I love hiking and travelling, and as much as I’d like to take my herbal dispensary with me, I can’t.
Us traveller’s face a myriad of things that aren’t always in our control. Being stuck on a flight with a snotty and sneezing person next to us, for example. Or the fear of flying. Jet lag. Different eating and drinking habits. Bad weather and exposure to all elements. A difference of option with your fellow travellers. The list of travel situations that test the body and mind is seemingly endless. That’s why I’ve picked the must-pack natural first aid for your next trip.
Antiviral herbal formula – My favourite ingredients to look for are herbs such as Echinacea, Andrographis, Astragalus and Elderberry, along with extra vitamins and minerals such as Zinc and Vitamin C. When they are put together, they make a powerful antiviral combination for travelling.
High-potency multivitamin and mineral formula – This provides good complex nutrients the body needs to function at an optimal level.
Electrolytes are essential minerals – like sodium, calcium, magnesium and potassium, that are vital to many key functions in the body. They support hydration and help the body produce energy. They’re also responsible for stimulating muscle contractions, including your heart. It is especially important to replenish both water and electrolytes when hiking and you may need to drink more depending upon the temperature and the intensity of the hike. Signs of dehydration include dizziness and lose of coordination.
Shelf-stable probiotics – Probiotics are phenomenal at supporting the immune system, aiding proper digestive function and reducing gut inflammation. They may also assist in cases of constipation and diarrhoea, especially those associated with travel.
Digestive enzymes – these can greatly alleviate bloating, gas, and other digestive complaints associated with poor digestion while traveling and indulging on new foods.
Herbal Teas – I always pack a selection of Ginger, Chamomile and Fennel
- Ginger is great for motion sickness, supports digestion, reduces nausea, and anti-inflammatory.
- Fennel tea may aid healthy digestion, and reduce gas, bloating, and stomach cramps.
- Chamomile is a relaxing drink at night.
Lavender Oil – Lavender is a popular essential oil to relieve pain from headaches and a favourite for treating bug bites. This oil (unlike most other essential oils) can be applied directly to bites.
Water Filter – LifeStraw Personal Water Filter is lightweight and compact, which makes it perfect for hiking. You can drink directly from lakes, rivers, or your water bottle. It filters up to 1000 gallons (4,000 litres) to 0.2 microns, which removes dangerous bacteria and protozoa.
Healthy snacks – Good quality protein or granola bars with low added sugar and high fibre. Check out Green Bar they arepacked with superfoods, antioxidants and fibre. Fresh snacks – Snow peas, carrots and mini cucumbers are great for some added nutrition and stay fresh without refrigeration.
Wash hands often. This includes before and after eating. If you’re unable to wash your hands, a hand sanitizer with at least 60 percent alcohol may help reduce bacteria and germs.
Don’t forget to check and replenish your First Aid Kit before embarking on any hikes, camping or multiday hikes.
Most importantly, pack your sense of adventure, curiosity and humour!
Travelling and multiday hikes are exciting,
they take months of training, researching, planning, organising (shopping for new gear) and packing. It’s not uncommon to feel overwhelmed with your ‘To do’ list. Don’t let stress derail your holiday, there are ways to prevent and manage stress with simple and effective naturopathic approaches such as adaptogenic herbal formulas.
As with any supplements or remedies, consult with your naturopath before making changes to your regular routine.
I often get asked “Can I buy these supplements at the shops?”
At Sustainable Health & Wellness Clinic we stock ‘Practitioner-only’ supplements that are backed by scientific research and evidence for their effectiveness. Not all supplements are created equal, many supplements sold off the shelf are much too low for a significant effect and are well below therapeutic range.
When you plan and have the right natural first aid in your travel kit, you can be rest-assured that you have most of your health needs covered and be able to enjoy your amazing adventure illness free.
If you experience joint pain and inflammation, reach out today to make a consultation. We can discover the triggers and discuss inflammation fighting foods and strategies to help relieve your pain and improve your mobility.
Want to know more?
Get in touch today to make an appointment with our experienced naturopath Cassandra at Sustainable Health and Wellness Clinic.
