Motion sickness, sometimes called seasickness or car sickness, causes nausea, cold sweats, fatigue and dizziness. It is a conflict between the various senses in regards to motion in which the signals received by the eyes do not match the signals received by the inner ear, occurring either with or without the presence of actual motion, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Herbal remedies can help alleviate the symptoms of or prevent motion sickness from occurring.
Ginger
Ginger is an herb that has been used for over 2,000 years in treating nausea, stomach upset and diarrhea, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. It can be used to reduce motion sickness symptoms, and ginger can be eaten as the fresh root; in capsule, tablet or powder form; and even as candy. Between 1 and 4 g of the powdered form of ginger can be taken 12 to 24 hours in advance of an activity that causes you motion sickness. Sucking on candied ginger or drinking ginger ale after the motion sickness has occurred can also help alleviate symptoms.
Peppermint
Peppermint is an herb that has calming qualities and helps with motion sickness symptoms. The scent of peppermint can be invigorating and combat feelings of lightheadedness and the suppression of nausea. Peppermint oil is good as a scent to help with motion sickness. Place a few drops on the inside of your wrists, and smell when you feel sickness coming on. Drinking mint tea can alleviate nausea and dizziness, or you can sip it a few hours before a situation that causes motion sickness as a preventative measure.
Chamomile
Chamomile is an herb used primarily as a tea to help alleviate indigestion, colic and cramping, and it relieves stress and anxiety. This herb works well for motion sickness because it helps with digestive upset due to nervousness and anxiety.
Fennel
Fennel is an herb primarily used in recipes, but it is also used to calm stomach upset, making it a great remedy for motion sickness. Eat 20 to 30 fresh fennel seeds to treat motion sickness, or take it in capsule form (300 to 400 mg per day).
Side Effects
Herbal treatments are not approved by the FDA and should be used with caution. If your symptoms worsen or you have an allergic reaction to ingesting herbs, seek medical treatment immediately.
Although ginger is a common herb used in cooking as well as in herbal treatments, it can have side effects like heartburn and gastrointestinal upset. It can also interact with some prescription and over the counter medications.
Peppermint should not be ingested if you have reflux disease or a hiatal hernia. Pregnant and nursing mothers should avoid peppermint as well. Never apply peppermint oil to the face of a child because it may inhibit breathing or cause spasms, and ingesting large doses of peppermint oil can be toxic.
When used properly, chamomile does not have any serious side effects, but some people can develop an allergic reaction to it and get a rash, itch or swell.
