For centuries people have relied on ginger root to fight motion sickness, including seasickness. According to MotherNature.com, voyagers to the New World may have relied on ginger to decrease seasickness during their journey. Seasickness occurs when the inner ears send signals to the brains that do not match up with what the eyes are seeing. The imbalance causes dizziness, queasiness, sweating. and eventually nausea and severe vomiting. MedlinePlus reports there is not sufficient evidence ginger decreases motion sickness. Still, the natural remedy may be worth trying before choosing prescription medications. As with any natural remedy, consult with your doctor before taking ginger for seasickness.
Types
Ginger comes in a variety of forms. You can purchase natural ginger at the grocery store, slice it into ¼ oz. pieces and chew on it. Drop the slice of ginger root into hot water and allow to brew for 10 to 20 minutes to form ginger tea. Drink ginger tea two to four times a day. Natural ginger is very potent, and not everyone can handle the herb in its natural form. Opt for ginger capsules when fighting seasickness. Take 1 g of ginger capsules every three hours, but no more than 4 g a day, advises the University of Maryland Medical Center. Food sources such as gingersnaps and ginger ale also contain ginger but in extremely low doses.
Timing
Begin taking ginger 12 to 24 hours before your voyage. The ginger may not be effective once your seasickness has set in. Before your voyage, abstain from alcohol and avoid eating greasy foods, which may increase your risk of seasickness.
Contraindications
As a natural supplement, ginger is not regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Ginger thins blood and decreases clotting time. If you are taking additional anticoagulant drugs or supplements, taking ginger is not recommended. Medications include warfarin, heparin and aspirin. Supplements with anticoagulant effects include fish oil, willow and ginkgo. Do not combine ginger with other motion sickness medications.
Additional Uses
Ginger may decrease morning sickness in pregnant women during the early stages of pregnancy. The herb may also reduce nausea associated with invasive surgery. Chemotherapy patients may also decrease a queasy stomach by using ginger. Do not use ginger if you are pregnant or undergoing medical care unless under the direct supervision of a medical professional.
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