10 Best Herbal Essential Oils For Jet Lag
Herbal essential oils can be a natural and effective aid in managing jet lag by helping to regulate the body's circadian rhythm.
Oils such as lavender, peppermint, and lemon are commonly used for their calming, invigorating, and mood-enhancing properties. When applied topically or inhaled, these oils can help reduce fatigue, improve alertness, and promote relaxation, making them useful before and after long flights. A diffuser or a few drops on a handkerchief can provide continuous relief during travel.
However, it's important to use these oils safely, diluting them with a carrier oil and consulting with a healthcare professional if you have any allergies or medical conditions.
Table of Contents
1. Valeriana officinalis
Valeriana officinalis, commonly known as valerian, is a herb traditionally used for its calming and sedative properties.
Its essential oil, derived from the roots of the plant, contains compounds such as valerenic acid and sesquiterpenes that may help in reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation. When used aromatically, valerian essential oil can support better sleep quality, which is crucial for managing the effects of jet lag. Some studies suggest that valerian may help regulate the body's circadian rhythm, making it a potential natural remedy for sleep disruption caused by time zone changes.
However, it is important to use valerian essential oil in moderation and consult with a healthcare provider before incorporating it into a jet lag management routine.
2. Melissa officinalis
Melissa officinalis, commonly known as lemon balm, is a versatile herb that has been traditionally used for its calming and soothing properties.
Its essential oil, derived through steam distillation of the fresh leaves, contains compounds like linalool and camphor, which are known for their ability to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. When used aromatically or topically, Melissa officinalis essential oil may help alleviate the stress and fatigue associated with jet lag by supporting nervous system balance. Some studies suggest that essential oils can influence circadian rhythms, making them a natural complement to conventional jet lag remedies.
However, it is important to use the oil in moderation and consult with a healthcare professional, especially for those with sensitivities or existing medical conditions.
3. Piper nigrum
Piper nigrum, commonly known as black pepper, contains essential oils that may help alleviate symptoms of jet lag due to their stimulating and circadian rhythm-regulating properties.
The essential oil of black pepper contains compounds like piperine, which can enhance mental alertness and improve mood, potentially helping individuals adjust to new time zones more quickly. When used aromatically or topically, these essential oils may support the body's natural sleep-wake cycle by influencing neurotransmitter activity. However, it is important to use these oils in moderation and consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating them into a jet lag management routine.
While not a substitute for proper rest and time adjustment strategies, Piper nigrum essential oils may offer complementary support for those experiencing jet lag.
4. Rosmarinus officinalis
Rosmarinus officinalis, commonly known as rosemary, produces a distinctive essential oil that has been explored for its potential to alleviate symptoms of jet lag.
This oil contains compounds such as 1,8-cineole and camphor, which are known for their stimulating and mood-enhancing properties. When used aromatically, rosemary essential oil may help improve alertness and mental clarity, which are often impaired during jet lag. Some studies suggest that inhaling rosemary oil can support the body's circadian rhythm by influencing neurotransmitter activity.
However, while it may offer complementary support, it should not replace proper sleep hygiene and time zone adjustment strategies for managing jet lag effectively.
5. Mentha piperita
Mentha piperita, commonly known as peppermint, is a versatile herbal plant whose essential oil is widely used for its invigorating and calming properties.
The essential oil of peppermint contains high concentrations of menthol, which can help alleviate symptoms of jet lag by improving mental clarity and reducing fatigue. When used aromatically through diffusion or inhalation, peppermint essential oil may help regulate the body's circadian rhythm, supporting the body's adjustment to new time zones. Its refreshing scent can also promote relaxation and ease the stress associated with travel and time zone changes.
However, it is important to use peppermint essential oil in moderation and consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating it into a jet lag remedy regimen.
6. Lavandula angustifolia
Lavandula angustifolia, commonly known as English lavender, produces a calming essential oil that has been traditionally used to promote relaxation and improve sleep quality.
This essential oil is particularly beneficial for individuals suffering from jet lag, as it can help regulate the body's circadian rhythm by reducing stress and inducing a sense of calm. The soothing properties of lavender essential oil may also aid in alleviating the symptoms of fatigue and irritability often associated with crossing time zones. When used aromatically through diffusion or topical application, it can create a restorative environment conducive to better sleep.
However, it is important to use lavender essential oil in moderation and consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating it into a jet lag management routine.
7. Cinnamomum verum
Cinnamomum verum, commonly known as true cinnamon, produces an essential oil that is often used in aromatherapy for its calming and grounding properties.
While not a direct cure for jet lag, the oil's ability to promote relaxation and improve sleep quality may help alleviate some of the symptoms associated with time zone changes. When used in a diffuser or applied topically (diluted with a carrier oil), cinnamon essential oil can support the body's natural circadian rhythms by reducing stress and enhancing mood. Its warm, spicy aroma is believed to stimulate the central nervous system, which may aid in adjusting to new time zones more quickly.
However, it is important to note that essential oils should be used as a complementary therapy rather than a standalone solution for jet lag.
8. Citrus sinensis
Citrus sinensis, commonly known as sweet orange, produces a vibrant essential oil that is often used in aromatherapy to help alleviate the symptoms of jet lag.
The oil is rich in limonene, a compound known for its calming and uplifting properties, which can help regulate mood and reduce the stress associated with travel across time zones. When used in diffusers or applied topically, the essential oil can support the body's natural circadian rhythms, promoting better sleep patterns and alertness at the right times. Its fresh, citrusy aroma is particularly effective in boosting mental clarity and reducing feelings of fatigue during long flights.
Incorporating citrus sinensis essential oil into a post-flight routine can be a natural and effective way to help the body adjust to new time zones more smoothly.
9. Cuminum cyminum
Cuminum cyminum, commonly known as cumin, is a herb whose essential oil has been explored for its potential to alleviate symptoms of jet lag.
The oil contains compounds like limonene and cineole, which may help regulate the body's circadian rhythm by influencing melatonin production. Some studies suggest that aromatherapy with cumin essential oil could promote relaxation and improve sleep quality, both of which are crucial for recovery from jet lag. However, more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness and safety for regular use.
Despite its traditional use in herbal medicine, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before using cumin essential oil for jet lag or any other health condition.
10. Cinnamomum zeylanicum
Cinnamomum zeylanicum, commonly known as cinnamon, produces a warm and spicy essential oil that has been explored for its potential to help alleviate symptoms of jet lag.
The oil contains compounds like cinnamaldehyde, which may have mild stimulating properties that could help regulate the body's circadian rhythm. Some studies suggest that aromatic inhalation of cinnamon essential oil might support mental alertness and reduce fatigue, which are common issues during jet lag. While not a cure for jet lag, it can be used as a complementary therapy to enhance overall well-being during travel.
It is important to use the oil safely, often diluted with a carrier oil, and consult with a healthcare professional before use, especially for those with sensitive skin or medical conditions.