Five essential oils to take on holiday

Travel is thrilling, but it can sometimes be accompanied by fatigue, stress, sleep disturbances, illness, insect bites and upset tummies – which is why we always go prepared!

Our favourite natural remedies to pack are pure, therapeutic grade essential oils. They’re gentle, safe when used correctly and effective for a wide range of minor conditions.

These five oils are a must for your travel kit, especially if you have kids. Start with them and add to your travel (and daily!) collection as you become more comfortable with their benefits.

1. Lavender

A great all-rounder that assists with:

• sleep and relaxation
• reducing stress and anxiety
  • soothing sunburn, itchy bites, and stings
• helping to heal skin rashes, cuts, and wounds
• easing earache (apply behind the ear, never in the ear!)

2. Peppermint

Another multipurpose oil that is brilliant for:

• improving headaches
• alleviating muscle tension
• eliminating fatigue
• sharpening mental focus
• reducing congestion
• soothing digestive discomfort

3. Tea tree

A firm favourite, known for its purifying (antiseptic and anti-microbial) properties. Use tea tree on holiday to:

• soothe insect bites and sunburn
• help heal cuts, wounds, and blemishes
• sanitise hands and surfaces
• repel insects

4. Lemon

This, and other citrus oils such as grapefruit and orange, are fantastic for:

• increasing energy
• elevating mood
• improving mental focus
• cleaning and purifying surfaces
• eliminating odours
• easing congestion
• reduce allergies and hayfever

5. Frankincense

Known as “the King of oils”, frankincense has many roles. Use it when traveling to:

• ease inflammation and dryness, especially of the skin following windburn or sunburn
• calm the mind and induce feelings of peace and relaxation
• reduce fatigue
• improve memory and concentration
• support immunity

Tips for using essential oils

• Use the best quality essential oils you can afford – cheaper varieties tend to be full of fake ingredients and are less effective than more costly brand such as doTERRA or Young Living. Look for “100% pure” and “therapeutic grade” on the labels.
• Do not ingest essential oils – rather use them topically or aromatically (by diffusing, inhaling, or spritzing around the room).
• Some oils can cause skin reactions when applied directly. To avoid this, mix a few drops of essential oil in a carrier oil such as grapeseed oil, jojoba oil or fractionated coconut oil before placing on to the skin (a good ratio to use is 1:4).
• Essential oils must never be used near the eyes, inner nose, or ears.

• If you’re pregnant, nursing, have a serious health condition or are taking prescription medications, always check with your medical practitioner before using essential oils.