Bilirubin, a breakdown product of blood and heme, is one cause of dark circles around the eye. Recently it was discovered that a small group of plants are known to produce bilirubin and hence contain a mechanism to control production and degradation of the compound. An extract of Strelitzia, a plant that produces bilirubin, was found to degrade bilirubin solutions. Topical applications of the plant in vivo decreased dark circles and improved various other parameters of the skin. By taking advantage of plants’ biochemical pathways and products, we are able to improve skin conditions and augment the body’s natural processes.