The eyes are among the most sensitive parts of the human body. When health issues arise, the eyes often show signs first. Dark circles can indicate underlying health conditions. So, what health issues do dark circles suggest, and how can you address them? Below, we'll break it down and share methods to alleviate dark circles.
What Health Issues Do Dark Circles Indicate?
Dark Circles: Liver
Characteristics: Pigmentation around the face and eye sockets.
Dark circles can be an external manifestation of chronic conditions like chronic liver disease. They often persist long-term in individuals with prolonged abnormal liver function or hepatomegaly. Approximately 20% of liver disease patients exhibit pigmentation on exposed areas such as the face and around the eye sockets, presenting as "dark circles."
Dark Circles: Menstruation
Characteristics: Persistent.
For women, persistent dark circles may stem from dysmenorrhea or menstrual irregularities. Traditional Chinese Medicine attributes menstrual disorders and painful periods to qi stagnation, blood stasis, or cold-induced blood stasis disrupting qi and blood circulation—manifesting as facial discoloration. Additionally, women with heavy menstrual flow or functional uterine bleeding are prone to dark circles.
Dark Circles: The Nose
Dark Circle Profile: Sneeze-Induced Dark Circles.
Dark circles may also relate to nasal issues. If you experience year-round morning sneezing and runny nose, increased blood flow near the venous sinuses under the eyes can cause dark circles. Therefore, if you suffer from allergic rhinitis, avoiding dark circles is unlikely.
Essential Eye Area Acupoints for Massage to Reduce Dark Circles:
1. Acupoints on the Eyebrows: Zanzhu (BL2) at the inner end of the eyebrow, Yuyao (BL3) at the center of the eyebrow, Sizhukong (BL4) at the outer end of the eyebrow.
2. Periorbital points: Qingming (BL1) is between the inner and outer corners of the eye, Chengqi (BL2) is at the center of the lower eyelid, Sibai (BL2) is at the center of the cheek, and Tongzi Liao (BL1) is at the outer corner of the eye.
Lymphatic drainage massage technique for dark circles:
1. Using your index, middle, and ring fingers, gently roll from the inner corner of the eye toward the outer corner and then to the temple.Then rub your palms together to warm them, press the entire palm over the eye area with the heel of the palm positioned on the lower eyelid. Hold for several seconds.
2. Press the Yingxiang acupoint beside the nostrils with your index finger, massaging for 2 seconds each time, repeating 3 to 5 times.