Forget Deet and Cipro. Try these Natural Alternatives. I’ve been using them for years and want to share them with you.
Maybe you’re not about to go on an African safari, but
Africa isn’t the only place in the world with mosquitoes and the potential for Montezuma’s revenge.
So read on.
My safari travel bag is never without these:
1. Skin So Soft lotion from Avon is a natural remedy for mosquitoes.
It really does help keep mosquitoes away. Avon has actually made a bug spray called skin so soft.
2. Citronelle travel candle is a natural remedy for mosquitoes.
It adds a little extra reading light in my tent while deterring mosquitoes.
3. Purification Essential Oil is another way to deter bugs.
It’s a mixture of rosemary, citronella, tea tree, lavender, and myrtle oils.
I spray it (put a few drops mixed with water into a small spray bottle) on my exposed skin before sitting outside at dusk.
I also recommend it for spraying the mosquito netting over the bed, and on your socks.
4. Probiotics (any good brand will do) is a natural way to prevent stomach problems.
I take it daily while on safari, and give it to anyone on my tour whose stomach is feeling sensitive.
If you take the probiotics soon after you first feel any symptoms, it seems to prevent a full on attack of Montezuma’s revenge. I have many clients who swear by it.
5. Collodial Silver Spray and Evian Spray are natural remedies for heat and germs.
I use the silver spray on the plane (take the small travel size to get through security check).
It adds moisture and protection to nasal passages, helping to avoid catching whatever it is that is flying out of the orifices of the coughing sneezing passengers who always seem to be sitting RIGHT NEXT TO ME.
I use a spray of Evian mist while on wildlife drives to cool down.
Warning: the safari guides will think you’re nuts, or menopausal. Or both.
Did you notice anything in the photo that I did not tell you about? On the right, the roll of Crystal.
It’s a natural roll on deodorant that really does work.
If you have any favorite natural travel remedies I hope you will share them in the comments below.



From the time of my first trip to Africa on assignment as a fashion model in 1984, to my recent role as Africa Adventures Specialist for the Jane Goodall Institute, I've traveled to or lived in eleven African countries. Deepening my life long passion to nature and animals happens easily in Africa, but Africa remains 

10 comments
Alix says:
May 31, 2012
Lori, this is great! I especially like your joke about what the guides will think of you because of the Avian spray – I can picture it. And yes, I did notice that you don’t mention the crystal deodorant in the bottom right corner of the photo. Do you use that in all climates or just while in Africa?
lori says:
May 31, 2012
Thanks for stopping by and commenting. So nice see you here.
I love Crystal deodorant, and found after using it for a year or so I no longer need to use anything at all. But in Africa it can get very hot in the safari vans so I tend to use it there, whether I think i need it or not. One hint though – don’t let anyone else ever use your Crystal deodorant. I can still (its been 10 months) smell my ex-boyfriends pits on my crystal. YUK. Time for a new crystal you might suggest?
I’m frugal and an environmentalist, not a good combo for trashing things and buying new. But before my Africa trip in August I will bite the bullet and buy a new one.
Barbara says:
May 31, 2012
shoot, I was hoping to borrow it….
lori says:
May 31, 2012
Hey go for it. It wont remind YOU of anyone.
Cathy says:
Jun 6, 2012
You gals are so funny. That’s good that you are being frugal because that is sometimes key to a good adventure! Love the Evian spray idea!!
Cathy Trails
lori says:
Jun 6, 2012
Hi Cathy, I am sure with all of your travels you have some great ideas of your own. Happy to hear them here. Thanks so commenting. I always love hearing from you.
Elisa says:
Jun 22, 2012
My most useful travel health aide is quite simple. it is a small nasal spray bottle with salt water. I mix my own with Sea salt and filtered water. It’s very effective on airplanes, dry climates, dust, and pollen allergies.
lori says:
Jun 22, 2012
That is brilliant. Thanks so much for sharing that tip. Do you spray it directly into your nose?
Courtney Throne says:
Mar 22, 2013
Natural remedies are great because of the few side effect you can get from it. ‘
My current web portal
<.http://www.foodsupplementcenter.com/benefits-of-biotin/
Lori says:
Apr 8, 2013
AGREED. Nice to hear from you Courtney. Thanks for your comment.