Essential Oil Kit for a Winter Sun Getaway!
Winter is still here, and you’re already dreaming of escaping to the southern sun. Whether you're heading to Mexico, the Dominican Republic, or another tropical destination, packing wisely is essential to making the most of your vacation. But have you considered using essential oils to accompany your trip?
From relieving motion sickness to boosting immunity on the plane or preventing minor digestive issues, certain essential oils can be true natural allies. Easy to carry, versatile, and highly effective, they help you travel with peace of mind without overloading your toiletry bag.
In this article, I invite you to discover the must-have essential oils to pack in your carry-on to prevent and relieve common travel discomforts.
8 Essential Oils for Your Travel Kit
When going on vacation, having a natural care kit is essential for addressing minor travel discomforts. Instead of packing numerous products, opt for multi-purpose essential oils that will care for you effectively and naturally.
True Lavender: The Soothing and Relaxing Ally
True Lavender essential oil is a must-have for any traveller. Rich in linalyl acetate and linalool, it has soothing, healing, and regenerating properties for the skin. It’s perfect for relieving sunburns, and skin irritations, and promoting restful sleep after a long day.
- Practical Tips: For sunburn relief: Dilute 2 drops of True Lavender in a dab of aloe vera and apply to the affected area. To calm travel stress: Inhale the essential oil deeply on the tissue in case of anxiety or nervousness during the flight.
- Precautions: Not suitable for pregnant women under 3 months or infants under 3 months.
Tea Tree: The Natural Antiseptic
Tea Tree essential oil is a powerful anti-infective, perfect for disinfecting minor cuts, treating heat rashes, or boosting immunity. Thanks to its high concentration of terpinen-4-ol, it effectively fights infections and accelerates healing.
- Practical Tips: For disinfecting cuts or scrapes: Apply 1 pure drop on a cotton swab and dab the affected area. To boost immunity while travelling: Diffuse a few drops in your hotel room to purify the air and prevent respiratory infections.
- Precautions: Not suitable for pregnant women under 3 months or infants under 3 months. Dilute with a carrier oil to avoid irritation on damaged or sensitive skin.
Bitter Orange Petitgrain: The Anti-Stress Companion
Petitgrain essential oil is well-known in aromatherapy for calming stress and anxiety. Rich in linalyl acetate and linalool, it acts directly on the nervous system, promoting relaxation without causing drowsiness. It’s the ideal oil for anxious travellers or those prone to nervous tension before takeoff.
- Practical Tips: Before and during the flight: Place 2 drops on a tissue and inhale whenever you feel anxiety rising. For a relaxing massage: Dilute 2 drops in a dab of carrier oil and massage the neck to release tension.
- Precautions: Not suitable for pregnant women under 3 months or infants under 3 months.
Ravintsara: The Immune Shield
Ravintsara essential oil is one of the best natural antivirals due to its high 1,8-cineole content. It stimulates immunity and purifies the air, making it ideal for avoiding infections during flights, where the air is often confined and full of microbes. It’s beneficial both during and after your trip.
- Practical Tips: Before the flight: Apply 1 drop to each wrist and inhale deeply. During the flight: Massage your throat and chest with 1 drop diluted in carrier oil to strengthen immunity.
- Precautions: Not suitable for pregnant women under 3 months, breastfeeding women, or children under 3 years. Dilute with a carrier oil before applying it to sensitive skin. Not recommended for epileptics or asthma sufferers without medical advice.
Lemon: The Digestive Essential
Lemon essential oil is a precious ally for maintaining good digestion, especially after rich or spicy meals. With its high limonene content, it stimulates the liver, aids digestion, and purifies the digestive system.
- Practical Tips: After a heavy meal: Add 1 drop to a herbal tea to support digestion. To purify water: Pour 1 drop into 1 litre of water and mix well before drinking.
- Precautions: Not suitable for pregnant women under 3 months or children under 1 year. Dilute before applying to the skin. Do not apply to the skin before sun exposure, as lemon oil is photosensitizing.
Geranium Rosat: The Ally for Healthy Skin
Geranium Rosat essential oil is renowned for its anti-inflammatory, healing, and insect-repelling properties. Rich in citronellol and geraniol, it helps soothe insect bites and balance the skin after prolonged sun exposure.
- Practical Tips: For insect bites: Apply 1 pure drop directly to the bite, up to 3 times a day if needed. To soothe irritated skin: Mix 3 drops with a dab of aloe vera gel and gently massage.
- Precautions: Not suitable for pregnant women under 3 months or children under 3 years. Dilute before applying to the skin.
Mandarin: The Comforting Companion
Mandarin essential oil is a must-have for promoting restful sleep. With its limonene and ester content, it relaxes the nervous system, calms mental agitation, and helps with falling asleep. Its sweet, fruity scent provides a comforting sensation, perfect for unfamiliar sleeping environments.
- Practical Tips: For a good night’s sleep: Place 1 drop on a tissue near your pillow to encourage quick sleep onset. For a relaxing massage: Mix 3 drops with a teaspoon of carrier oil and apply to the neck and solar plexus before bedtime.
- Precautions: Not suitable for pregnant women under 3 months or infants under 3 months. Dilute before applying to the skin. Do not apply before sun exposure due to its photosensitizing properties.
Roman Chamomile: For Maximum Relaxation
Roman Chamomile essential oil is perfect for calming stress, reducing anxiety, and relieving nervous tension. Rich in isobutyl and isoamyl angelates, it promotes deep and restorative sleep by acting directly on the nervous system.
- Practical Tips: For a soothing inhalation: Place 1 drop on a tissue and breathe deeply before sleeping. For a restful sleep: Mix 2 drops in carrier oil and apply to the soles of the feet and wrists.
- Precautions: Not suitable for pregnant women under 3 months or infants under 3 months.
Recipes for a Peaceful Journey
Here are simple, effective, and fun recipes to prepare before your departure. These synergies will help you manage minor travel ailments while ensuring a more comfortable stay.
Roll-on "Tropical Zen"
The stress of travel, fear of flying, or fatigue from long journeys can be overwhelming. This roll-on with calming essential oils helps to relax the mind, relieve tension, and promote a general sense of well-being.
Ingredients
- 4 drops of Petitgrain Bigarade essential oil
- 3 drops of True Lavender essential oil
- 10 ml of Jojoba vegetable oil
Preparation:
- Mix the essential oils with the vegetable oil in a 10 ml roll-on bottle.
Usage:
- Apply to the wrists and solar plexus before and during the flight. Breathe deeply for an immediate relaxing effect.
Precautions:
- Not suitable for children under 6 years old or pregnant women under 3 months.
Synergy "Bye Bye Digestive Trouble"
When traveling to hot countries, the digestive system can be put to the test by spicy dishes, non-potable water, or local bacteria. This digestive essential oil synergy helps prevent intestinal issues and ease bloating.
Ingredients
- 4 drops of Lemon essential oil
- 2 drops of Mandarin essential oil
- 10 ml of Olive vegetable oil
Preparation:
- Mix the essential oils with the vegetable oil in a 10 ml dropper bottle.
Usage:
- Take 1 drop of this mixture on a neutral tablet or in a spoonful of honey after a heavy meal. Use up to 3 times a day if needed.
Precautions:
- Not recommended for pregnant women and children under 6 years old. Do not use for prolonged periods.
Roll-on "Cicat’Express"
Minor cuts and scrapes are common travel mishaps. This roll-on helps disinfect and promote quick healing thanks to the antiseptic and regenerative properties of essential oils.
Ingredients
- 3 drops of Tea Tree essential oil
- 3 drops of True Lavender essential oil
- 10 ml of Baby MJ oil
Preparation:
- Mix all essential oils with the Baby MJ oil in a 10 ml roll-on bottle.
Usage:
- Apply to small cuts or scrapes to speed up healing.
Precautions:
- Do not use on deep open wounds.
Synergy "Immunity Boost"
Traveling by plane or public transport can weaken our immune system. This synergy is designed to strengthen your natural defenses.
Ingredients
- 3 drops of Ravintsara essential oil
- 2 drops of Tea Tree essential oil
- 10 ml of Jojoba vegetable oil
Preparation:
- Mix the essential oils with the vegetable oil in a 10 ml roll-on bottle.
Usage:
- Apply to the soles of the feet and along the spine morning and evening.
Precautions:
- Not suitable for pregnant women and children under 6 years old.
Roll-on "Bye Bye Bites"
Insect bites can quickly become uncomfortable. This roll-on immediately soothes itching and prevents inflammation thanks to the calming and anti-inflammatory properties of essential oils.
Ingredients
- 3 drops of Rose Geranium essential oil
- 3 drops of True Lavender essential oil
- 10 ml of Jojoba vegetable oil
Preparation:
- Mix the essential oils with the vegetable oil in a 10 ml roll-on bottle.
Usage:
- Apply directly to the bite to relieve itching and prevent inflammation.
Precautions:
- Do not apply to broken skin.
Mist "Dodo Express"
Sleep can be disrupted during travel due to ambient noise, a new bed, or jet lag. This pillow mist helps calm the mind and promote deep, restorative sleep.
Ingredients
- 5 drops of Mandarin essential oil
- 3 drops of Roman Chamomile essential oil
- 25 ml of Neroli hydrosol
- 5 ml of d’alcool at 70°
Preparation:
- Mix all ingredients in a 30 ml spray bottle.
Usage:
- Spray around the bed 10 minutes before sleeping. Enjoy a peaceful and relaxing sleep.
Precautions:
- Avoid spraying directly on the pillow and face. Not suitable for children under 3 years old.
General Precautions for Essential Oil Use
To fully enjoy these synergies, follow these guidelines:
- Specific diffusion precautions: Do not diffuse for more than 30 minutes per session to avoid saturating the air. Use a diffuser appropriate for your room size.
- Dilution: Always dilute essential oils before skin application to avoid irritation.
- Tolerance test: Before use, perform a tolerance test by applying a small amount of the diluted synergy on the inner elbow. Wait 24 hours to check for any allergic reactions.
- Not for use by children, pregnant, or breastfeeding women without medical advice: Always consult essential oil safety information and seek professional advice before use in these cases.
- Precautions for certain conditions: People with chronic illnesses (asthma, epilepsy, hypertension, etc.) should consult their doctor before using essential oils, as some may have contraindications or adverse effects with treatments. Your doctor is the primary actor for your health.
- Beware of photosensitizing oils: Some essential oils, like citrus oils (lemon, bergamot, grapefruit), can cause burns or skin stains if exposed to sunlight after application. Do not use them before direct sun exposure.
- Avoid contact with mucous membranes and eyes: Essential oils can cause severe irritation. In case of accidental contact, rinse thoroughly with vegetable oil, not water. Seek medical attention if necessary.
Preparing for a sunny getaway isn’t just about choosing the right swimsuit and sunglasses. Unforeseen events like flight stress, sunburns, or insect bites can quickly dampen your vacation joy.
Luckily, with a well-thought-out essential oil kit, you’ll have natural and effective solutions to fully enjoy your trip.
Wishing you a wonderful aromatic journey!
Aude
References
Sources of information (bibliography)
Pierre Franchomme, Roger Jolois, Daniel Pénoël. L’aromathérapie exactement : encyclopédie de l’utilisation thérapeutique des extraits aromatiques. Édition Roger Jollois, 30 août 2001, 512 p., ISBN : 2-87819-001-7
Françoise Couic-Marinier, Dr Anthony Toubol, Le Guide Terre vivante des huiles essentielles, Édition Terre vivante, 17 novembre 2017, 477 p. ISBN : 9782360982752
Françoise Couic Marinier, Les huiles essentielles pour adultes, Édition Solar 9 septembre 2021, 298 p., ISBN : 2263174524
Maison Jacynthe disclaims all liability. All the information contained on this page is not intended to substitute for justified allopathic treatment, nor to disregard the expertise of the medical profession. It is up to each individual to take charge of his or her own health, to inform him or herself and to make the necessary changes to improve his or her condition. Therapeutic supervision by a qualified health professional is obviously suggested.
