Travel Kit of Herbal Remedies for Seasonal Ailments & Depression

When hitting the road or taking to the skies, it’s easy to overlook how travel affects our health. From seasonal sniffles and sore muscles to stress and sleep disturbances, the journey itself can challenge our well-being. Adding the changing weather, disrupted sleep schedules, and unfamiliar environments, and you’ve got a perfect storm for seasonal ailments and mental health dips.

But what if you had a travel kit of scientifically backed herbal remedies to ease the journey? This blog will cover the essentials of a compact, holistic wellness kit to support you on the go. We’ll discuss the herbs and spices to include, the types of remedies to make or buy, recipes to create your own, and high-quality products you can purchase.

Types of Herbal Remedies to Include in Your Kit

Herbal remedies come in various forms, each suited for specific uses and benefits. Here’s a breakdown of the most practical types to include in your travel kit:

1. Tinctures

• What they are: Alcohol- or glycerin-based extracts of herbs.

• Uses: Fast-acting and convenient for internal use.

• Example: Ashwagandha tincture to reduce travel-induced anxiety and balance cortisol.

2. Essential Oils

• What they are: Highly concentrated plant extracts obtained through steam distillation.

• Uses: Used for aromatherapy, applied topically (when diluted), or added to sprays.

• Example: Lavender essential oil to promote relaxation and sleep in unfamiliar spaces.

3. Salves & Balms

• What they are: Thick ointments made from herbs, oils, and wax.

• Uses: Topical application to soothe sore muscles, dry skin, and bug bites.

• Example: Arnica salve for sore, achy muscles after long flights.

4. Herbal Teas & Infusions

• What they are: Dried herbs steeped in hot water.

• Uses: Consumed as a drink for internal support.

• Example: Peppermint tea for upset stomachs caused by travel-induced nausea.

5. Powders

• What they are: Finely ground herbal blends.

• Uses: Added to drinks, smoothies, or taken directly.

• Example: Adaptogen blends (like reishi or lion’s mane) to support mental clarity and focus during travel.

6. Capsules & Tablets

• What they are: Dried powdered herbs or extracts encapsulated in pill form.

• Uses: Convenient for daily use.

• Example: Elderberry capsules to support the immune system while traveling.

Essential Herbs & Spices to Include

1. Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)

• Primary Benefit: Reduces anxiety, balances cortisol, and promotes calm.

• Scientific Support: Multiple studies have confirmed its adaptogenic effects, supporting mental wellness and reducing stress-related symptoms.

• Remedy: Bring an ashwagandha tincture for quick anxiety support during long flights.

2. Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla)

• Primary Benefit: Promotes relaxation, improves sleep, and reduces anxiety.

• Scientific Support: Chamomile has been shown to reduce mild-to-moderate anxiety in clinical studies.

• Remedy: Pack chamomile tea bags for evening relaxation.

3. Peppermint (Mentha piperita)

• Primary Benefit: Eases nausea, headaches, and digestive upset.

• Scientific Support: Peppermint oil has been clinically proven to relieve symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and nausea.

• Remedy: Use a peppermint essential oil roller for headaches or pack peppermint tea for digestion.

4. Ginger (Zingiber officinale)

• Primary Benefit: Relieves nausea, supports immune function, and aids digestion.

• Scientific Support: Research shows that ginger is effective for motion sickness and nausea.

• Remedy: Include ginger chews or capsules to combat motion sickness on planes, trains, or boats.

5. Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)

• Primary Benefit: Promotes relaxation and improves sleep quality.

• Scientific Support: Studies show that inhaling lavender essential oil can reduce anxiety and improve sleep.

• Remedy: Add a lavender essential oil roll-on to your kit for calming aromatherapy.

6. Elderberry (Sambucus nigra)

• Primary Benefit: Immune system support.

• Scientific Support: Clinical trials have shown elderberry to reduce the duration and severity of colds and flu.

• Remedy: Pack elderberry syrup or capsules to boost immunity when flying.

DIY Recipes for Your Herbal Travel Kit

Travel-Sized Calming Tincture

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp dried ashwagandha root

• 2 tbsp dried chamomile flowers

• 1 cup vodka or glycerin (for alcohol-free)

Instructions:

1. Add the dried herbs to a small glass jar.

2. Pour in the vodka or glycerin to cover the herbs completely.

3. Seal and store in a dark cabinet for 4-6 weeks, shaking daily.

4. Strain and transfer to a 2 oz amber dropper bottle for travel.

Usage: Take 1-2 dropperfuls as needed for stress and anxiety.

Muscle-Soothing Arnica Salve

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp dried arnica flowers

• 1/2 cup olive oil

• 1 tbsp beeswax pastilles

• 5 drops eucalyptus essential oil

Instructions:

1. Heat the arnica flowers in olive oil on low for 2-3 hours (use a double boiler).

2. Strain the oil and add it to a heat-safe bowl.

3. Melt the beeswax and combine it with the infused oil.

4. Add essential oil, pour into a 1 oz tin, and let it cool.

Usage: Apply to sore muscles after long flights or hikes.

Anti-Nausea Ginger Chews

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup fresh ginger, grated

• 1/2 cup honey or agave

• 1/2 cup water

Instructions:

1. Simmer ginger in water for 30 minutes.

2. Strain and mix with honey.

3. Continue cooking on low until thick.

4. Pour onto parchment paper, cool, and cut into small chews.

Usage: Eat one chew before or during travel for motion sickness relief.

Recommended Products for Your Travel Kit

If you’re not the DIY type, here are my suggestions for purchasing items for your travel kit.

• Ashwagandha Tincture: Herb Pharm Ashwagandha Extract

• Peppermint Essential Oil Roller: Plant Therapy Peppermint Roll-On

• Lavender Essential Oil: Plant Therapy Lavender Essential Oil

• Elderberry Syrup: Gaia Herbs Black Elderberry Syrup

• Ginger Chews: Prince of Peace Ginger Chews

• Deep Sleep Tea: Traditional Medicinals Nighty Night Tea

• Travel Diffuser with Immune Support Essential Oils: Travel USB Essential Oil Diffuser with Plant Therapy Germ Fighter Essential Oil Blend

• Lavender Pillow Spray: This Works Deep Sleep Pillow Spray

• Oregano Oil Capsules: Gaia Herbs Oil of Oregano Capsules

Pro Tips for Packing Your Herbal Travel Kit

• Use TSA-Approved Bottles: For liquids, ensure they’re under 3.4 oz (100 ml) to comply with TSA regulations.

• Label Everything: Clearly label dropper bottles, tins, and capsules to avoid confusion.

• Waterproof Bag: Use a waterproof, leak-proof bag to prevent spills.

• Portable Tea Infuser Bottle: Bring a travel tea strainer or infuser bottle for fresh herbal teas on the go.

Conclusion

A well-prepared herbal remedy travel kit offers peace of mind and natural support for seasonal ailments, anxiety, and overall wellness. By carrying scientifically backed herbs in the form of tinctures, teas, salves, and essential oils, you’ll have everything you need for a healthy, happy journey.

Sources:

1. Lopresti, A. L., et al. (2019). “The effects of ashwagandha on stress, anxiety, and overall well-being: A systematic review.” Journal of Clinical Psychology.

2. Blumenthal, M., et al. (2020). “The effectiveness of peppermint oil for irritable bowel syndrome: A systematic review.” Gastroenterology Journal.

3. Kennedy, D. O., et al. (2011). “Chamomile for mild-to-moderate anxiety: A double-blind, placebo-controlled study.” Phytomedicine.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only. Please consult with a healthcare provider before using any herbal remedies. While the remedies shared here are supported by scientific research, they are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any medical conditions. Always consult with a healthcare provider before using herbal remedies, especially if you have existing health concerns, are pregnant, or are taking medication.