10 Best Herbal Creams For Jet Lag

Herbal creams for jet lag are topical applications containing natural herbs and essential oils designed to alleviate jet lag symptoms such as fatigue, insomnia, and travel-related stress.

These creams often feature ingredients like lavender, valerian root, and ginseng, which promote relaxation and improve sleep quality.

Examples include creams with ashwagandha and passionflower, which can help regulate the body's internal clock and reduce jet lag's negative impacts, leading to improved sleep, increased energy, and a smoother travel experience.

The following article describes in detail the most important creams for jet lag, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.

1. Valeriana officinalis

Valeriana officinalis, also known as valerian, creams helps with jet lag because it promotes relaxation and improves sleep quality.

The active compounds in valerian root, such as isovaleric acid and valerenic acid, interact with the brain's GABA receptors to reduce stress and anxiety. By calming the nervous system, valerian creams can help regulate the body's internal clock and alleviate symptoms of jet lag, including fatigue, insomnia, and disorientation.

This makes it easier to adjust to new time zones and get back on a normal sleep schedule.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Valeriana officinalis creams that help with jet lag.

• Valerenic acid: Valerenic acid is a sesquiterpene that acts as a GABA receptor agonist, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety, which can be beneficial in alleviating symptoms of jet lag.
• Valeranone: Valeranone is a valerenic acid derivative that has sedative and anxiolytic properties, helping to regulate the body's internal clock and reduce the effects of jet lag.
• Isovaleric acid: Isovaleric acid is a short-chain fatty acid that has been shown to have sedative and anti-anxiety effects, which can help mitigate the sleep disturbances and fatigue associated with jet lag.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of valerian used to make creams for jet lag.

• Roots: The roots of Valeriana officinalis are the most commonly used part for making creams to alleviate jet lag due to their high concentration of valerenic acids, which promote relaxation and reduce stress.
• Flowers: The flowers of Valeriana officinalis are used in creams for jet lag as they contain valeranone, a compound that helps to regulate sleep patterns and improve the quality of sleep.
• Seeds: The seeds of Valeriana officinalis are used in creams for jet lag as they contain valerenic acids and other compounds that help to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic valerian for jet lag.

1. Extract the dried roots of valeriana officinalis using a solvent like ethanol or glycerin in a 1:2 ratio.
2. Steep the extracted mixture in a double boiler at 60-70 degrees celsius for 2 hours.
3. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth and discard the solids to obtain a clear extract.
4. Mix the extract with a carrier oil like coconut oil in a 20% concentration for a smooth consistency.
5. Whip the mixture into a creamy texture using a hand mixer or blender for 5 minutes.

2. Melissa officinalis

Melissa officinalis, also known as lemon balm, creams helps with jet lag because they contain natural compounds that promote relaxation and reduce stress.

The herb's calming effects can help regulate the body's internal clock, making it easier to adjust to new time zones. Additionally, the creams may also help alleviate symptoms of fatigue and insomnia associated with jet lag, promoting a restful night's sleep and a smoother transition to a new time zone.

This can lead to improved mood and reduced travel fatigue.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melissa officinalis creams that help with jet lag.

• Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound has antioxidant properties, which can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation caused by jet lag, promoting a smoother transition to a new time zone.
• Luteolin: A flavonoid that has been shown to regulate the body's circadian rhythms, luteolin can help adjust the body's internal clock to the new time zone, reducing symptoms of jet lag such as fatigue and insomnia.
• Geraniol: A terpene with a calming effect, geraniol can help reduce stress and anxiety associated with travel and time zone changes, promoting a more restful sleep and faster adaptation to the new time zone.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of lemon balm used to make creams for jet lag.

• Leaves: The leaves of Melissa officinalis are used to make creams for jet lag due to their calming and sedative properties, which help regulate sleep patterns.
• Flowers: The flowers of Melissa officinalis are used in creams for jet lag due to their adaptogenic properties, which help the body adapt to time zone changes and reduce stress.
• Roots: The roots of Melissa officinalis are used in creams for jet lag due to their ability to promote relaxation and improve sleep quality, helping to alleviate symptoms of jet lag.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemon balm for jet lag.

1. Harvest 1 cup of melissa officinalis flowers and leaves from a clean and dry area at dawn.
2. Combine the harvested melissa officinalis with 2 cups of distilled water in a stainless steel pot.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil then reduce heat to a simmer for 20 minutes to release the essential oils.
4. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into a clean glass container and discard the solids.
5. Mix 1/2 cup of beeswax and 1/4 cup of shea butter with the melissa officinalis infusion to create a smooth cream.

3. Passiflora incarnata

Passiflora incarnata, also known as maypop, creams helps with jet lag because it contains a unique combination of natural ingredients that promote relaxation and regulate the body's internal clock.

The calming properties of Passiflora incarnata help to reduce anxiety and stress associated with travel, while its adaptogenic properties assist in adjusting to new time zones.

By promoting a restful sleep and reducing fatigue, these creams enable travelers to recover faster from the effects of jet lag, making them a popular choice for those who frequently cross time zones.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Passiflora incarnata creams that help with jet lag.

• Harmane: Harmane is a beta-carboline alkaloid found in Passiflora incarnata. It has been shown to have sedative and anxiolytic properties, which can help alleviate the stress and anxiety associated with jet lag.
• Methyl 6-methylsalicylate: This phenolic compound has been found in Passiflora incarnata and has been reported to have sedative and relaxing properties. It can help regulate the body's internal clock and promote better sleep, which is essential for recovering from jet lag.
• Isovitexin: Isovitexin is a flavonoid glycoside found in Passiflora incarnata. It has been reported to have sedative and anxiolytic properties, as well as antioxidant activity, which can help mitigate the oxidative stress associated with jet lag.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of maypop used to make creams for jet lag.

• Leaves: The leaves are rich in flavonoids, which have been found to have sedative and sleep-promoting effects, making them a common ingredient in jet lag creams.
• Roots: The roots of Passiflora incarnata are known to contain a high concentration of passifloric acid, which has been shown to have a sedative effect and help regulate sleep patterns.
• Seeds: The seeds of Passiflora incarnata are rich in flavonoids and alkaloids, which can help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation, making them a popular ingredient in jet lag creams.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maypop for jet lag.

1. Harvest 1 pound of fresh or dried passiflora incarnata flowers at dawn when dew is still present.
2. Dry the flowers in a single layer on paper bags at room temperature for 7 to 10 days.
3. Combine 1 cup of dried flowers with 2 cups of carrier oil such as jojoba or sweet almond oil in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 3 weeks shaking the jar every day.
5. Strain the liquid through cheesecloth and mix it with beeswax and a preservative to create a smooth cream.

4. Scrophularia nodosa

Scrophularia nodosa, also known as figwort, creams helps with jet lag because they promote relaxation and reduce inflammation caused by disrupted sleep patterns.

The cream's active compounds, such as flavonoids and phenolic acids, have been shown to regulate the body's circadian rhythms and improve sleep quality. Additionally, figwort creams may help alleviate symptoms associated with jet lag, including fatigue, headaches, and digestive issues.

By using these creams, individuals can help their bodies adapt to new time zones and feel more rested and refreshed.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Scrophularia nodosa creams that help with jet lag.

• Iridoid glycosides: These compounds may help regulate the body's circadian rhythms by influencing the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN), which is responsible for synchronizing the body's internal clock with the external environment.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids like rutin may help mitigate the negative effects of jet lag by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation caused by disrupted circadian rhythms.
• Triterpenes: Triterpenes like ursolic acid may help regulate the body's internal clock by influencing the expression of genes involved in circadian rhythm regulation, thus potentially aiding in the recovery from jet lag.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of figwort used to make creams for jet lag.

• Roots: Used due to their reported anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
• Leaves: Used because they are believed to have antiviral and antimicrobial properties.
• Flowers: Used for their potential anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antioxidant effects.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic figwort for jet lag.

1. Harvest 30g of dried scrophularia nodosa roots from the plant in late summer or early autumn.
2. Infuse the dried roots in 100ml of carrier oil such as sweet almond oil at 45c for 4 hours.
3. Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth and discard the solids after 2 hours.
4. Mix 30g of beeswax with 30ml of the infused oil and heat the mixture in a double boiler at 60c for 10 minutes.
5. Pour the cooled mixture into a container and store it in the refrigerator for 2 hours before use.

5. Matricaria chamomilla

Matricaria chamomilla, also known as chamomile, creams helps with jet lag because of its calming and soothing properties.

The active ingredients in chamomile, such as apigenin and luteolin, have been shown to regulate the body's circadian rhythms and promote relaxation. By using chamomile cream, individuals can reduce stress and anxiety associated with jet lag, making it easier to adjust to a new time zone.

This can lead to improved sleep quality, reduced fatigue, and a faster recovery from travel-related fatigue.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla creams that help with jet lag.

• Apigenin: Apigenin, a flavonoid phenolic compound, helps with jet lag by promoting relaxation, reducing anxiety, and regulating sleep patterns due to its sedative and anxiolytic properties.
• Alpha-bisabolol: Alpha-bisabolol, a sesquiterpene alcohol, helps with jet lag by soothing the skin, reducing inflammation, and promoting relaxation, which may aid in readjusting the body's circadian rhythms.
• Luteolin: Luteolin, a flavonoid phenolic compound, helps with jet lag by reducing oxidative stress, promoting the production of melatonin (the sleep hormone), and regulating the body's circadian rhythms to help adjust to new time zones.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make creams for jet lag.

• Flowers: Their calming and soothing properties help reduce stress and promote relaxation.
• Leaves: Rich in antioxidants, they contribute to the anti-inflammatory and soothing effects in jet lag creams.
• Seeds: Containing apigenin, a flavonoid with sleep-promoting properties, they help regulate sleep patterns.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for jet lag.

1. Infuse 2 tablespoons of dried matricaria chamomilla flowers in 1 cup of boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes.
2. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl to discard the solids.
3. Combine 1/2 cup of coconut oil and 1/4 cup of beeswax in a double boiler over low heat.
4. Add 2 tablespoons of the infused matricaria chamomilla liquid to the melted coconut oil and beeswax mixture.
5. Pour the mixture into small containers and let it cool and solidify at room temperature for 30 minutes.

6. Hypericum perforatum

Hypericum perforatum, also known as St John's Wort, creams helps with jet lag because of its adaptogenic properties.

It aids in regulating the body's internal clock and promoting a balance between melatonin production, which is crucial for managing sleep patterns. By reducing stress and promoting relaxation, St John's Wort creams can help alleviate the fatigue associated with jet lag.

Additionally, its antioxidant properties help to counteract the oxidative stress caused by long-distance travel, allowing the body to recover faster.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hypericum perforatum creams that help with jet lag.

• Hyperforin: This lipophilic constituent may help with jet lag by improving sleep quality due to its ability to modulate the body's circadian rhythms and reduce stress levels.
• Quercetin: A flavonoid with antioxidant properties, quercetin may help mitigate the effects of jet lag by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress associated with long-distance travel and time zone changes.
• Naringenin: A flavanone with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, naringenin may aid in reducing the severity of jet lag symptoms by protecting against the negative impacts of travel on the body's natural sleep-wake cycle.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of st john's wort used to make creams for jet lag.

• Leaves: They are used due to their bioflavonoid and flavonoid content, which helps to reduce inflammation and improve sleep quality.
• Flowers: They are used for their adaptogenic properties, which help the body to adapt to time zone changes and reduce stress.
• Seeds: They are used due to their high concentration of hyperforin, a compound that helps to regulate the body's internal clock and improve sleep patterns.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic st john's wort for jet lag.

1. Harvest 30 grams of dried hypericum perforatum flowers at full bloom and store them in a cool dark place.
2. Grind 20 grams of the dried flowers into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle for 5 minutes.
3. Mix 10 grams of beeswax with 10 grams of coconut oil in a double boiler over low heat for 10 minutes.
4. Combine 2 grams of the ground flowers with 5 grams of the beeswax mixture and stir until well combined for 2 minutes.
5. Pour the mixture into a container and allow it to cool and solidify at room temperature for 30 minutes.

7. Lavandula angustifolia

Lavandula angustifolia, also known as English lavender, creams helps with jet lag because of its calming and relaxing properties.

The fragrance and active compounds in these creams can help regulate the body's internal clock, promoting a peaceful sleep environment. This, in turn, can aid in readjusting the body's natural rhythms after travel across time zones.

Additionally, lavender's soothing effects can also help alleviate stress and anxiety associated with jet lag, making it easier to adapt to new schedules and environments.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia creams that help with jet lag.

• Linalool: This terpene helps to regulate sleep patterns and reduce stress levels, which can be disrupted by jet lag. Its sedative properties promote relaxation and improve sleep quality, making it easier to adjust to a new time zone.
• Linalyl acetate: This terpene also has sedative and calming effects, which can help alleviate symptoms of jet lag such as insomnia and restlessness. Its ability to regulate sleep patterns and reduce anxiety makes it an effective ingredient in Lavandula angustifolia creams.
• Luteolin: This flavonoid has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help mitigate the negative effects of jet lag on the body. Its ability to regulate the body's circadian rhythms and reduce oxidative stress can aid in the recovery from jet lag.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make creams for jet lag.

• Flowers: They are used due to their calming properties, which help alleviate stress and anxiety associated with jet lag.
• Leaves: They are used for their sedative effects, which can aid in improving sleep quality and reducing fatigue caused by jet lag.
• Seeds: They are used due to their potential to promote relaxation and reduce inflammation, helping to alleviate jet lag symptoms.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for jet lag.

1. Infuse 1 cup of dried lavandula flowers in 4 cups of boiling water for 10 minutes.
2. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean bowl.
3. Mix 1/4 cup of beeswax and 1/4 cup of coconut oil in a double boiler at 180 degrees fahrenheit.
4. Combine 1/2 cup of the infused liquid with 1/4 cup of distilled water and 2 tablespoons of glycerin.
5. Blend the infused liquid mixture with the melted beeswax and oil mixture until smooth and creamy.

8. Avena sativa

Avena sativa, also known as oats, creams helps with jet lag because of its unique properties that promote relaxation and reduce stress.

The cream's active compounds, including avenanthramides, have been shown to have a calming effect on the body, helping to regulate the body's internal clock. By reducing stress and promoting relaxation, Avena sativa creams can help alleviate the symptoms of jet lag, such as fatigue, insomnia, and disorientation.

This makes it an effective natural remedy for travelers.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Avena sativa creams that help with jet lag.

• Avenacosides: Avenacosides, a type of saponin, may help with jet lag by reducing inflammation and promoting relaxation, which can help alleviate symptoms associated with jet lag, such as fatigue and stress.
• Avenanthramides: Avenanthramides, a unique type of phenolic compound found in oats, may help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, which can contribute to jet lag symptoms such as fatigue and circadian rhythm disruption.
• Avenantharidin: Avenantharidin, a compound found in Avena sativa, may have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that could help mitigate the negative effects of jet lag on the body, such as fatigue, sleep disturbances, and digestive issues.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of oats used to make creams for jet lag.

• Seeds: The seeds are rich in saponins, which have a sedative effect on the body and help alleviate symptoms associated with jet lag.
• Roots: The roots contain a wealth of nutrients and antioxidants that promote relaxation and help regulate the body's internal clock.
• Leaves: The leaves of Avena sativa are high in antioxidants and flavonoids, which can help reduce stress and promote a restful sleep, essential for recovering from jet lag.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic oats for jet lag.

1. Harvest avena sativa root and leaves in large quantities preferably in the morning when they are at their highest potency.
2. Dry the harvested avena sativa root and leaves in a warm environment at 40 degrees celsius for two weeks.
3. Grind the dried avena sativa root and leaves into a fine powder using a coffee grinder at 3000 rpm for five minutes.
4. Mix the ground avena sativa powder with 20 grams of beeswax and 30 grams of coconut oil in a double boiler at 70 degrees celsius for 30 minutes.
5. Add 10 milliliters of distilled water and 5 milliliters of vitamin e oil to the cooled mixture and stir well.

9. Ginkgo biloba

Ginkgo biloba, also known as maidenhair tree, creams helps with jet lag because they contain flavonoids and terpenoids that improve blood flow to the brain, enhancing cognitive function and memory.

The antioxidant properties of Ginkgo biloba cream also help to reduce oxidative stress caused by travel fatigue. Additionally, the cream's anti-inflammatory properties can alleviate symptoms of jet lag, such as headaches and fatigue, allowing the body to recover faster and adjust to the new time zone.

This results in a smoother transition and reduced jet lag symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba creams that help with jet lag.

• Flavonoids: These plant compounds help protect the body from oxidative stress caused by travel-related fatigue and disrupted sleep patterns. By reducing inflammation and promoting antioxidant defenses, flavonoids may help alleviate jet lag symptoms.
• Bilobalide: This sesquiterpene lactone may help regulate the body's internal clock by influencing the expression of genes involved in circadian rhythm regulation, which can be disrupted by travel across time zones.
• Quercetin: As a flavonoid and potent antioxidant, quercetin may help mitigate the negative effects of travel stress, such as fatigue, headaches, and decreased cognitive function, by reducing inflammation and promoting overall well-being.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make creams for jet lag.

• Leaves: They are rich in flavonoids and terpenoids, which are believed to help alleviate jet lag symptoms.
• Barks: They contain ginkgolides, which are thought to improve circulation and help the body adjust to new time zones.
• Seeds: They contain bilobalide, a compound believed to aid in the reduction of jet lag symptoms and promote a sense of well-being.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for jet lag.

1. Harvest 15-20 ginkgo biloba leaves from mature trees at dawn to capture optimal oil content and store them in a cool place.
2. Extract the oil from the leaves using a cold press method or solvent extraction with a 1:5 ratio for 8 hours.
3. Mix the extracted oil with 5 grams of beeswax and 2 grams of lanolin in a double boiler at 160-180 degrees fahrenheit for 10 minutes.
4. Add 5 milliliters of vitamin e oil and 5 milliliters of distilled water to the mixture and blend for 5 minutes.
5. Pour the mixture into glass jars and allow the herbal ginkgo biloba creams to cool and solidify for 30 minutes before use.

10. Mentha x piperita

Mentha x piperita, also known as peppermint, creams helps with jet lag because it promotes a sense of refreshment and revitalization.

The menthol in peppermint creams stimulates the brain and helps to increase alertness, making it easier to overcome the fatigue associated with jet lag. Additionally, the cooling sensation of peppermint creams can help to reduce stress and promote a sense of calm, allowing the body to adjust to its new time zone more efficiently.

This can lead to a smoother and more enjoyable travel experience.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita creams that help with jet lag.

• Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound helps alleviate jet lag by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the body, promoting better sleep and relaxation.
• Linalool: As a terpene, linalool has a sedative effect and helps regulate sleep patterns, making it easier to adjust to new time zones and reduce symptoms of jet lag.
• Menthol: This terpene helps improve circulation, which can aid in reducing fatigue and discomfort associated with jet lag, and its refreshing properties can also help stimulate the body and mind.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make creams for jet lag.

• Leaves: They contain menthol, which helps to reduce fatigue and relieve headaches associated with jet lag.
• Leaves: They also contain menthone, which has a calming effect and helps to regulate sleep patterns.
• Leaves: As a natural anti-inflammatory, peppermint leaves can help to reduce swelling and relieve body aches caused by traveling.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for jet lag.

1. Gather 1 pound of fresh menthapiperita leaves and 1 cup of distilled water for the infusion.
2. Steam distill the menthapiperita leaves to obtain 1 ounce of essential oil in 2 hours.
3. Combine 1 ounce of menthapiperita essential oil with 8 ounces of a carrier oil like sweet almond oil.
4. Mix the oil and carrier oil mixture with 16 ounces of a water and emulsifier base in 30 minutes.
5. Whip the mixture with a hand mixer for 10 minutes to create a smooth and creamy texture.

What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for jet lag?

The best combination of herbal creams that help with jet lag is a blend of Peppermint, Lavender, and Chamomile.

Peppermint helps to ease fatigue and mental fogginess, while Lavender promotes relaxation and calms the nervous system. Chamomile soothes the skin and reduces inflammation, making it easier to adjust to a new time zone. Applying a cream containing these herbs can also improve sleep quality and reduce jet lag symptoms, allowing you to feel refreshed and revitalized after a long flight.

This combination can be applied topically to the skin or inhaled for optimal benefits.

What ailments similar to jet lag are treated with herbal creams?

Ailments similar to jet lag that are treated with herbal creams are typically related to circadian rhythm disruptions or sleep disorders.

Herbal creams containing ingredients like valerian root, chamomile, and lavender may help alleviate symptoms of insomnia, restlessness, and fatigue often experienced during times of travel or seasonal changes.

These natural remedies can promote relaxation, reduce stress, and regulate the body's internal clock to improve overall sleep quality.