Packing herbal and homeopathic medicines is key to good health.
Colds: At the first sign of sniffles–or whenever your immune system feels challenged–take echinacea, olive leaf, Emergen-C (vitamin C/mineral mixture), zinc lozenges, or Cold Snap (blend of Chinese immunity herbs).
Insomnia: Take gentle sedative herbs such as valerian or passionflower. A few drops of lavender essential oil in a warm bath and dabbed on your pillow before bed is relaxing. Pack a sleep mask and earplugs.
Jet lag: Both melatonin (a supplement) and No Jet-Lag (a homeopathic formula) help your internal clock adjust to a new time zone.
Motion sickness: Take ginger or the homeopathic remedy Nux vomica to alleviate nausea. Acupressure wrist bands may also help.
Traveler’s diarrhea: Activated charcoal can alleviate intestinal gas and loose stools. Lactobacillus acidophilus can prevent or treat antibiotic-associated diarrhea.
Source: Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine, by Michael Murray and Joseph Pizzorno (Prima, 1998)
(Note: Severe or ongoing symptoms should be evaluated by a doctor.)
