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continued from page 1
Fear of flying
For the one in six adults who have a flying phobia, a three-hour flight can seem never-ending and worrying about the flight alone can ruin a holiday. Herbal relief may be an option. Valerian, a herb which dampens down the brain chemical that causes anxiety and is often used to treat depression, may help. A product called Sedonium contains 300 mg of the standardised LI-156 extract of dried valerian root, and has been shown in research to reduce feelings of stress and improve sleep quality, leaving you relaxed and refreshed. It's only available from pharmacists (£5.99/30 tablets).

Travel sickness
Travel sickness can spoil your holiday fun by leaving you feeling nauseous and weak after your trip. Some conventional motion sickness remedies can cause drowsiness, but ginger is widely recommended as a natural alternative.

Historically used to treat stomach complaints, recent clinical trials have revealed that the active constituents of the ginger root (gingerols and shogaols) may have anti-nausea and anti-vomiting effects. Helping to rebalance the gastric juices, ginger soothes the stomach and can be used to maintain a healthy digestion. It is usually taken as a capsule or a tea.

You can buy ginger extract from most health food stores. http://www.hollandandbarrett.com Holland & Barrett do their own brand, Good 'n Natural Ginger Root (£5.99/100 capsules, £10.49/200 capsules).

DVT
Most long haul passengers are aware of the dangers of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and how to avoid it but a recent study of short haul travellers between Stansted airport and Italy uncovered the frightening fact that blood clots can develop in the first two to three hours of a flight.

A separate survey carried out by the Aviation Health Institute found that out of 85 DVT-related deaths in the last three years, one in five occurred after a short haul flight. People considered to be at high risk include those who've previously suffered from thrombosis, blood clotting problems, circulatory problems in the legs or significant weight problems. Worried about DVT? Speak to you GP before your journey.

There are some natural options:
Pycnogenol is renowned for its ability to support blood vessels, reinforcing capillary walls and ensuring normal blood flow. It's a natural flavonoid, which helps to prevent abnormal blood clotting and blood leakage through weak vessel walls. (£9.99/60 capsules from Holland & Barrett).

Ginkgo Biloba can improve blood flow to peripheral blood vessels and has been used for centuries in the treatment of poor circulation, varicose veins and thrombosis. It's widely available from pharmacies and health food stores.

Clinical trials on the Tibetan herbal remedy, Padma 28, have shown its ability to help maintain a healthy circulatory system. It contains 20 medicinal herbs that work together to help maintain healthy circulation and can be taken as a preventative measure for those at high risk of developing circulatory disease. Manufactured to pharmaceutical standards, Padma 28 is available from Holland & Barrett, health food stores and pharmacies (£24.95/120 tablets).

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This iVillage Health service area is designed for educational purposes only. You should not rely on this information as a substitute for personal medical attention, diagnosis or hands-on treatment. If you are concerned about your health or that of a child, please consult your family's health provider immediately and do not wait for a response from our professionals. For the full Disclaimer, click here.
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