What are the Home Remedies for Motion Sickness?
February 12, 2024 | by Sravani Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Motion sickness occurs when the brain receives conflicting signals from the inner ear, eyes, and other sensory systems, typically while traveling in a vehicle or on a boat. While there is no single guaranteed cure for motion sickness, there are several home remedies and lifestyle changes that may help alleviate symptoms or reduce their severity:
- Choose the Right Seat: When traveling by car, sit in the front seat and look out the windshield to focus on the horizon and reduce motion sickness symptoms. On a boat, sit in the middle near the waterline, where motion is least felt.
- Stay Calm and Relaxed: Anxiety and stress can exacerbate motion sickness symptoms. Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or listening to soothing music to help stay calm during travel.
- Ginger: Ginger has anti-nausea properties and may help alleviate symptoms of motion sickness. Try consuming ginger in various forms, such as ginger tea, ginger candies, ginger ale, or ginger supplements, before and during travel.
- Acupressure Bands: Wearing acupressure bands, which apply pressure to specific points on the wrist associated with nausea relief, may help alleviate motion sickness symptoms for some people.
- Peppermint: Peppermint has soothing properties that may help relieve nausea and vomiting associated with motion sickness. Sip on peppermint tea or suck on peppermint candies during travel.
- Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can worsen motion sickness symptoms. Drink plenty of water before and during travel to stay hydrated and help prevent nausea.
- Avoid Heavy Meals: Avoid eating large or heavy meals before traveling, as a full stomach can exacerbate motion sickness symptoms. Opt for light, easily digestible snacks such as crackers, pretzels, or plain toast.
- Fresh Air: Open windows or vents to allow fresh air to circulate in the vehicle or boat, as stale or stuffy air can worsen motion sickness symptoms.
- Visual Focus: Focus on a fixed point in the distance, such as the horizon or a distant object, to help stabilize your visual perception and reduce feelings of dizziness and nausea.
- Avoid Triggering Activities: Limit activities that may trigger motion sickness, such as reading, using electronic devices, or watching movies, especially in a moving vehicle or boat.
It’s important to note that not all home remedies may work for everyone, and some individuals may require additional measures or medical interventions to manage motion sickness effectively. If you experience severe or persistent motion sickness symptoms, consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment options. They can recommend medications such as antihistamines or prescription drugs to help alleviate symptoms and improve your travel experience.