The present invention provides topical formulations having an autophagy stimulating and/or heme oxygenase and activating/triggering effect on human skin for cosmetic and pharmaceutical use. Furthermore, the present invention provides topical formulations that trigger production of VEGF-C, reduce melanin synthesis and boost energy and cell function. Moreover, the present invention provides a new process for producing a herbal composition comprising a mixture of components of Bellis perennis L. and optionally Hieracium pilosella by aqueous extraction and the herbal composition comprising a mixture of components produced by the process of the present invention. The pharmaceutical formulations according to the present invention may be used for the treatment or prevention of dark circles under the eye and/or puffy eyes. The herbal composition according to the present invention may also be used in a cosmetic formulation for the cosmetic treatment or prevention of dark circles under the eye and/or puffy eyes.
