By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 04, 2024
10 Best Herbal Decoctions For Puffy Eyes
Herbal decoctions for puffy eyes are concentrated liquid extracts made by steeping herbs in hot water, which can provide natural relief from puffy eyes caused by allergies, fatigue, or poor circulation.
These decoctions help to reduce swelling and inflammation, promoting a more rested and refreshed appearance. Examples of herbal decoctions that can help with puffy eyes include chamomile, calendula, and peppermint, which can be applied as an eye wash or used in a compress.
By using these natural remedies, individuals can wake up looking more alert and awake, improving their confidence and overall quality of life.
The following article describes in detail the most important decoctions for puffy eyes, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Aloe vera
- 2. Mentha x piperita
- 3. Echinacea angustifolia
- 4. Ginkgo biloba
- 5. Calendula officinalis
- 6. Curcuma longa
- 7. Borago officinalis
- 8. Tanacetum parthenium
- 9. Lavandula angustifolia
- 10. Matricaria chamomilla
- What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for puffy eyes?
- What ailments similar to puffy eyes are treated with herbal decoctions?
1. Aloe vera
Aloe decoctions helps with puffy eyes because of its unique combination of soothing, anti-inflammatory, and hydrating properties.
The gel-like substance within aloe vera contains over 200 active compounds that work together to reduce puffiness and swelling by improving blood circulation and relaxing the eye muscles. As the decoction is absorbed into the skin, it also cools and calms the area, providing instant relief from tired, puffy eyes.
This natural remedy is gentle enough for daily use and can be applied as needed to combat morning puffiness or post-long-day fatigue.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera decoctions that help with puffy eyes.
- Aloin: Aloein, a anthraquinone glycoside, has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and puffiness around the eyes by reducing the release of pro-inflammatory mediators.
- Aloe-emodin: Aloe-emodin, a anthraquinone compound, has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that help alleviate puffiness by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the skin.
- Polysaccharides: Polysaccharides, particularly Acemannan, have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that help reduce swelling and redness around the eyes, promoting a more even skin tone and reducing puffiness.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make decoctions for puffy eyes.
- Leaves: The gel inside Aloe vera leaves is used to reduce puffiness and inflammation due to its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
- Seeds: Aloe vera seeds contain compounds that help to reduce swelling and ease pain, making them effective in treating puffy eyes.
- Flowers: The extracts from Aloe vera flowers contain flavonoids and other compounds that help to reduce puffiness and promote blood circulation, thereby alleviating puffy eyes.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for puffy eyes.
- Cut a 150-200g piece of aloe vera leaf from a mature plant and remove the outer skin.
- Chop the aloe vera leaf into small pieces weighing about 50g and soak them in 500ml water for 2 hours.
- Boil the aloe vera-soaked water in a saucepan over medium heat for 15-20 minutes.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
- Store the herbal aloe vera decoction in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for later use.
2. Mentha x piperita
Peppermint decoctions helps with puffy eyes because its calming and anti-inflammatory properties work wonders on reducing swelling and alleviating tension.
The menthol content in peppermint oil constricts blood vessels, which reduces puffiness and dark circles by decreasing fluid retention. Additionally, peppermint's soothing effects relax the eye muscles, reducing stress and promoting a sense of calmness.
As a result, peppermint decoctions can provide immediate relief from puffy eyes, leaving them looking smoother, brighter, and more refreshed.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita decoctions that help with puffy eyes.
- Menthol: It helps to reduce puffiness by constricting blood vessels and improving circulation, which in turn reduces fluid accumulation in the eyes.
- Menthone: This terpene has anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce swelling and inflammation associated with puffy eyes.
- Rosenary type phenolic diterpene: It has a vasoconstrictive effect, which can help reduce blood flow to the affected area, thereby reducing puffiness and inflammation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make decoctions for puffy eyes.
- Leaves: Leaves are commonly used due to their high menthol content, which helps to reduce swelling and ease puffiness.
- Stems: Stems are often used as they contain a higher concentration of menthol than leaves, making them an effective remedy for puffy eyes.
- Roots: Roots are sometimes used due to their rich stores of menthol and other bioactive compounds that help to alleviate puffiness and promote relaxation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for puffy eyes.
- Harvest fresh m x piperita leaves and stems in the morning to ensure optimal essential oil content.
- Chop 20-30 grams of the harvested material into small pieces to release its active compounds.
- Combine the chopped m x piperita with 500 milliliters of boiling water in a saucepan to create decoction.
- Simmer the mixture at 95-100 degrees celsius for 5-7 minutes to extract its bioactive components.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve to separate the liquid from solids.
3. Echinacea angustifolia
Kansas coneflower decoctions helps with puffy eyes because its anti-inflammatory properties soothe and calm irritated tissues, reducing swelling and puffiness.
The decoction's gentle astringent nature also helps to constrict blood vessels, reducing fluid retention and minimizing the appearance of dark circles under the eyes.
Additionally, the herbal concoction's antioxidant-rich compounds help to protect the delicate skin around the eyes from environmental stressors, promoting a smoother, brighter complexion.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea angustifolia decoctions that help with puffy eyes.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce swelling and alleviate puffy eyes.
- Alkylamides: Alkylamides have been shown to possess immunomodulatory effects, which can help regulate the body's response to allergens and reduce puffiness.
- Phenylethanoid glycosides: These compounds exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, which can help soothe and calm the skin around the eyes, reducing puffiness and inflammation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of kansas coneflower used to make decoctions for puffy eyes.
- Roots: Rich in compounds like echinacoside and alkylamides, which have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce puffiness and swelling.
- Leaves: Contain flavonoids and phenolic acids that possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can contribute to the reduction of eye puffiness.
- Stems: Echinacea stems have been traditionally used for their ability to reduce inflammation and promote healing, which can help alleviate puffy eyes.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kansas coneflower for puffy eyes.
- Harvest 30-60 grams of dried roots of echinacea angustifolia from a trusted source.
- Combine the roots with 1 liter of boiling water in a heat-resistant container.
- Steep the mixture for 10-15 minutes to allow the active compounds to infuse.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
- Store the decoction in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before consuming it.
4. Ginkgo biloba
Maidenhair tree decoctions helps with puffy eyes because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties.
The decoction's flavonoids and phenolic acids work together to reduce swelling and alleviate discomfort. When applied topically, it constricts blood vessels, thereby diminishing the appearance of puffiness and dark circles. Additionally, its antioxidant-rich compounds help protect the delicate skin around the eyes from environmental stressors, promoting a smoother, more radiant complexion.
This natural remedy provides a gentle and effective solution for reducing puffy eyes and promoting a refreshed look.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba decoctions that help with puffy eyes.
- Flavonoids: These plant compounds, specifically quercetin, help reduce inflammation and edema in the eyes, alleviating puffy eyes.
- Bilobalide: This sesquiterpene lactone has anti-inflammatory properties, which help decrease swelling and reduce the appearance of puffy eyes.
- Ginkgolides: These sesquiterpene lactones have a potent anti-inflammatory effect, helping to reduce fluid retention and alleviate puffy eyes.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make decoctions for puffy eyes.
- Leaves: The leaves are the most commonly used part of Ginkgo biloba due to their high flavonoid content, which helps to reduce inflammation and alleviate puffiness in the eyes.
- Seeds: The seeds are used to create a decoction that may help to reduce swelling and improve circulation, thereby reducing puffy eyes.
- Buds: The buds are sometimes used in traditional medicine to create a decoction that may help to reduce inflammation and alleviate puffiness in the eyes.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for puffy eyes.
- Harvest ginkgo biloba leaves from mature trees in late summer or early fall with caution.
- Dry the leaves in a warm dark place for at least 7 days to remove moisture.
- Measure out 1-2 teaspoons of dried ginkgo biloba leaves per 8 ounces of water for decoction.
- Boil the water then add the dried leaves and reduce heat to simmer for 3-5 minutes.
- Strain the decoction through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup and discard the solids immediately.
5. Calendula officinalis
Pot marigold decoctions helps with puffy eyes because of its exceptional anti-inflammatory properties.
The antioxidants present in marigold flowers, such as lutein and zeaxanthin, help to reduce swelling and congestion around the eyes. When cooled, the decoction can be used as an eye bath or compress to soothe and calm irritated eyes, reducing puffiness and dark circles.
Additionally, pot marigold's anti-inflammatory properties help to relax the skin and muscles surrounding the eyes, further reducing the appearance of puffy eyes.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis decoctions that help with puffy eyes.
- Carotenoids: Help reduce puffiness by reducing inflammation and promoting the breakdown of excess fluids in the skin.
- Phenolic acids: Exhibit anti-inflammatory properties that help minimize swelling and redness associated with puffy eyes.
- Triterpenoids: Possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help soothe and calm the skin around the eyes, reducing puffiness and promoting overall eye health.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make decoctions for puffy eyes.
- Leaves: Their anti-inflammatory properties help reduce puffiness and swelling.
- Flowers: They contain antioxidants and flavonoids that soothe and calm the skin around the eyes.
- Seeds: The oil extracted from the seeds has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which can help reduce puffiness and promote healing.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for puffy eyes.
- Gather 1 cup of fresh or dried calendula officinalis flowers for making the decoction.
- Combine the calendula flowers with 4 cups of water in a saucepan to create a strong infusion.
- Heat the mixture over medium heat for 10 to 15 minutes or until it reduces to 2 cups.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl to remove solids.
- Allow the decoction to cool for at least 30 minutes before using it for medicinal purposes.
6. Curcuma longa
Turmeric decoctions helps with puffy eyes because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce swelling and soothe irritated skin.
The curcumin in turmeric also acts as a natural antihistamine, combating excess fluid retention and alleviating puffiness caused by sinus pressure or allergies.
When applied topically or consumed internally, turmeric decoctions can help constrict blood vessels, reducing dark circles and leaving the under-eye area looking smooth and refreshed.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Curcuma longa decoctions that help with puffy eyes.
- Curcumin: As a powerful anti-inflammatory compound, curcumin helps reduce swelling and inflammation around the eyes, thereby alleviating puffy eyes.
- Tumerone: This sesquiterpene has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce puffiness and discoloration caused by inflammation and free radical damage.
- Beta-caryophyllene: This sesquiterpene has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that may help reduce puffiness and improve circulation around the eyes, thus reducing the appearance of puffy eyes.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of turmeric used to make decoctions for puffy eyes.
- Roots: Rich in anti-inflammatory compounds like curcumin, which reduces puffiness and inflammation.
- Rhyzomes (or rhizomes): Similar to roots, rhyzomes contain curcumin, a key ingredient in reducing puffiness and inflammation.
- Leaves: Touted for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help alleviate puffiness and swelling.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric for puffy eyes.
- Harvest 1-2 teaspoons of fresh curcuma longa rhizomes or 1 teaspoon of dried powder from a trusted source.
- Wash the rhizomes with cold water to remove dirt and impurities gently under running water.
- Cut the rhizomes into small pieces and combine with 1 cup of water in a saucepan to make decoction.
- Boil the mixture for 10-15 minutes to release the active compounds and flavor into the water slowly.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a cup and discard the solids completely.
7. Borago officinalis
Borage decoctions helps with puffy eyes because its anti-inflammatory properties can reduce swelling and ease the discomfort associated with puffiness.
The decoction's antioxidants also help to combat oxidative stress, which can cause water retention and puffiness. Additionally, borage contains omega-6 fatty acids that promote healthy skin cell growth and regeneration, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes.
By incorporating borage decoctions into your skincare routine, you can enjoy a more radiant and refreshed look.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Borago officinalis decoctions that help with puffy eyes.
- Triterpenoids: These compounds help reduce inflammation and swelling, which are common causes of puffy eyes, by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
- Phenolic acids: These antioxidants help reduce fluid retention and swelling by improving blood circulation and breaking down excess fluids, resulting in a reduction of puffiness.
- Saponins: These compounds help reduce inflammation and improve lymphatic drainage, which helps to reduce the accumulation of fluids and swelling in the eyes.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of borage used to make decoctions for puffy eyes.
- Leaves: They are used due to their high content of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, which help reduce puffiness and swelling.
- Seeds: The seeds are used because they contain mucilages, which can help soothe and calm the skin, reducing puffiness and inflammation.
- Flowers: They are used due to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce puffiness and promote healthy skin around the eyes.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic borage for puffy eyes.
- Harvest 20-30 grams of fresh borago officinalis leaves and flowers or 10-15 grams of dried material in late morning.
- Chop the herb finely using sharp knife to release essential oils and increase surface area.
- Combine the chopped herb with 1 liter of water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer the mixture for 10-15 minutes or until the liquid has reduced slightly.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container to remove solids.
8. Tanacetum parthenium
Feverfew decoctions helps with puffy eyes because of its unique ability to reduce swelling and inflammation.
The decoction's anti-inflammatory compounds, particularly parthenolide, work to constrict blood vessels and ease fluid retention, thereby reducing the appearance of puffiness. Additionally, feverfew's antioxidant properties help protect delicate eye tissues from oxidative stress, promoting a smoother and more radiant complexion around the orbital area.
By addressing both internal inflammation and external signs of puffy eyes, feverfew decoctions provide a natural and effective solution for achieving a fresher, brighter look.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Tanacetum parthenium decoctions that help with puffy eyes.
- Parthenolide: This sesquiterpene lactone has anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce swelling and alleviate puffiness around the eyes.
- Camphor: A terpene with vasoconstrictive properties, camphor helps to reduce blood flow to the affected area, thus decreasing puffiness and swelling.
- Bornyl acetate: A monoterpene that has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effects, bornyl acetate helps to relax the muscles and reduce inflammation around the eyes, thus alleviating puffiness.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of feverfew used to make decoctions for puffy eyes.
- Leaves: They are rich in flavonoids and other compounds that help reduce inflammation and ease puffiness.
- Stems: The stems of Tanacetum parthenium contain anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which help soothe and calm the skin around puffy eyes.
- Flowers: The flowers of Tanacetum parthenium have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and redness associated with puffy eyes.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic feverfew for puffy eyes.
- Harvest tanacetum parthenium flowers and leaves in the morning after the dew has dried.
- Dry the plant material by spreading it out in a single layer on paper bags for 2 days.
- Weigh 2 grams of dried tanacetum parthenium flowers and leaves for each 100 milliliters of water.
- Steep the weighed plant material in boiling water for 5 to 10 minutes in a saucepan.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a cup after the decoction has cooled.
9. Lavandula angustifolia
English lavender decoctions helps with puffy eyes because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which effectively reduce swelling and alleviate discomfort.
The decoction's soothing and calming effects also help to relax the muscles around the eyes, reducing puffiness and dark circles. Additionally, lavender's antiseptic and antifungal properties can help to prevent infections that may contribute to puffy eyes.
By incorporating English lavender decoctions into your skincare routine, you can enjoy a more radiant and refreshed look.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia decoctions that help with puffy eyes.
- Linalool: Linalool is a terpene that helps reduce puffiness and inflammation by promoting relaxation and decreasing the release of stress hormones that can cause water retention.
- Linalyl acetate: Linalyl acetate is a terpene that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help alleviate puffiness by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the skin.
- Apigenin: Apigenin is a phenolic compound that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help reduce puffiness by inhibiting the release of histamine, a chemical that can cause blood vessels to swell.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make decoctions for puffy eyes.
- Leaves: They contain essential oils that help reduce inflammation and relax the skin around the eyes.
- Flowers: Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, they soothe and calm the skin, reducing puffiness and swelling.
- Stems: They contain a higher concentration of essential oils than the leaves, which can help to reduce eye inflammation and improve circulation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for puffy eyes.
- Harvest 20-30 lavandula angustifolia flowers and leaves from mature plants at peak bloom for maximum potency.
- Dry the harvested flowers and leaves in a single layer at 30-40 degrees celsius for 1-2 weeks.
- Combine 1 teaspoon of dried lavandula angustifolia flowers and leaves with 1 cup of boiling water to create a decoction.
- Steep the mixture for 5-10 minutes allowing the plant's bioactive compounds to infuse into the water.
- Strain and discard the solids then let the decoction cool before consuming or using as needed.
10. Matricaria chamomilla
Chamomile decoctions helps with puffy eyes because of its natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
When cooled, chamomile tea bags can be applied to the eyes to reduce swelling and soothe irritated skin. The apigenin and bisabolol present in chamomile help to constrict blood vessels, which reduces puffiness and dark circles.
Additionally, the soothing effects of chamomile can calm irritated eyes and promote a sense of relaxation, making it an effective natural remedy for puffy eyes.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla decoctions that help with puffy eyes.
- Apigenin: This flavonoid acts as an anti-inflammatory agent, reducing swelling and puffiness around the eyes by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
- Chamazulene: This sesquiterpene lactone has anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic properties, helping to reduce the redness and swelling associated with puffy eyes.
- Bornyl acetate: This terpene has anti-inflammatory and anti-spasmodic effects, which can help to relax the muscles around the eyes and reduce puffiness.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make decoctions for puffy eyes.
- Flowers: They are rich in anti-inflammatory and soothing compounds, such as apigenin and bisabolol, which help to reduce swelling and calm the eyes.
- Leaves: Although not as commonly used as flowers, leaves still contain some of the same beneficial compounds, including apigenin and luteolin, which help to reduce puffiness and inflammation.
- Seeds: The seeds of Matricaria chamomilla contain a higher concentration of apigenin than the flowers, making them a good alternative for making decoctions to alleviate puffy eyes.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for puffy eyes.
- Harvest 1-2 cups of fresh matricaria chamomilla flowers or 1/4 cup dried flowers for decoction preparation.
- Combine the harvested flowers with 2 cups of water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to a simmer for 5-10 minutes or until the liquid has reduced slightly.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a cup to remove the solids.
- Allow the decoction to cool before consuming 1/2 cup as needed for its calming effects.
What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for puffy eyes?
The best combination of herbal decoctions that help with puffy eyes is a blend of peppermint, chamomile, and cucumber.
Peppermint decoction reduces inflammation, while chamomile soothes and calms the area. Cucumber decoction cools and hydrates the skin, reducing puffiness. To make the decoction, combine equal parts of dried peppermint, chamomile, and cucumber roots, and steep in boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
Strain and use as a compress or apply with a cotton pad to ease puffy eyes.
What ailments similar to puffy eyes are treated with herbal decoctions?
Ailments similar to puffy eyes that are treated with herbal decoctions are eczema, acne, and rosacea.
Herbal decoctions can help reduce inflammation and relieve discomfort associated with these skin conditions.
For example, chamomile and calendula infusions can soothe itchy skin and redness, while peppermint and ginger decoctions can help to calm and cool the skin.