Dark circles can indeed be bothersome, and your situation sounds like it involves a mixture of lifestyle factors. From a Siddha-Ayurvedic perspective, dark circles often relate to an imbalance in the doshas, particularly an aggravated Vata and possibly Pitta. Your irregular sleep, stress levels, and time spent on screens can contribute significantly to this imbalance.
First, consider your daily routine to support Vata balance. Try going to bed and waking up at consistent times, even on weekends. Establishing a rhythm can significantly help regulate your body’s internal clock. Create a restful environment for sleep by dimming the lights and avoiding screens at least an hour before bed, this helps calm Vata’s fast-moving, variable nature.
Dietary adjustments can also provide relief, as nutrition is deeply tied to the function of all seven tissue systems (sapta dhatus). Drink plenty of warm water throughout the day to keep tissues hydrated and help flush toxins. Incorporate more warm, moist foods that pacify Vata, like cooked vegetables, which are more agreeable than raw foods like cucumbers for this purpose.
In terms of herbs, consider using Amla (Indian Gooseberry) and Ashwagandha, which help nourish the Rasa (plasma) and Seven Dhatus. Amla, rich in Vitamin C, helps rebuild collagen, vital for under-eye skin structure. One teaspoon of Amla powder with warm water taken daily can be effective.
Massage the under-eye area gently with a few drops of warm castor oil or ghee, known to soothe the skin and promote tissue health. Dab lightly and leave on overnight to nourish the delicate skin.
Since stress is a factor, make it a priority to practice relaxation techniques. Yoga and Pranayama can stabilize the Prana Vayu and ease mental strain. The Nadi Shodhana (Alternate Nostril Breathing) practice is particularly beneficial for calming the mind and balancing energies.
Lastly, ensure you are eating balanced meals with adequate leafy greens and oranges which support liver health and reduce stress, avoiding excessive caffeine. With these holistic measures, you should begin to see some improvement in those circles under the eyes.
