summer or early fall when they are ripe and easily crushed.
- Clean and dry the berries thoroughly to prevent contamination and ensure a safe tincture.
- Combine 1 part sambucus nigra berries with 2 parts vodka in a clean glass jar to create a strong tincture.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place for 4 to 6 weeks to allow the tincture to mature.
- Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids after 2 to 3 hours.
9. Taraxacum officinale
Dandelion tinctures helps with dark circles because of its natural ability to reduce inflammation and promote healthy circulation.
The tincture's active compounds, such as taraxasterol and taraxeryl acetate, work together to constrict blood vessels and reduce puffiness around the eyes. This results in a brighter, more even-toned complexion under the eyes, reducing the appearance of dark circles.
Additionally, dandelion's anti-inflammatory properties help soothe and calm the delicate skin around the eyes, leaving it looking refreshed and revitalized.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale tinctures that help with dark circles.
- Taraxasterol: A triterpene that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce puffiness and dark discoloration under the eyes.
- Quercetin: A flavonoid phenolic compound that has potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation that may contribute to dark circles.
- Inulin: A fructan polysaccharide that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce puffiness and dark discoloration under the eyes by improving blood circulation and lymphatic drainage.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make tinctures for dark circles.
- Leaves: The astringent and anti-inflammatory properties of taraxacum leaves help to reduce puffiness and dark circles by constricting blood vessels.
- Flowers: The flavonoids present in taraxacum flowers have antioxidant properties, which help to combat oxidative stress and promote collagen synthesis, reducing the appearance of dark circles.
- Roots: The saponins found in taraxacum roots have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which help to soothe and calm the skin, reducing the visibility of dark circles.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for dark circles.
- Harvest 1 part of fresh taraxacum officinale leaves and flowers at peak potency for maximum bioavailability.
- Dry the taraxacum officinale plant material in a clean environment for a minimum of 2 weeks to prevent mold.
- Combine 1 part dried taraxacum officinale with 2 parts 80 proof ethanol in a clean glass container for tincture.
- Steep the mixture for 2 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking to ensure even extraction.
- Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container and discard solids immediately.
10. Urtica dioica
Stinging nettle tinctures helps with dark circles because of its ability to reduce inflammation and improve circulation.
The tannins present in stinging nettle leaves have been shown to constrict blood vessels, which can help alleviate the pooling of fluid that causes puffiness and discoloration under the eyes.
Additionally, the anti-inflammatory properties of stinging nettle may help soothe and calm the delicate skin around the eye area, reducing the appearance of dark circles and leaving the skin looking smoother and more radiant.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Urtica dioica tinctures that help with dark circles.
- Triterpenes: Triterpenes in Urtica dioica help reduce dark circles by reducing inflammation and improving lymphatic circulation, which can help to decrease the visibility of dark circles.
- Quercetin: Quercetin, a flavonoid phenolic compound, helps combat dark circles by reducing inflammation, improving blood vessel function, and protecting the skin from oxidative damage.
- Alkaloids: The alkaloids present in Urtica dioica may help alleviate dark circles by inhibiting histamine release, which can contribute to the appearance of dark circles by increasing blood vessel permeability and fluid accumulation in the skin.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of stinging nettle used to make tinctures for dark circles.
- Leaves: The leaves of Urtica dioica are rich in antioxidants and flavonoids, which help to reduce inflammation and improve circulation, making them a popular choice for addressing dark circles.
- Stems: The stems of Urtica dioica contain anti-inflammatory compounds that can help to reduce puffiness and dark discoloration under the eyes.
- Roots: The roots of Urtica dioica are said to have anti-aging properties, which can help to improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of dark circles.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic stinging nettle for dark circles.
- Gather 1 part of fresh urtica dioica leaves and stems and 2 parts of vodka by volume.
- Combine the fresh plant material with 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar and seal it.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks, shaking the jar daily.
- Strain the liquid mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass bottle.
- Label and date the herbal tincture and store it in a cool dark place indefinitely.
What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for dark circles?
The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with dark circles is a blend of Peppermint, Rosemary, and Ginkgo Biloba.
Peppermint's cooling properties reduce puffiness, while Rosemary's antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties help to brighten and firm the skin. Ginkgo Biloba, rich in flavonoids and terpenoids, improves circulation and reduces discoloration. Taken in moderation, this trio can help to minimize the appearance of dark circles, promoting a more radiant and rested complexion.
Regular use may also improve overall eye health and reduce fatigue.
What ailments similar to dark circles are treated with herbal tinctures?
Ailments similar to dark circles that are treated with herbal tinctures are puffy eyes, bags under the eyes, and eye fatigue.
Herbal remedies like peppermint, chamomile, and arnica are used to reduce puffiness and soothe tired eyes.
Turmeric and ginger tinctures help to combat inflammation and improve circulation, reducing dark circles and promoting a brighter, more radiant appearance.