Puffy eyes typically occur as a part of natural aging, although fluid retention and lack of sleep may also cause swelling around the eye area. Considered a cosmetic concern, puffy eyes are rarely indicative of a more serious problem. In most cases, herbal home treatments can help improve the appearance of puffy eyes. If the condition persists after using herbs and home remedies for a few weeks, consult a qualified medical practitioner for further treatment options.
Fennel Seeds
Fennel seeds, typically used for culinary purposes, contain anti-inflammatory and astringent properties that may help reduce puffiness around the eyes. In her book “Herbs for Healthy Skin,” Cindy L.A. Jones recommends applying a fennel seed compress to puffy eyes to reduce swelling.
Crush 2 tsp. fennel seeds in a mortar and pestle, or place them in a plastic zipper lock bag and crush with a rolling pin. Divide the seeds into equal parts and wrap each portion in a piece of coffee filter large enough to cover your eyes. Moisten the compress slightly with cool water and place over closed eyes. Leave on for 15 to 20 minutes.
Witch Hazel
Witch hazel, an astringent herbal extract widely available in drugstores and natural health stores, constricts the blood vessels and swollen tissues that cause puffy eyes. Linda Rector-Page, author of “How to Be Your Own Herbal Pharmacist,” suggests applying a chilled witch hazel compress to the eye area to reduce puffiness.
Soak clean cotton pads in witch hazel extract, chill in the refrigerator for 20 to 30 minutes, and place over closed eyes. Leave the pads in place for at least 15 minutes at each application. Repeat daily as needed.
Horsetail
A compress made from the herb horsetail can relieve the discomfort of swollen or puffy eyes according to Nancy Arrowsmith in her book “Essential Herbal Wisdom.” To make, steep 2 tsp. dried horsetail in 1 cup boiling water for 15 minutes. Strain the herbs from the liquid, and chill the tea in the refrigerator or freezer until cold.
Soak a clean cotton cloth large enough to cover your eye area in the tea, wring out any excess liquid, and apply as a compress. Leave on until the compress loses its coolness, which is usually after 10 minutes. Remove and repeat the treatment as needed to get rid of puffiness around your eyes.
Cornflower
Cornflower, a daisy-like flower also known as bachelor's button, is a gentle astringent that may help reduce puffy eyes according to Brigitte Mars in her book “Beauty By Nature.” For best results, use the herb as a compress.
Steep 1 tsp. dried or 2 tsp. fresh cornflowers in 1 cup hot water for 10 minutes. Strain the flowers from the liquid and chill the tea in the refrigerator until cold. Soak cotton pads or a cotton cloth in the cold cornflower tea, apply to the eye area over closed eyes, and allow the compress to remain for 10 to 15 minutes. Do not use cornflower if you have allergies to daisies.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Bags Under Eyes
- “Herbs for Healthy Skin”; Cindy L.A. Jones; 2002
- “How to Be Your Own Herbal Pharmacist”; Linda Rector-Page; 1998
- “Essential Herbal Wisdom: A Complete Exploration of 50 Remarkable Herbs”; Nancy Arrowsmith; 2009
- “Beauty by Nature”; Brigitte Mars; 2006
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