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.
- 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!)
- Peppermint
Another multipurpose oil that is brilliant for:
- improving headaches
- alleviating muscle tension
- eliminating fatigue
- sharpening mental focus
- reducing congestion
- soothing digestive discomfort
- 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
- 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
- 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.
