Historically the seeds and bark of horse chestnut used for the treatment of piles (haemorrhoids) and as an external application to slow healing ulcers. In addition , the plant contains a material called aescin, which is very useful for the treatment of oedema, varicose veins and the swelling in bruises. There is good evidence to show that it helps remove the dark circle under eyes. Uses are listed as astringent, expectorant, treatment of leg ulcers, varicose veins, haemorrhoids, tonic, ‘anticouperose’(CAS: 8053-39-2/EINECS:232-497-7)