Despite all our efforts to stay healthy and avoid sickness while travelling, let’s get this straight – everyone get’s sick. And I’m talking all kinds of sick. From experience – there have been nasty colds in freezing Ireland, food poisoning in Northern Thailand, parasites in El Salvador and well, the shits, all in-between. Travelling exposes us to to a variety of opportunities that can compromise our immune system and increase the risk 10-fold.
I will say this, like an old record, I wish I knew back then what I know now about these simple remedies that I could have carried in my backpack all those years to help fight the battle. Whether you are travelling for business or pleasure, these are always good to have on hand.
Probiotics
Probiotics are my number 1 recommendation for a healthy gut environment, which is essential for your entire immune system. Taking probiotics throughout travel will help maintain a healthy balance of good bacteria, keep your immunity up and digestive system operating healthy.
Ginger chews
I discovered this lovely chew while Cat-Skiing in the middle of the nowhere in the mountains past Pemberton last year. We had 10 people crammed in a SnowCat scaling bumpy terrain with diesel exhaust slipping through the windows, yuck. But to our rescue, our Ski-guide passed around ginger chews and I was so impressed! This is a powerhouse herb – and with it’s anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties this is something I always have on hand. Ginger is excellent for nausea, migraines, digestion, aches, motion sickness and indigestion.
Tiger balm
Ahhh the heavens bring us Tiger Balm. From my first days in SE Asia this magical stuff never leaves my purse. Excellent for temporary relief of sore mucles, joint aches, pains and bug bites! Careful though – this is powerful stuff, don’t go touching your eye’s after use – ouch!
Coconut oil
Bless coconuts. Coconut oil can be used for so many things – there is an entire book out there written about it. Containing antimicrobial, antifungal, antiviral, antibacterial antioxidant benefits – it’s no wonder its called the miracle oil! Travelling tips: eye-make up remover, hair conditioner, toothpaste, sunscreen, moisturizer, apply to cuts, heck eat a tablespoon once/day for a healthly source of fat intake and a boost of energy!
Activated charcoal
My first greeting with this stuff was in Northern Thailand after some not so good carrot curry and spring rolls. This supplement is good for food poisoning, gluten reaction, stomach bugs, gas, bloating and diarrhea. Be sure to take with lots and lots of water to avoid dehydration.
Rescue remedy
Loose your luggage? Realize you left your favourite bikini hanging on the railing? Hangover causing your heart to beat outside of your chest? Easy tiger – no need to worry. This may no be that magic potion to make you feel like batman – but it will keep the anxiety at bay. This blend of flower essences is sure to make you calm and chill out. If focusing on your breath does not help to calm you down, put a few drops of rescue remedy under your tongue and close your eyes.
Lavender
Following rescue remedy and staying on the trail of aromatherapy – we come to my last traveling buddy. Lavender essential oil. This wonderful essence is another recommendation I give to almost all clients. The nervous system and lavender go hand-in-hand. When you are feeling stressed or can’t sleep, place a few droplets in the palm of your hand and rub them together followed by 3 deep inhalations with your hands over your nose. Bliss.
Thank you Meghan! Share her journey as it comes, exploring all coasts, mountains, jungles, cities and surf! Winding through farmers markets, organic farms and hidden gems with tips and tricks for the health conscious mind. http://www.meghantrompetterrhn.com/
