Most people tend to associate the use of essential oils with the times when they’re having a relaxing aromatherapy massage or when they want to create a fragrant atmosphere in their home with a diffuser. But if you’re off on your travels, it’s also a great idea to pack a few essential oils to take with you. They have many different properties and can be used for a range of conditions, as well as for their olfactory benefits.
Of course, you don’t want to saddle yourself with too much extra weight, so decide carefully which essential oils to take with you – some are more versatile than others. The bonus is that they all come in small bottles, so you can take them in your carry-on bag and still get through security without too much drama.
Bring along a small bottle of carrier oil – such as olive or almond oil – so you always have the possibility of making a mix for use in massage. Adding a few drops of your favorite essential oils means you’ll be able to get rid of any tension caused by a long journey. Massage away the aches in your legs or shoulders, or better still, share a ten minute massage session with a travel buddy.
You may already have your favorite essential oils. If not, thanks to their versatility, the three oils below should be more than enough to see you through any trip.
Lavender
If you find it hard to get to sleep in a strange bed, then lavender is the oil for you. It’s calming and helps you relax, so is ideal for winding down at the end of the day. Lavender is also useful for times when you’re feeling anxious. If you feel jittery at take-off or landing, apply a few drops to your wrists when you first board a plane and then again when the pilot announces they’ve begun the descent back down to earth.
Citronella
For anyone who’s pestered by mosquitoes, citronella makes for a great, natural bug spray. You can put it on your skin, but also put a few drops on linen or fabrics in the room you’re staying in to discourage any insects that might be hanging around.
It’s also said to be an anti-inflammatory, so citronella can be applied with a carrier oil to soothe any swollen or aching joints or help to calm a rash. With its zingy, lemony smell citronella also makes a handy deodorizer, so if any of the accommodation you end up in smells a little musty, sprinkle a few drops around.
Thieves Oil
This is actually a blend of four different essential oils – clove, rosemary, cinnamon bark and eucalyptus. Legend has it that it was first mixed by French thieves in the 15th century who wanted to protect themselves when robbing victims of the plague. Its renowned for its cleansing properties and also because it supports the immune system, so again very handy for traveling.
Protect yourself from other people’s germs on an airplane, bus or train, and use in a little water to wipe down eating utensils if you’re a little doubtful about their cleanliness. You can even add a little thieves oil to hot water and it’ll help soothe a sore throat.
When you’re traveling make sure to eat as healthily as you can and get enough sleep, fresh air and exercise along the way. Combined with your travel selection of go-to essential oils, this will help you get the most out of every trip you make.
Useful piece of information. No sure if they allow liquid on planes thought…some airlines are too stringent these days.
I guess moderate quantity should be good enough to carry.