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Traveling with a brain injury can present unique challenges, from managing symptoms to ensuring a comfortable journey. Essential oils can be valuable companions for those navigating this path, offering natural support for brain health and overall well-being. In this blog, we’ll explore five essential oils, including doTERRA DigestZen, Deep Blue Oil, Turmeric, and two others, each backed by scientific research, to help enhance your travel experience.
1. doTERRA DigestZen: Soothing Digestive Support
Travel often disrupts routines, which can lead to digestive discomfort. doTERRA’s DigestZen, a proprietary blend of essential oils, can help soothe stomach upset. The study conducted by Khodaie and Sadeghpoor, as published in the “Jundishapur Journal of Natural Pharmaceutical Products,” delves into the multifaceted history and applications of ginger. This research not only underscores the historical significance of ginger but also provides a contemporary perspective on its uses. Additionally, it reveals that certain essential oils in DigestZen, including ginger and peppermint, have the potential to effectively alleviate symptoms like nausea and bloating. Carry this blend for relief from travel-related digestive issues.
2. Deep Blue Oil: Comfort for Aches and Pains
Long journeys can be taxing on the body, and for those with a brain injury, this discomfort can be exacerbated. Deep Blue Oil, with its combination of wintergreen, camphor, and other natural analgesics, is known for its soothing properties. The study conducted by Hebert, P. R., Barice, E. J., and Hennekens, C. H., published in the “Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine,” underscores the remarkable pain-relieving benefits of wintergreen oil. This research provides valuable insights into the potential for wintergreen oil to alleviate pain, particularly in the context of low back pain treatment. Applying Deep Blue Oil to sore areas can provide much-needed comfort during your travels.
3. Turmeric: Anti-Inflammatory Support
Turmeric essential oil is derived from the turmeric root, a potent anti-inflammatory. In the book “Herbal Medicine: Biomolecular and Clinical Aspects,” the chapter titled “Turmeric, the Golden Spice: From Traditional Medicine to Modern Medicine” discusses turmeric’s ability to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress. For travelers with brain injuries, this can be especially significant, as brain health is closely linked to inflammation levels. Consider using turmeric oil or adding ground turmeric to your meals while on the road.
4. Lavender: Calming the Mind
Travel can be stressful, and for individuals with brain injuries, managing anxiety is crucial. Lavender essential oil is well-known for its calming and anxiolytic effects. Another notable research study, conducted by Hatami Bavarsad, N., Bagheri, S., Kourosh-Arami, M., and Komaki, A. in 2023 and published in the journal “Heliyon,” delves into the profound impact of lavender essential oil on various brain-related conditions, including epilepsy, depression, anxiety, migraine, and Alzheimer’s disease. The study found that inhaling lavender essential oil can reduce anxiety levels. Carry a bottle of lavender oil to inhale or diffuse in your accommodations to help calm your mind.
5.Peppermint: Mental Alertness and Headache Relief
Peppermint essential oil can promote mental clarity and ease headaches, which is vital for travelers with brain injuries. The study conducted by Göbel, H., Heinze, A., Heinze-Kuhn, K., Göbel, A., and Göbel, C., published in the journal “Schmerz,” offers compelling evidence that topical treatmnet of peppermint oil can notably boost alertness and enhance cognitive performance. This research contributes valuable insights into the cognitive-boosting properties of peppermint oil. Dab a drop of diluted peppermint oil on your temples or inhale its invigorating aroma when you need a mental boost during your journey.
Traveling with a brain injury can be challenging, but with the right support, it can also be a rewarding experience. These five essential oils, backed by scientific research, can be your allies on the road. From soothing digestive discomfort to promoting mental clarity and managing anxiety, these oils offer holistic assistance to enhance your travel wellness.
Before using any essential oil, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you have a preexisting medical condition or are taking medication. Additionally, perform a patch test to ensure you don’t have any adverse reactions to the oils. With proper care and preparation, essential oils can contribute to a more comfortable and enjoyable travel experience.
Sources:
Hebert, P. R., Barice, E. J., & Hennekens, C. H. (2014). Treatment of low back pain: the potential clinical and public health benefits of topical herbal remedies. Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 20(4), 219-220. [DOI: 10.1089/acm.2013.0313]. PMID: 24116881; PMCID: PMC3995208.
Prasad, S., & Aggarwal, B. B. (2011). Turmeric, the Golden Spice: From Traditional Medicine to Modern Medicine. In IFF Benzie & S. Wachtel-Galor (Eds.), Herbal Medicine: Biomolecular and Clinical Aspects (2nd edition) (Chapter 13). CRC Press/Taylor & Francis.
Hatami Bavarsad, N., Bagheri, S., Kourosh-Arami, M., Komaki, A. (2023). “Aromatherapy for the brain: Lavender’s healing effect on epilepsy, depression, anxiety, migraine, and Alzheimer’s disease: A review article.” Heliyon, 9(8), e18492. [URL: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e18492]
Göbel, H., Heinze, A., Heinze-Kuhn, K., Göbel, A., & Göbel, C. (2016). Oleum menthae piperitae (Pfefferminzöl) in der Akuttherapie des Kopfschmerzes vom Spannungstyp [Peppermint oil in the acute treatment of tension-type headache]. Schmerz, 30(3), 295-310. [DOI: 10.1007/s00482-016-0109-6]. PMID: 27106030.
Khodaie, L., & Sadeghpoor, O. (2015). Ginger from ancient times to the new outlook. Jundishapur Journal of Natural Pharmaceutical Products, 10(1), e18402. [DOI: 10.17795/jjnpp-18402]. PMID: 25866718; PMCID: PMC4377061.
