Whether you have chronic motion sickness every time you enter a moving vehicle or you’ve only experienced it a handful of times, it’s worth knowing how to fend off the unwanted side effects. “Motion sickness can be overwhelming and can ruin travel, car trips, boating or even swimming in the ocean,” says Chinese and integrative medicine expert Dr. Elizabeth Trattner. In addition to trusted over-the-counter solutions, which we discuss, she notes there are many natural approaches to managing motion sickness. We gathered some expert tips for alleviating motion sickness. As a bonus, Dr. Trattner notes these tricks can also work for pregnancy-related nausea.
Featured experts
- Dr. Elizabeth Trattner is a Chinese and integrative medicine expert
- Dr. Thara Vayali is a naturopathic doctor, nutritionist and the co-founder and Chief Medical Officer of hey freya
What causes motion sickness?
So, what causes the dreaded motion sickness? “A mismatch in the sensory input system. It occurs when the vestibular system (inner ear and balance) and the visual or proprioceptive system are out of sync,” explains naturopathic doctor, nutritionist and co-founder of hey freya Dr. Thara Vayali. More simply, Dr. Trattner says the brain receives conflicting signals from the eyes, inner ears and body, which can result in dizziness, nausea and vomiting.
What are some motion sickness solutions?
Motion Sickness Glasses
A recent favorite find of mine is motion sickness glasses, like these Hion Motion Sickness Glasses from Amazon ($10). When I wore these in Greece, the glasses perplexed the gas station attendant but got me through winding roads without too much discomfort. These work by creating an artificial horizon with blue liquid that moves with the car’s motion.
Antihistamines
Antihistamines are an over-the-counter medication known to be effective at preventing motion sickness symptoms. They’re thought to work by helping block “H1 receptors in the brain to reduce the signals that cause motion sickness,” explains Dr. Vayali. “First-generation antihistamines like dimenhydrinate (Dramamine) are commonly used and work by helping the body maintain its sense of balance, though they may cause drowsiness as a side effect.”
Ginger
Ginger, whether it be candy, tea or the root, reduces the nausea and vomiting that come with motion sickness. “Its antiemetic properties are attributed to gingerols and shogaols, which act on the gastrointestinal tract by increasing gastric tone and motility through antagonizing acetylcholine and serotonin receptors,” explains Dr. Vayali. She also notes there are studies demonstrating ginger’s efficacy in preventing and treating mild to moderate cases of motion sickness. Dr. Trattner’s favorite ginger solution is Gin Gins ($24), which she’s used in practice for almost 30 years. “They’re portable and delicious!”
Pressure Points
“PC6, also known as the Pericardium 6 or Nei Kuan point, in Traditional Chinese Medicine, is an acupuncture point located on the inner wrist that has been shown to alleviate motion sickness. When stimulated through acupressure or acupuncture, PC6 can significantly reduce the incidence of nausea and vomiting associated with motion sickness,” says Dr. Vayali.
“About three finger-widths below the base of the wrist crease, between the tendons, make a fist and slide your finger into this point,” directs Dr. Trattner. “Stimulating this point is believed to balance the flow of energy (Qi) and relieve nausea and vomiting.”
The efficacy of PC6 stimulation in preventing nausea and vomiting has been demonstrated through a handful of clinical trials, notes Dr. Vayali. “While the exact mechanism is not fully understood, it is believed that stimulating PC6 may help resolve the sensory conflict in the brain that leads to motion sickness symptoms,” explains Dr. Vayali.
Nausea-related pressure point treatment on the go is often seen in Sea-Bands ($23), which “apply continuous pressure to the P6 acupressure point, offering a non-drug alternative for motion sickness relief,” says Dr. Trattner. “I used these during my entire pregnancy and recommend to all my patients whether they are traveling or pregnant or both,” she notes.
Peppermint
According to research and Dr. Trattner, “Peppermint has a soothing effect on the stomach muscles and can reduce the feeling of nausea.” To experience the benefits, Dr. Trattner states, “It can be consumed as a tea or used in essential oil form for inhalation.” We love Saje Peppermint Halo ($33), but even chewing peppermint gum can be helpful.
Cognitive-Behavioral Techniques
“Cognitive-behavioral techniques, such as deep breathing and visualization, can help manage the anxiety and discomfort associated with motion sickness,” says Dr. Trattner. This “works by focusing the mind away from the conflicting signals.”
Chamomile
You’re likely familiar with the soothing benefits of chamomile tea before bed. The herb can have a similar effect during a motion sickness spell. The calming herb helps soothe the stomach and reduce nausea by relaxing the digestive tract muscles and reducing inflammation, explains Dr. Trattner. However, she warns that if you have an allergy to ragweed, you should stay away from chamomile.
Vitamin B6
“Vitamin B6 is known for its role in neurotransmitter function and has been used to treat nausea, particularly in pregnancy,” says Dr. Trattner. “It may help reduce nausea by stabilizing the balance of neurotransmitters in the brain. B6 can be taken in pill form or by injection.”
Lavender
Lavender is widely beloved for its soothing effects. It’s even in many night creams and relaxing candles. These calming benefits can also positively impact the nervous system and help reduce anxiety, which often accompanies and exacerbates motion sickness, says Dr. Trattner. She recommends using lavender as an essential oil for inhalation or applying it to the skin.
Hydration and Small, Frequent Meals
If you’re anticipating a long road trip or spending the day on a boat, it’s best to plan ahead. “Staying hydrated and eating small, frequent meals can help keep your blood sugar stable and reduce the likelihood of nausea,” says Dr. Trattner. She also advises avoiding heavy, greasy foods to minimize symptoms.
Fennel
Fennel is perhaps one of the more seemingly random solutions on this list. Nonetheless, it’s shown to help alleviate motion sickness. It “has carminative properties, meaning it can help prevent gas formation and settle the stomach. It’s often used to relieve digestive issues and reduce nausea,” says Dr. Trattner.
Acupuncture
Similar to PC6 stimulation acupressure, acupuncture involves “stimulating specific points on the body to balance energy flow (Qi) and relieve symptoms. It has been shown to be effective for various types of nausea, including motion sickness,” says Dr. Trattner, who gives Outlander a shoutout for depicting Jamie getting acupuncture for his motion sickness.
Licorice Root
“Licorice root has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which can help reduce stomach discomfort and nausea. It may also help balance cortisol levels, reducing stress-induced nausea,” explains Dr. Trattner. However, she notes that users have to be careful as licorice can elevate blood pressure. She recommends getting a DGL licorice.
