Herbs for Travellers!Up to 80% of all travellers suffer from diarrhoea. Its well recognised that it’s caused by poor hygiene in eateries, and a change of bugs going into one’s stomach are to blame. In some countries everything you eat or drink should be boiled, bottled, or otherwise well-cooked. In any country salads are always a risk, because you never know where the raw components come from, or how well they are washed, if at all. The chefs delight, the so-called “warm salad,” is especially risky, in any country. It’s also important to be aware that some drugs or even herbal remedies you carry with you, in some countries are illegal. In fact, some of these high risk countries are best avoided altogether. The most useful herbs to have to combat travel sickness is ginger, next are galangal or tumeric. These are readily available in most countries. Ginger is the best, and is best taken as infusion or tea, just slice or grate some fresh ginger root into boiling water. Allow to infuse, and then drink four or five cups a day. You can carry it in a thermos. Failing that chewing a piece of crystalised ginger is helpful. For vomiting, an infusion of black horehound is good. An infusion of equal parts of peppermint and penny royal are good for vomiting and nausea, but dont take pennyroyal if you are pregnant. Before you leave take an echinacea infusion for a few weeks to build up your immunity. Note that I always recommend an infusion rather than capsules or tablets. There are three reasons for this, one that infusions are more reliable, in capsules or tablets you don’t know what the quality or amount is. Two, it helps keep up your fluids, which is very important especially in countries where the water is suspect. Three, an infusion will take effect more quickly. 
However there are certainly plenty of occasions when capsules are more convenient.
If you are having trouble sleeping because of jetlag, take a herbal tea sleeping mix with you. A small round metal infuser that you can drop into a mug of hot water is invaluable on your trip. Another trick is to lightly spray or sprinkle lavender on your pillow and in your sleeping bag. Lavender has a very big reputation in helping people to relax and to sleep. For insects, tea tree oil is good. Its handy for bites and cuts, it’s a natural antiseptic, and will help keep biting insects off you, your bedding, and your clothes. A cold brew of Rooibos tea is very useful for easing the irritation of itches and insect bites. Aloe vera gel is great for sunburn and is also great for itches. Pyrethrum spray or cream is also a good way to keep biting insects away in countries where malaria and similar insect born diseases are present. Don’t forget a few basic safety matters like taking an hygienic container to keep your toothbrush in, and always check the Embassy of the country you are visiting to make sure any herbal or medicinal remedies you take with you are legal. If in doubt avoid that country. There are plenty of safe countries to travel to, don’t take any risks. Happy travelling, Patrick
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