Mild swelling or puffiness under the eyes occurs frequently with age. As you grow older, the tissue and muscles around the eyes weaken, allowing fat to migrate to the lower eyelids. This may cause the area under the eyes to appear puffy. In some cases, puffiness is caused by water retention, usually from lack of sleep. When fluid accumulates in the space below the eyes, this may cause a swollen appearance. Regardless of cause, several home remedies may help reduce the appearance of under-eye puffiness. They cannot completely get rid of the problem, however, especially if aging is the cause.
Borage Eye Compress
In her book "Jude's Herbal Home Remedies," Jude C. Todd writes that borage leaves can clear redness caused by eye strain and reduce puffiness under the eyes. Pour one cup boiling water over one tsp. dried borage leaves and allow the mixture to steep for about 30 minutes, or until completely cool. Strain the liquid into a sterile jar and discard the spent herbs. Soak a clean cotton cloth in the borage tea and wring it out thoroughly. Lie down in a comfortable position and place the compress over your eyes. Allow it to remain there for at least 10 minutes for the best results. Use this treatment as often as needed to reduce under-eye puffiness.
Fruits and Vegetables
Sliced fruits and vegetables may help reduce puffiness under your eyes, according to Brigitte Mars in her book "Beauty by Nature." Place a thin slice of cucumber, peeled red potato, apple or any type of melon over each eye and lie down in a comfortable position. Allow the slices to remain for 10 to 15 minutes before removing. The juices from these fruits and veggies are believed to help reduce inflammation. Repeat this treatment once or twice a day when you need to relieve puffiness under your eyes.
Herbal Tea Bags
A cool, damp compress made from herbal tea bags may help get rid of puffiness, writes Ellen Marmur in her book "Simple Skin Beauty," though it's only a temporary fix. For the best results, use tea bags filled with herbs that exhibit anti-inflammatory properties such as chamomile, elder flower, eyebright, peppermint or even regular black tea leaves. Moisten two tea bags with tepid water and place one over each eye while lying back in a comfortable position. Allow them to remain there for about 20 minutes before removing. Repeat the treatment as necessary throughout the day.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Bags Under Eyes
- "Jude's Herbal Home Remedies: Natural Health, Beauty & Home-Care Secrets"; Jude C. Todd; 2002
- "Beauty by Nature"; Brigitte Mars; 2006
- "Simple Skin Beauty: Every Woman's Guide to a Lifetime of Healthy, Gorgeous Skin"; Ellen Marmur, Gina Way; 2009
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