21 Natural Solutions to Alleviate Motion Sickness

That unsettling sensation when the world seems to sway, bob, or move uncontrollably can strike during any form of travel. Known as motion sickness, this condition affects some individuals more than others, with experts suggesting a possible genetic link. Historically, it has even caused pilots to abandon training during World War II, and modern-day NASA astronauts continue to face challenges with it during space missions.

Typically, the brain processes signals from the eyes, inner ears, skin, and muscles to determine the body's position and movement. Motion sickness arises when conflicting signals from the eyes and inner ears overwhelm this system, leading to symptoms like sweating, dizziness, rapid breathing, nausea, and vomiting.

For certain individuals, motion sickness can be triggered by simple activities like navigating supermarket aisles or observing passing scenery from a car window. Even watching an intense film on a large screen in a theater can induce this condition in some people.

By following a few straightforward measures, you can potentially avoid motion sickness altogether or ease its symptoms once they start. Explore the next page for effective home-based solutions.

For additional insights on addressing stomach-related issues, check out the following resources:

This content is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Neither the Editors of Consumer Guide (R), Publications International, Ltd., the author, nor the publisher assume responsibility for any outcomes resulting from treatments, procedures, exercises, dietary changes, actions, or medications based on this information. This publication does not substitute professional medical advice, and readers should consult their physician or healthcare provider before starting any treatment. Mention of any product does not imply endorsement by Publications International, Ltd. or Mytour.com, nor does it suggest that these products should be used as described herein.

Natural Solutions for Motion Sickness

For those prone to motion sickness, finding relief from that nauseating sensation is a top priority. Below are some home remedies that could help alleviate the discomfort.

Select the optimal seat. Aim for a spot where movement is minimal. On an airplane, request an aisle seat near the wings. On trains, choose a carriage closer to the front. In cars, sit in the front seat, and on ships, book a cabin near the center of the vessel.

Stay seated. Remaining seated helps avoid unnecessary movement, which can worsen stomach discomfort during travel.

Position yourself forward. Sit facing the direction of travel to align the motion your body feels with what your eyes see, reducing sensory conflict.

Limit head motion. Sudden head movements can intensify motion sickness, so try to keep your head as still as possible.

Stay above deck. If you feel nauseous on a boat, resist the urge to go below. Staying on deck allows your eyes to perceive the same motion your body is experiencing.

Focus on the horizon. To reduce dizziness, fix your gaze on a distant, stable point like the horizon where the sky meets the earth or water. This helps align what your eyes see with the motion your body feels, unlike watching nearby objects that zip by.

Avoid reading while traveling. Reading keeps your eyes focused on a stationary object while your body senses movement, creating sensory conflict. Instead, look at the road ahead or a distant object to synchronize your senses.

Take the wheel. Drivers are less likely to experience motion sickness because their focus is on the road, reducing sensory discrepancies.

Eat lightly or skip meals. Eating may help some people, while others find it worsens their condition. Test what works best for you. Consume plain crackers or toast about an hour before traveling. If it causes discomfort, avoid eating next time to keep your stomach settled.

Steer clear of rich foods and strong smells. Spicy, greasy foods and potent odors can trigger motion sickness before or during travel. Avoid eating at places like roadside diners.

Avoid alcohol. Drinking alcoholic beverages before or during travel can exacerbate motion sickness symptoms.

Stay relaxed and composed. Anxiety about getting sick or traveling can sometimes induce nausea. Stay calm, take deep breaths, and reassure yourself that you’ll be fine.

Consider over-the-counter solutions. Medications like Dramamine, Bonine, or Marezine should be taken at least an hour before traveling for best results. Always read the label for warnings, such as drowsiness or blurred vision, and take precautions like avoiding driving.

Avoid those who are feeling unwell. The power of suggestion can be strong, particularly if you’re prone to motion sickness. Let someone with a stronger stomach assist the sick person, while you focus on the horizon or a distant, stable point.

Lifestyle changes aren’t the only way to combat motion sickness. In the next section, we’ll explore nutritional home remedies to ease that uneasy feeling in your stomach.

For additional tips on addressing stomach issues, check out the following links:

This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Neither the Editors of Consumer Guide (R), Publications International, Ltd., the author, nor the publisher assume responsibility for any outcomes resulting from treatments, procedures, exercises, dietary changes, actions, or medications based on this information. This publication does not substitute professional medical advice, and readers should consult their physician or healthcare provider before starting any treatment. Mention of any product does not imply endorsement by Publications International, Ltd. or Mytour.com, nor does it suggest that these products should be used as described herein.

Natural Solutions for Motion Sickness

No one is entirely immune to motion sickness, not even astronauts. Thankfully, certain foods and drinks can help ease or even prevent it. Here are some remedies to consider.

Home Remedies From the Pantry

Crackers. Pack these light, easy-to-digest snacks and munch on them every few hours to stave off nausea and vomiting. An empty stomach increases the likelihood of feeling unwell.

Ginger. Ginger has been a trusted herbal remedy for nausea for centuries, and modern research confirms its effectiveness, particularly for motion sickness. Studies show ginger can outperform over-the-counter medications. Prepare ginger tea for travel by boiling 10-12 slices of fresh ginger in 1 quart of water for ten minutes. Strain, and sweeten with 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup if desired.

Low-fat foods. Consuming a low-fat meal before traveling can help prevent sickness. Eating beforehand stabilizes your stomach, making it better equipped to handle motion. Skipping meals disrupts stomach signals, increasing the risk of nausea and vomiting.

Peppermint candies or lozenges. If nausea strikes, reach for peppermints. They not only freshen your breath but also soothe your stomach. For children, a drop of peppermint oil on the tongue before travel can help prevent queasiness.

Tea. Sip warm tea to ease nausea. Warm drinks are gentler on an upset stomach than cold beverages. Opt for decaffeinated tea, as caffeine can worsen stomach discomfort.

Home Remedies From the Freezer

Ice. Sucking on ice chips can soothe your stomach and distract you from feelings of nausea.

Home Remedies From the Fridge

Apple juice. Pair a glass of apple juice with your pre-travel low-fat meal. A bit of sugar and fluids before your journey can help stabilize your stomach. If nausea arises, sip (don’t gulp) some juice to ease discomfort. Stick to non-citrus options, as citrus juices can irritate an upset stomach.

Motion sickness, whether triggered by planes, trains, or cars, can be debilitating. Use the home remedies in this article to prevent or alleviate that queasy feeling before it takes hold.

For additional insights on addressing stomach issues, explore the following links:

David J. Hufford, Ph.D., is a university professor and chair of the Medical Humanities Department at Pennsylvania State University's College of Medicine. He also holds professorships in the departments of Neural and Behavioral Sciences and Family and Community Medicine. Dr. Hufford serves on the editorial boards of several journals, including Alternative Therapies in Health & Medicine and Explore.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Neither the Editors of Consumer Guide (R), Publications International, Ltd., the author, nor the publisher assume responsibility for any outcomes resulting from treatments, procedures, exercises, dietary changes, actions, or medications based on this information. This publication does not substitute professional medical advice, and readers should consult their physician or healthcare provider before starting any treatment.

The brand names mentioned in this publication are trademarks or service marks of their respective companies. Mention of any product does not imply endorsement by Publications International, Ltd. or Mytour.com, nor does it suggest that these products should be used as described herein.