Does the very thought of traveling send you into a tizzy? Since travel is often inevitable, why not ride the wave instead of running for cover? It is surprising how a sniff of essential oils can make the whole experience of traveling brighter and more pleasurable.
Many people complain of stress, fatigue and sickness during flights. At times of light traveling, something as minor as a car ride can make people feel queasy and drained. If you have been a frequent traveler, you would probably be familiar with problems like:
Fear of the unknown, susceptibility to illness, being away from home and change in routine are just some of the many causes of travel-related stress. If you are wondering why you keep falling sick every time you venture out, here are some factors that may help you zero in on the cause.
Prolonged periods of stress raise the level of the hormone cortisol in our blood, which in turn lowers the body’s natural immunity. This makes a person vulnerable to infections and illnesses. There is also a lack of fresh air in flight cabins and coupled with close proximity with other passengers puts us at risk for contacting contagious diseases. Germ-infested hotel rooms and stale air can cause allergies and infections. In addition, a change in diet can wreck havoc on a fragile tummy and result in discomfort and upsets.
Aromatherapy allows us to tackle these common travel woes by adopting a multi-dimensional approach. Essential oils, when used individually or in combination with other oils, can enhance immune functions, elevate the mood, support digestion and even calm down fussy kids.
Before we begin to explore how essential oils can make our travel smooth sailing, it would help to discuss how these oils are to be used. The benefits of essential oils can be delivered via various modes:
Choose essential oils that are appropriate for your problems and notice how they change the way you feel about next journey. Here is a selection of essential oils that should always be a part of your travel kit:
Eucalyptus radiata oil has strong anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties. It is a great bet for travelers who feel drained and are prone to colds and infections. Carry a vial with you and take a whiff every once in a while.
Pine oil is a sure shot remedy for sore throats, chest infections, cough, joint pains and respiratory distress. Use it as a warm compress or a hot bath for best results.
Tea tree oil, a potent antiseptic, makes for a great hand sanitizer when soap and water are not available. Rub a drop or two between your hands after using public washrooms or touching contaminated objects. It is also an effective remedy for insect bites.
Ravensara oil is an ideal choice for relief against pain, muscle cramps and sprains. It also helps boost natural immunity. Use it in bath water or tie an oil-infused washcloth on the showerhead.
Lavender oil is well known for its de-stressing and calming properties. It helps in regularizing sleep patterns and relaxes the mind. Lavender is also effective against colds and flu. Use it with a steam inhaler or put a few drops of it on a tissue and tuck it under your pillow. You may also apply an infused washcloth over your face to open up blocked sinuses.
Mandarin oil is a natural antiseptic, anti-spasmodic, digestive, antidepressant, sedative and nervous relaxant. It is a one-stop solution for people that are bogged down by nervousness and stress during travel. Its diuretic properties reduce bloating and water retention, which is a common complaint during travel. Inhale from a tissue that has been infused with a few drops of the oil.
Palo Santo oil is known to calm down the mind and body. It is highly beneficial in relieving stress and enhancing immunity. Sniffing this oil during travel helps one feel positive, peaceful and upbeat. It also acts as a natural insect repellant.
Citrus oils like grapefruit and lemon can uplift the mood, relieve exhaustion and freshen up the environment. Carry a diffuser along when you stay at hotels and let these zesty oils fight off the stale, germ-infested air. Lemon oil is also known to be effective against fever and malaise.
Peppermint oil is effective in curing indigestion, vomiting, nausea and flatulence. It may be used in combination with massage oils or in a steam inhaler.
Spearmint oil boosts alertness and concentration, cleanses and detoxifies the body, supports digestion and acts as a decongestant. It is especially helpful in alleviating headaches and sinusitis. Use it in a diffuser or as massage oil.
Geranium oil possesses several healing properties. Apart from its anti-microbial actions, it is also effective as a deodorant, mood enhancer, hormone regulator and anti-worm tonic. Use it in a vaporizer, bath water or in combination with other oils. It is a worthwhile addition to your health kit.
Fennel oil helps soothe the digestive system and gives relief from indigestion and flatulence. Put a few drops of the oil in warm water, soak a hand towel and apply on the stomach.
Essential oils can be extremely beneficial for those who have to travel with kids often. Young children can get cranky and irritable during a long journey and may even fall sick due to change in climate and physical stress. Here are some essential oils that can help your kids overcome the stress of traveling:
Be it for work or for leisure, traveling is supposed to be fun and not a cumbersome obligation. With a little help from essential oils, you can experience the joy of traveling without having to worry about your health and wellbeing.
Cristina Proaño de Carrión was born and grew up in the Ecuadorian capital of Quito. Many of her memories are related to scents of her homeland. As a professional aromatherapist since 1994, She received her Complementary Health Education Diploma in Aromatherapy in 1997 from the Kevala Center in the U.K., and advanced her studies in 1998 when she took the International Training Program in Essential Oils at Purdue University in Indiana. Proaño de Carrión has more than 14 years of experience formulating aromatherapy products for the spa, fitness and hospitality industry and speaking with North and South American audiences on television and radio as well as in seminars and workshops. She is eager to share her successful experience and the therapeutic values of her homeland's pure healing ingredients.
