Holiday time is an obstacle course for well-being.
Take flying, for example. The average level of humidity in the UK is 65 per cent while in the cabin of an airliner cruising at 35,000ft it is just one per cent.
Then there are engine fumes which leak into the cabin; the pesticides paranoid governments insist on pumping over us before we set foot on their precious soil; and, of course, the re-circulated air we share with fellow passengers.
Hardly surprising then that anything more than a couple of hours in the air leaves us feeling exhausted and looking like prunes. And once at our destination, many of us drink alcohol, over-indulge in rich food, go to bed late or lie too long in the sun.
It can all take its toll, so it is wise to prepare for, and understand how to deal with the stresses - and excesses - of holidaying.
When I go away, a homeopathic travel kit from Ainsworths is top of my list. It includes the remedies, sprays and creams intended for most ailments. On the flight I use a remedy called Air Cabin Pollution along with combination of arnica and cocculus, both taken at two-hour intervals to overcome jet-lag (arnica to deal with exhaustion, energy levels and muscular reaction to sitting for long periods and cocculus for overcoming disorientation and the resulting symptoms, eg nausea).
Also from Ainsworths, `Emergency Spray' is a must - it blends Dr Bach's original rescue remedy with flower essences to reduce stress and anxiety. It's great for coping with last-minute panics and even trying to get to the airport. It costs £5.95 for 21mL
`Emergency Cream' is to soothe and restore my face and body, both on the flight and after sun. It costs £5.99 for a 40ml tube.
My most reliable standby is Nux Vomica, a brilliant antidote for nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea or other problems. caused by holiday food- and drink. I take with me Injury 30 for cuts, bruises, strains and burns; antiseptic calendula which promotes healing, plus Hypericum & Urtica cream to combine pain relief and respite from sunburn and bites.
Finally, there's refreshing Cleanse & Protect – a wonderfully fragrant Dr Bach flower combination that will keep your mind clear and your spirits high and cleanse the space around you.
These are all available from www.ainsworths.com, where qualified homeopaths can deal with specific needs. Also try www.nealsyardremedies.com.
By Carole Caplin First published in the Mail on Sunday