Knowledge is powerful; and, in our books, a healthy traveler is a happy traveler! That said, there are all kinds of reasons why you might feel out of sorts when traveling. It could be the local water supply, too many dairy or baked treats, too much eating out or alcohol, caffeine, an out of whack body clock, anxiety or simply failing to property hydrate.
Whatever the cause, whatever the reason – gastrointestinal upset is something that often goes hand in hand with traveling. There are various widely available herbal alternatives to antacids which can be used to counter these effects, making you a happy camper! And, if it’s not herbal remedies that you need, oftentimes a quick and easy to find healthy snack will do the trick. Preparation pays, so consider packing some of the following when it comes time for your next trip:
FAVORITES WITH BIG RESULTS
Peppermint
An excellent digestive relaxant, peppermint both soothes the nerves and relieves nausea. And, as an added bonus, we all know how great it is as a breath freshener! This herb can be steeped in just a few minutes and provides terrific results.
Licorice
Licorice is often added to many herbal tea mixtures in the form of powdered root to add sweetness and body to the infusion. It’s also sometimes available in a twig-like root stalk that can be chewed, or boiled in water for 15 minutes or so, to create a tea that not only soothes heartburn, but also relieves gas.
Ginger
Ginger makes an icy hot tea that can be boiled from chopped, fresh root in about 20 minutes and works wonders for nausea and motion sickness. Drying it first is ideal, but a bit more time consuming.
Cocoa
Although traditionally chewed fresh with a bit of slaked lime, to enhance absorption, cocoa can be utilized in hot tea form and is very effective in treating debilitating headaches and nausea, especially when they are a result of altitude sickness.
OTHER HERBS WORTHY OF NOTABLE MENTION
Chamomile
Chamomile possesses a light apple scent, and is a great all around soothing tea. I keep it in the house and indulge on an almost daily basis – it really is a terrific, all around great drink. Good and good for you! When it comes to this and any other tea, keep in mind that several cups of tea are often needed to feel the full medicinal effects, and hot water increases absorption.
Clove Buds
Clove buds can be carried in a bag and used as an instant breath freshener on the go. As an added bonus, they also can be used in the unfortunate event of a toothache.
Anise, Fennel, Caraway Seed
These herbs are all members of the same botanical family and are commonly used in many gin, liquor and baking recipes. All have tastes resembling licorice, with broad digestive benefits attainable through either chewing or steeping the crushed seeds.
Bananas
Bananas are good and good for you – and easy to find just about anywhere. Even better – they are a great remedy to relieve the most common digestion problems. Bananas also help to replenish potassium electrolytes after a bout of diarrhea or vomiting.
Pineapple
Another healthy snack that provides relief for troubled tummies is pineapple. Pineapple contains the highly-effective enzyme bromelain, which is a great protein digestion aid.
We never anticipate not feeling well, especially with it comes time for a much-anticipated vacation. And, while you prepare for your trip and pack your familiar “remedies,” it might not hurt to consider some of these herbal remedies as well. And, in the event you do run into tummy trouble, be sure and find some healthy snacks, too, and you’ll be on your way to feeling better in no time!
