What is Jet Lag?
Jet Lag is a physical condition which is brought about by sudden changes in one’s biological clock. When we travel across different time zones, our body’s natural circadian rhythms become disrupted, resulting in fatigue, insomnia, headaches, and irritability. Thankfully, jet lag is only temporary until your body is able to fully adjust to the new time zone.
Essential Oils for Jet Lag
If you are flying across continents, here are some of the recommended essential oils you may wish to bring along with you during your trip.
Essential Oil for Insomnia:
A good oil for relaxation and serenity, Lavender, Jasmine and Rose essential oil helps to reduce anxiety as well as promote a sense of peace and calm. Chamomile is also another calming oil that can also work as a relaxant for an upset stomach. Add a few drops of essential oil on your pillow and inhale deeply to encourage sleep, especially if you have just checked into your hotel after a long flight.
Essential Oil for Regulating Sleep:
Both Geranium and Lemongrass are said to be able to maintain hormonal balance, working to fine-tune sleep patterns and natural bodily functions, thus helping tremendously with jet lag. As a natural energizer, Lemongrass also eliminates the fatigue that comes from jet lag with its crisp, summery aroma.
Essential Oil for Keeping Alert:
These essential oils have a fresh, minty scent that is an instant perk-me-up in any occasion. Whether is feeling groggy, or trouble staying focused in the day, these oils are useful for beating sluggishness, increasing alertness and giving the body a burst of energy.
Aromatherapy applications for Jet Lag
- Mini Massage Oil
HYSSES’ Mini Massage Oils ($25.90) are compact and convenient to accompany you during your flight. These pocket-sized roll-ons can be used as a spot massage treatment onto your temples, third eye, and neck.
- Potpourri
Add a few drops of your favourite essential oil onto a potpourri sachet to inhale as and when needed. Make your own potpourri sachet by sealing dried flowers, wood shavings or herbs into a cloth bag. Keeping one inside your carry on also ensures that your bag stays fresh.
- Massage Oil
Blending your own massage oil before boarding the plane is a good idea to ease the discomfort that comes with jet lag. Sore muscles and fluid retention are some of the physical discomforts that can be eased with a simple massage. One popular essential oil to add into your massage oil blend is Ginger, which has detoxifying properties to get rid of fluid retention and also soothe muscular aches.