Myths:

Nothing can be done to improve dark circles under the eyes.

Facts:

Dark circles can in some cases be eliminated.

Overview:

Dark circles under the eyes have always been considered a sign of late nights and lack of sleep. The cause of these dark circles is often blamed on stress, too much sun, too little sleep, menstrual disorders, kidney dysfunction and even too many fried, frozen and canned foods, although it is often a hereditary trait. Circles under the eyes can worsen in people who smoke or suffer from allergies.

In western medicine, the kidneys are connected to the adrenal glands and with stress levels in life being so high, these glands are very often exhausted. When these glands are weakened, allergies are prevalent. Dark circles under the eyes are known to be a classic symptom of an allergy, together with a host of other signs including edema and fatigue. It may help to meet with a nutritionist/allergist to rule out foods and allergens that may be contributing to this condition.

According to Chinese Medicine, dark circles under the eyes relate to our kidneys, which are seen as the foundation of our vitality. Sufficient sleep is one of the simplest remedies recommended.

Symptoms:

Dark circles under the eyes.

Causes:

Causes include:

• Hereditary
• Allergies
• Stress
• Lack of sleep
• Adrenal exhaustion
• Kidney energetic deficiency (Chinese Medicine)
• Poor diet

Conventional Treatment:

Conventional treatments include:

• Rest and relaxation
• Allergy medications

Complementary Treatment:

The following may help resolve the dark circles:

Very Helpful: Purple Gold is a cream put on under the eyes. It contains 4 Chinese herbs that can be very effective in significantly reducing the darkness under the eyes. Cost is $18 for a 13 gram container (usually lasts up to 5 months). Apply under the eyes once in the morning and once at night.
Helpful: Vision Tone Formula by Integral Health Apothecary. Includes a combination of Chinese and Western herbs to strengthen the eyes. Cost is $19.95 per bottle. Recommended dosage is 1/2 dropperful 2 times a day for prevention, or 3 times a day for treatment. Best times to take the herbs are when you get up in the morning, and in the afternoon between 4 and 6 o'clock. Herbs should preferably not be taken with meals.
Precaution: This product is taken internally only. Do not use as eyedrops on the eyes.