Traveling is definitely worth all the fuss and bother, as the opportunity to go somewhere new and experience a different and exciting culture is, more often than not, quite rewarding. However, we are  still just mere human beings, and no matter how much we may plan and try to protect our bodies, there will always be that risk that something might make us sick while on vacation. The Caribbean’s heath care system is very efficient and you are guaranteed to always have access to the best care possible; but, if you are in one of those unique situations where you don’t need to seek professional care- and all you are looking for is a quick fix, then maybe you could try something all-natural. On the islands many, believe that some of the best remedies to ailments are organic ones, so give it a try and see how it works for you.

Jet-Lag:

The process of traveling can be a physically exhausting one, which can cause a dramatic disturbance to the body’s normal physical and emotional functions. The cyclical pattern of the body often goes haywire, and you might feel lackluster, irritable, sometimes even nauseous. While the body acclimatises itself to its new surroundings, try to reduce  stress to the system as much as possible -so a good night’s rest and some stretches before, during and after the flight will definitely make a difference. On long flights, try to avoid drinking coffee and alcohol. Opt instead for a cup of hot water with peppermint. Fresh peppermint leaves are grown all over the Caribbean- so it’s as easy as asking for some island peppermint tea as soon as you arrive. It will make a world of a difference and you’ll be feeling back to normal in no time.

Sunburn:

The risk of getting sunburned while on vacation in the Caribbean is unfortunately, quite high. It is always advised that you take along the highest level SPF sunblock you can find to help combat the dangerous UV rays of the sun. However, if you do, say, fall asleep one day out in the sun  or lose track of time because you are having so much fun,  the best remedy one can find is actually a natural one- Aloe Vera; and the good thing is that it grows wild and in abundance in the Caribbean. The live aloe vera plant is definitely your best option. Break off a stem, slice it open and lightly smear the open gel side on your burn to ease the burning sensation and keep your skin from blistering and peeling. The aloe vera gel in the bottle is also great; pour it liberally over your burn. It will provide great relief and  have you back frolicking out again in the sun in no time.

Sea Sickness:

Don’t miss your Catamaran cruise or have to cancel your snorkeling or scuba diving expedition just because you get sea sick. If you know you fall within that unfortunate category of people that struggle with motion sickness, don’t despair. Believe it or not, ginger is one of the best and most common natural remedies to help fight sea sickness. A piece of fresh ginger crushed and quickly swallowed, or steeped in hot water to be had like tea will have you feeling back to normal in no time, and it doesn’t have the strange side-effects that some over the counter drugs are known to have. Ginger is also great for just general feelings of nausea or an upset stomach.

Digestive Issues/ Constipation:

Pineapples!! Also grown in abundance on all the islands, the fruit is known to have excellent nutritional and health benefits. If you begin to experience irregularities in your bowel movements due to the changes in your diet, try eating fresh pineapple pieces between your meals. High in the enzyme Bromelain, it is a great aid for the body’s digestive system.

Dehydration:

If you do happen  to experience dehydration while on vacation in the islands, you actually couldn’t be in a better place. All the islands will undoubtedly be chock full of coconut trees, laden with big meaty coconuts. The nutritional and health benefits of coconut really are just endless. It is considered to be nature’s IV and has helped to save lives countless times. It is an all- natural isotonic beverage and really is the best thing one could possibly drink if dehydrated. It helps to boost the metabolism, detoxify the body; it cleanses your digestive tract, refuels after exercise, and helps with poor circulation and quite a few other things.