10 Best Herbal Juices For Jet Lag

Herbal juices can be a natural and effective way to help manage the symptoms of jet lag by supporting the body's internal clock and reducing fatigue.

Ingredients like ginger, turmeric, and lemon are commonly included in herbal juices for their anti-inflammatory, digestive, and mood-enhancing properties. These juices can help improve digestion, boost energy levels, and promote relaxation, which are all beneficial during the recovery from jet lag. Drinking a glass of herbal juice in the morning or evening can help align your body's circadian rhythm with your new time zone.

While herbal juices are not a cure for jet lag, they can be a helpful complementary remedy when combined with other strategies like adjusting sleep schedules and staying hydrated.

1. Chaste tree (Vitex agnus-castus)

Vitex agnus-castus, commonly known as chasteberry, has been traditionally used to support hormonal balance and may help alleviate some symptoms associated with jet lag, such as fatigue and mood disturbances.

When consumed as a herbal juice, it is believed to regulate the body's internal clock by influencing melatonin production and circadian rhythms. While scientific evidence on its effectiveness for jet lag is limited, some users report improved sleep quality and reduced stress when using chasteberry juice during travel. It is typically recommended to consume the juice a few days before and after crossing time zones to support the body's adjustment.

As with any herbal remedy, it is important to consult a healthcare provider before use, especially for individuals with existing medical conditions or those taking other medications.

2. Valerian (Valeriana officinalis)

Valeriana officinalis, commonly known as valerian, is a traditional herbal remedy that has been used for centuries to promote relaxation and improve sleep quality.

When consumed as a herbal juice, valerian may help alleviate the symptoms of jet lag by supporting the body's natural circadian rhythms. Its calming properties can reduce anxiety and restlessness, which are often experienced during time zone changes. However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before using valerian, especially if you are taking other medications or have existing health conditions.

While some studies suggest valerian may aid in sleep regulation, more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness for jet lag specifically.

3. Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis)

Melissa officinalis, commonly known as lemon balm, is a mild herbal plant that has been traditionally used to support relaxation and reduce anxiety.

When consumed as a juice, it may help alleviate the symptoms of jet lag by promoting better sleep patterns and reducing stress. Its calming effects can aid in adjusting to new time zones more easily, making it a popular natural remedy for travelers. Lemon balm juice is typically made by blending fresh leaves with water or other juices, offering a refreshing and soothing drink.

While it is generally safe, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider before using it, especially for those with existing health conditions or taking medications.

4. Stinging nettle (Urtica dioica)

Urtica dioica, commonly known as stinging nettle, has been traditionally used for its potential health benefits, including its high concentration of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Some herbal practitioners suggest that stinging nettle juice may support the body's natural detoxification processes, which could potentially help alleviate the effects of jet lag by promoting overall wellness and energy balance. While there is limited scientific research specifically linking urtica dioica to jet lag relief, its anti-inflammatory and nutrient-rich properties may contribute to improved recovery and adaptation after long flights. When consumed as a juice, it is often recommended to be taken in moderation and combined with other adaptogenic herbs for enhanced results.

As with any herbal remedy, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating urtica dioica into your routine, especially if you have existing health conditions or are taking medications.

5. Ginger (Zingiber officinale)

Zingiber officinale, commonly known as ginger, has been traditionally used for its digestive and anti-inflammatory properties, and recent studies suggest it may also aid in combating jet lag.

Ginger contains compounds like gingerol and shogaol, which can help regulate the body's circadian rhythm by promoting the production of melatonin, a hormone essential for sleep. When consumed as a herbal juice, ginger can provide a natural and refreshing way to support the body's adjustment to new time zones. Its warming properties may also help alleviate the nausea and fatigue often associated with crossing time zones.

Incorporating zingiber officinale into a morning or evening routine can be a beneficial supplement to other strategies for managing jet lag.

6. Blessed thistle (Cnicus benedictus)

Cnicus benedictus, also known as St. John's Wort, is a herbal remedy that has been traditionally used to support mood and sleep, which can be beneficial for managing jet lag.

While it is not a direct cure for jet lag, its calming properties may help ease the symptoms of fatigue and irritability often associated with time zone changes. Some studies suggest that St. John's Wort may influence the body's circadian rhythm, potentially aiding in adjusting to new time zones more quickly. However, it is important to note that it can interact with certain medications and should be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

When combined with other strategies like gradual time zone adjustment and proper sleep hygiene, Cnicus benedictus herbal juices may offer additional support in combating the effects of jet lag.

7. Cumin (Cuminum cyminum)

Cuminum cyminum, commonly known as cumin, is a herb that has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for its digestive and anti-inflammatory properties.

While it is not a direct cure for jet lag, some studies suggest that cumin may help regulate digestion and support the body's natural rhythms, which can be beneficial during travel. Cumin herbal juice, made by extracting the essential oils and nutrients from the seeds, can be consumed in small amounts to aid in digestion and reduce fatigue. However, it is important to note that cumin alone is not a substitute for proper sleep schedules and time zone adjustments.

For best results, it should be used in conjunction with other natural remedies and lifestyle changes to combat jet lag effectively.

8. Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare)

Foeniculum vulgare, commonly known as fennel, has been traditionally used to support digestive health and ease symptoms of jet lag due to its mild stimulating properties.

The essential oil of fennel contains compounds like anethol, which may help regulate sleep patterns and reduce fatigue associated with time zone changes. Drinking fennel herbal juice, often made by juicing fresh fennel bulbs, can provide a natural way to support the body's adaptation to new time zones. Some studies suggest that fennel may help improve alertness and reduce nausea, common issues during travel.

While it is not a cure for jet lag, incorporating fennel juice into a routine may offer complementary relief and support overall well-being during travel.

9. Black pepper (Piper nigrum)

Piper nigrum, commonly known as black pepper, is not typically associated with herbal juices, but its essential oils and extracts can be used in certain formulations to support the body's natural rhythms.

While black pepper itself is not a primary remedy for jet lag, some herbal juices may include it alongside other adaptogenic herbs like ashwagandha or ginger to help alleviate travel-related fatigue and improve sleep patterns. These juices are often marketed as natural supplements that can help the body adjust to new time zones more smoothly. However, it's important to note that scientific evidence supporting the efficacy of piper nigrum in combating jet lag is limited, and results may vary among individuals.

For effective jet lag management, it's advisable to combine herbal remedies with proper sleep hygiene and time zone adjustment strategies.

10. Camellia (Camellia sinensis)

Camellia sinensis, the plant from which green tea and black tea are derived, is often used in herbal juices to help alleviate the symptoms of jet lag.

These juices typically contain antioxidants and bioactive compounds that support the body's natural rhythms and reduce fatigue. The caffeine in Camellia sinensis can help improve alertness and cognitive function, which is beneficial when adjusting to new time zones. However, it is important to consume these juices in moderation to avoid overstimulation or disrupted sleep patterns.

Incorporating Camellia sinensis herbal juices into a routine before and after travel may support a smoother transition across time zones.