Growing up in an Indian household, herbal remedies were abundant, and more often than not, the only medicine we used to heal ourselves of minor ailments. Whether it was an upset stomach, bloating, gas, cramps, or even a cold, my grandmother and mother had a remedy for everything. And the best part is, they actually work!
Here are 5 herbal remedies I always travel with, which I carry with me in small reusable pouches:
- Mint: Both of my moms grow a plethora of mint in their summer gardens, so at the end of the season they dry and crush them to store for the winter. Chewing on fresh or dried mint leaves helps to reduce nausea from long, bumpy flights or travel, and can cool our system on extra hot days. Simply chew on a couple teaspoons or steep in boiling water for a soothing tea.
- Ajwain (Carom Seeds): Super effective digestive aid that helps reduce upset stomach and diarrhea. Chew on 2 teaspoons of the seeds, or add 2-3 teaspoons to a cup of boiling water, strain, and drink. Tip: If chewing, add a pinch of salt to make it easier to take down. Also great for relieving joint pain. Simply add a handful of seeds to your bath water and soak.
- Soumf (Fennel Seeds): Reduces gas, bloating, and heartburn. Also the perfect post-meal mouth freshener ;) Chew on a couple teaspoons after a meal to aid digestion and freshen your breath.
- Turmeric: Seals cuts and wounds, helps stop bleeding, and a must have immunity boost. For cuts and wounds, rinse well with cold water and apply turmeric powder generously on top; this may sting a little but that's just its antibacterial properties getting to work! You'll be amazed how quickly your wound will seal and heal. And of course, for the perfect immunity boost, order a hot cup of milk/milk alternative, add 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder (plus a pinch of black pepper to increase absorption), and drink before heading to bed. You'll wake up feeling renewed.
- Chamomile Tea: Chamomile tea is naturally anti-inflammatory and calming, which makes it the perfect herbal remedy for reducing menstrual cramps, promoting relaxation and sleep, relieving stress and anxiety, and calming an upset stomach. It's also great for treating sunburn! Simply make a cup of tea, allow it to cool, soak a towel in it and apply to sunburned areas for 5-10 minutes. Tip: Inhaling the steam from a cup of chamomile tea can also sooth cold-related symptoms. I typically use loose, dried chamomile flowers when I'm at home, but here is my favorite travel-friendly chamomile tea. Enjoy!
Love + Light,
~Smita :)
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