Travel can be stressful, and when combined with exposure to new peoples and environments increases the chances of becoming sick. Not everyone has the time or inclination to visit a doctor, particularly if they are in a foreign country where they aren’t fluent in the local language, so below are some essential oils for travel that can help you deal with common travel health issues such as upset stomach, soreness and jet lag.
Lavender
This essential oil is prized for its ability to combat the restlessness that is common due to traversing different time zones. Lavender has a very pleasant aroma that is known to calm the nerves. When combined with tea and consumed in the evening, you will dramatically increase the quality of your sleep, ensuring that when you get up the next day you’re ready to get the most out of your vacation or business trip. Aside from adding it to a cup of tea, lavender can also be massaged into the skin, preferably by a trained masseuse.
Citrus Oil
Citrus oil, along with lemongrass, grapefruit or orange, does an outstanding job of freshening up a room and getting rid of unwanted scents. You will want to keep it in a spray bottle when arriving to your destination just in case you need it. However, citrus isn’t limited to its usage as an air freshener; it can also be used to disinfect surfaces to ensure you’re not exposed to any unwanted bacteria, fungus or viruses, and when preparing drinks such as tequila, vodka or tonic it can be used to enhance them.
Peppermint
Few essential oils can match peppermint when it comes to relieving indigestion, diarrhea, soreness or jet lag. It has an aroma which is very refreshing, and when massaged into the feet after a day of extensive walking will make you feel wonderful. Peppermint can also be consumed orally, preferably via veggie capsules, which will provide your gastrointestinal system with much needed support in the morning.
Tea Tree
Tea tree oil is extremely potent, especially for those visiting tropical destinations where they will be exposed to sunburn, insect bites and sores. It acts as a dynamic antiseptic and antibacterial agent and is a natural repellant of insects. Whether you sustain cuts or scratches from hiking through a jungle or a mountain, tea tree oil will make sure your body is protected.
Frankincense
Frankincense is indispensable for savvy travelers and is one of the most versatile items on this list. It can alleviate skin which is dry, along with stress, exhaustion and headaches. Equally important, it will maintain the strength of your immune system, which will be constantly tested as you travel through airports, hotels, and restaurants. To use frankincense, you will want to put a single drop beneath your tongue, as doing so will provide immediate support. Those who have had an excessive amount to drink while traveling will find that frankincense is also useful in quickly getting rid of hang overs, due to its ability to remove toxins from both the kidneys and liver.