How to get rid of dark circles - Can Ayurveda Help with My Constantly Tired Eyes?

Question

For the past few months, I’ve been struggling with dark circles, and no matter what I do, they just won’t go away. I used to think they were just from lack of sleep, but even when I get enough rest, they are still there. They make me look older and tired all the time, even when I feel fine. I’ve tried under-eye creams, cold tea bags, and even some DIY remedies, but nothing seems to make a real difference.

I’ve heard that Ayurveda believes dark circles are linked to an imbalance in the body. Could this be due to poor digestion, stress, or toxins in my system? I also have mild digestive issues like bloating and occasional constipation—could these be making my dark circles worse? I read somewhere that Pitta imbalance can cause hyperpigmentation—does that apply to dark circles as well?

Another thing I noticed is that my dark circles get worse when I spend too much time on screens or when I eat a lot of salty or processed foods. Could my diet be a major factor? Are there specific Ayurvedic foods or herbs that help cleanse the system and reduce dark circles naturally? Would things like Amla juice or Triphala help?

I’m also interested in Ayurvedic external remedies. Are there specific oils, herbal pastes, or cooling treatments that can help lighten dark circles over time? I’ve heard of Kumkumadi oil—would that work for this?

If anyone has successfully reduced dark circles using Ayurveda, I’d love to hear what worked best. What daily habits, remedies, or treatments made the biggest difference? How long does it usually take to see results with Ayurvedic treatments for dark circles?

Dr Sujal Patil · Accepted Answer

Ayurveda sees dark circles (hyperpigmentation under the eyes) as a sign of Pitta and Vata imbalances, often linked to stress, poor digestion, toxin buildup (Ama), and lack of nourishment. Since you also experience bloating and constipation, weak Agni (digestive fire) could be a contributing factor. Supporting digestion with Triphala, Amla juice, or warm herbal teas like fennel and cumin tea can help detox the body and improve skin clarity.

Diet plays a huge role—excess salty, processed, and spicy foods can aggravate Pitta and worsen dark circles. Focus on cooling and hydrating foods like cucumber, coconut water, aloe vera juice, and ghee to reduce inflammation and nourish the skin. Reducing screen time, caffeine, and late-night meals can also help prevent dark circles from getting worse. Daily consumption of soaked almonds and walnuts supports skin health by providing essential nutrients.

For external Ayurvedic remedies, Kumkumadi oil is one of the best treatments for under-eye pigmentation—apply a drop gently under the eyes before bed. Rose water, aloe vera gel, or sandalwood paste have a cooling effect that reduces Pitta-related discoloration. A homemade under-eye pack with Turmeric + Aloe Vera + Raw Milk can also help lighten dark circles over time. Cold milk compresses or placing cotton pads soaked in rose water can provide an instant refreshing effect.

To see results, consistency is key—it may take 4-6 weeks of regular dietary changes, herbal support, and external treatments to notice a difference.

Dr. Harsha Joy · Answer

Dark circles in Ayurveda are often linked to Pitta and Vata imbalances, poor digestion, toxin buildup (Ama), and stress. Weak Agni (digestive fire) and sluggish liver function can lead to nutrient deficiencies, worsening under-eye pigmentation. Since you experience bloating and occasional constipation, detoxifying with Triphala or Amla juice can help cleanse the system and improve skin health. Avoid excessive salty, processed, and spicy foods, as they aggravate Pitta and cause water retention, making dark circles more prominent. Hydrating foods like cucumber, coconut water, and ghee nourish the skin from within. Externally, Kumkumadi oil, rose water-soaked cotton pads, or sandalwood paste can provide cooling and brightening effects. Massaging the under-eye area with almond oil or a mix of castor oil and aloe vera can help reduce darkness over time. Limiting screen exposure, managing stress with meditation, and ensuring deep sleep are equally important. Ayurvedic treatments take time, but with consistency in diet, detoxification, and external care, noticeable improvement can be seen within a few weeks.

How to get rid of dark circles - Can Ayurveda Help with My Constantly Tired Eyes? - #16490

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