Herbal Travel Remedies: Boost Your Wellness on the Go + Free Printable Checklist
Traveling can be exciting and full of adventure, but it also comes with its own set of challenges. For many, including myself, travel often leads to disruptions in sleep, immune challenges, or occasional digestive issues due to changes in routine. It’s important to remember that the immune system is not necessarily "weakened" during these times—rather, it’s doing its best to adapt to new environments and defend the body against unfamiliar germs. Sometimes, it just needs a little extra support to do its job effectively. Over time, I’ve learned that herbal remedies can be incredibly helpful in addressing these common travel concerns. In this blog, I want to share some of the remedies that have become staples for me and can help make your journeys smoother and more enjoyable.
Herbal Travel Essentials
1. Ginger for Digestive Health
Traveling often means trying new foods, which is one of the best parts of any trip. However, our stomachs don’t always agree with these culinary adventures. Ginger is a fantastic remedy for any digestive upset. Whether it’s nausea, bloating, or an unsettled stomach, a ginger tea or even candied ginger works wonders. Keeping a small pouch of dried ginger slices in your bag can be a lifesaver.
2. Lavender for Stress and Sleep
Long flights and changes in time zones can wreak havoc on sleep patterns. To combat this, lavender is an excellent ally. A small roller of lavender essential oil or even a sachet of dried lavender under your pillow can help you relax and find rest, even in less-than-ideal sleeping conditions. A spritz of lavender mist on hotel pillows can also create a calming environment.
3. Echinacea for Immune Support
Airports, airplanes, and crowded tourist spots can be breeding grounds for germs. To support your immune system, taking Echinacea tincture a few days before traveling and continuing while on the road can be incredibly effective. It’s a great way to help your body defend against colds and other illnesses.
4. Peppermint for Headaches and Energy
Travel can be tiring, and headaches from dehydration or lack of sleep aren’t uncommon. A peppermint essential oil roller applied to the temples and neck provides quick relief. Plus, the invigorating scent of peppermint is perfect for a midday energy boost when jet lag sets in.
5. Chamomile for Calm and Digestion
Chamomile is a versatile herb that can help with both anxiety and digestive issues. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed or need help digesting a heavy meal, chamomile tea is a gentle and effective solution. Packing a few tea bags in your carry-on can be incredibly useful.
6. Arnica for Aches and Pains
Exploring new places often means a lot of walking, hiking, or other physical activities. For sore muscles and minor bruises, arnica salve can be a helpful addition to your travel kit. It’s easy to apply and provides quick relief, allowing you to keep moving.
7. Elderberry for Long-Term Immune Strength
For prolonged travel or trips during flu season, elderberry syrup is a must-have. It’s rich in antioxidants and helps strengthen immune defenses. While carrying a bottle of syrup isn’t always convenient, elderberry lozenges are a compact and travel-friendly alternative.
8. Lemon Balm for Mood and Digestive Harmony
Lemon balm is a wonderful herb for uplifting mood and soothing digestive discomfort. When travel gets overwhelming, a cup of lemon balm tea or a dropper of tincture can help you feel more balanced and at ease.
Preparing for the Journey
Before any trip, it’s a good idea to make a checklist of the herbal remedies you might need based on your destination and type of travel. For instance, if you’re headed to a tropical location, consider adding citronella or lemongrass essential oil to ward off mosquitoes. For colder destinations, focus on immune-supporting herbs like elderberry and Echinacea.
Small travel kits with pre-measured herbs, tinctures, or oils in TSA-friendly containers are an excellent way to stay prepared. Having these natural remedies on hand can make all the difference when dealing with unexpected travel hiccups.
Final Thoughts
Herbal remedies are a great way to support your health and well-being while traveling. Whether it’s giving your immune system a little extra boost, easing digestive discomfort, or helping you relax and sleep better, there’s an herb for nearly every travel challenge. If you’re new to herbal remedies, start with a few staples like ginger, lavender, and chamomile, and build your travel kit from there. Here’s to healthier and happier travels!
Click Here For Your Free Printable Herbal Travel Checklist
Sources
American Herbalists Guild: www.americanherbalistsguild.com
Rosemary Gladstar’s Herbal Recipes for Vibrant Health
“The Complete Herbal Tutor” by Anne McIntyre
HerbalGram: The Journal of the American Botanical Council
Studies from the Journal of Herbal Medicine
