What Does a Naturopath Pack in Their Travel Kit?
International travel is back baby!
It’s been years since overseas escapades were the norm though - so maybe we’ve forgotten that along with travel comes the dreaded trap of falling ill the minute we step off of a plane… or how common it is to succumb to the dreaded ‘gastro’ when visiting foreign destinations. A little preparation can go a long way when it comes to reducing your risk and a travel wellbeing kit can help to minimise any interruptions to that much-needed holiday.
In my amateur days of jet-setting to foreign lands, I would google away and then head to my local pharmacy to pick up things like Gastro-stop and Travelan, which I thought were the answer (spoiler alert - they weren’t). With further travel and my Naturopathic degree under my belt, I progressively upgraded my go-to list after experiencing the likes of seasickness, gastroenteritis, colds & flus whilst travelling. It now includes the following:
Nasal spray: planes are notorious for spreading germs – plus that dry, recirculated air can dehydrate your mucous membranes, which are one of your first lines of defence against pathogens. A saline nasal spray with xylitol or carrageenan can be useful to maintain that protective barrier and prevent germs from setting up camp.
Throat spray: a good quality formula that includes demulcent herbs such as licorice root or marshmallow root can soothe and coat an irritated, scratchy throat. Most formulas will also include additional herbs with antimicrobial and analgesic activity for further benefit.
Fridge-free probiotics: in case of tummy troubles abroad, look for a shelf stable probiotic that includes strains such as Saccharomyces cerevisiae (boulardii) and Lactobacillus rhamnosus (GG), which have demonstrated efficacy in reducing travellers’ diarrhoea and antibiotic associated diarrhoea.
Gastrointestinal absorbent gel: For mild gastrointestinal upset and loose stools, a good quality intestinal absorbent can help to soak up and eliminate ingested triggers. Enterosgel is my favourite, but charcoal capsules are another useful option for targeted, short-term use.
Electrolytes: If you fall ill and experience diarrhoea or excessive sweating, rehydrating and replacing those lost electrolytes is a priority. There are many travel friendly options available, including individual sachets or effervescent tablets.
Ginger tablets/capsules: when it comes to nausea or sea sickness, ginger is the go-to. Available in capsules, chewable tablets and even decent-strength candies.
Cold & flu and/or antiparasitic tablets: The herbal kind! Seek personalised advice for the best option for you when it comes to herbs, as there can be interactions and contraindications.
Lavender essential oil roller: whether it’s anxiety getting onto a plane, trying to wind down for bed in a new time zone, or pesky mosquito bites – lavender oil is a great little multitasker to have on hand.
Gastrointestinal symptoms can also be an unwanted side effect of air travel, as a result of cabin pressure changes that occur in the plane. If you find you get really bloated and gassy on long-haul flights, herbal formulations that contain ingredients such as peppermint, fennel, chamomile and lemon balm can help to alleviate discomfort and distension. Supplements are available, or you could pack some digestive blend teabags - however there are some questionable stories out there as to how hygienic that hot water on planes may (not) be! Chewing gum is something to be mindful of too, as excessive amounts may upset your gut further and can even have a laxative effect.
Still have a few months up your sleeve before you jet off? Ideally, we would assess the status of key nutrients such as iron, vitamin D and B12 at least 3 months prior to a trip if you are prone to illness or low energy. These nutrients can take a few months to replete and it is best to rectify any deficiencies prior to heading off. If you are generally susceptible to concerns such as recurrent illness, gastrointestinal upset, UTI’s or thrush, which may flare with those additional risk factors we encounter with travel, it is wise to address these in advance with a thorough holistic assessment and treatment plan.
For personalised advice and prescriptions with Mel, you can book either of the following:
Acute consultation: quick, personalised advice prior to travel (suits uncomplicated cases).
Initial consultation: to get started on longer standing nutrient deficiencies, gut health and immune concerns ahead of time.
This article is intended as general advice only and does not replace medical advice. It is recommended that you seek personalised advice specific to your individual needs prior to overseas travel. These general recommendations are not intended for those who are pregnant or for children under 12 years old.
