Feeling nauseous can be overwhelming, but there are simple remedies that can help. Ever felt your stomach churn at the worst possible moment?
Nausea can strike without warning, but relief might be closer than you think. Did you know some of the most trusted remedies for nausea have been used for over 2,500 years?
Whether it's caused by motion sickness, pregnancy, or heat exhaustion, nausea disrupts daily life in ways that demand quick relief. Below, we explore practical remedies—some of which may already be in your kitchen—to help you find relief.
Ginger root has been used for medicinal purposes for over 2,500 years in Japan, China, and India, earning its place as one of the world’s most trusted natural remedies. Modern research supports its effectiveness, with plenty of studies showing that ginger can relieve mild nausea and vomiting, particularly in pregnancy.
It’s important to note that most research focuses on supplements rather than fresh ginger or ginger-containing foods. If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your doctor before incorporating ginger into your routine.
The cooling effect and soothing aroma of peppermint can help ease nausea and discomfort. Research shows that peppermint relaxes the muscles in the gastrointestinal tract and improves bile flow, aiding digestion and reducing nausea. There are many ways to use peppermint, including teas and lozenges, both of which are gentle and effective options.
Additionally, studies have found that peppermint oil can significantly alleviate nausea when used in aromatherapy.
The scent of lemon is known to ease nausea, particularly for those experiencing pregnancy-related symptoms. While the effects of ingesting lemon on nausea are less well-documented, its invigorating aroma offers a simple way to find relief.
Sipping on lemon water or tea combines hydration with the uplifting scent of citrus, making it a versatile remedy. For a quick solution, inhaling the scent of freshly cut lemon or using lemon-scented essential oils can also be effective.
Staying hydrated is essential for managing nausea and vomiting, as dehydration can worsen symptoms. However, taking frequent small sips is key to avoiding further discomfort.
Drinking large gulps or consuming too much fluid too quickly may aggravate nausea and lead to vomiting, creating a cycle of dehydration.
Plain water is a good choice, but for added flavor and electrolytes, try sipping on drinks like clear broths, electrolyte solutions, or water with a squeeze of lemon.
Acupressure, rooted in traditional Chinese medicine, is a massage technique that involves applying pressure to specific points on the body known as acupoints. This practice helps relax muscles and improve blood flow. One acupoint that is particularly effective for relieving nausea is P6. Located on the inner arm near the wrist, it’s easy to find and use.
To locate P6, place three fingers across your wrist, just below the crease. Position your thumb just below your index finger, and remove the other fingers while keeping your thumb in place. You should feel two tendons with a small gap between them—this is P6. Apply firm, steady pressure in a circular motion for two to three minutes, being careful not to press so hard that it causes pain. Repeat the process on the opposite wrist for balanced relief.
Strong odors can sometimes trigger or worsen nausea. For individuals with hyperemesis gravidarum, a severe form of pregnancy-related nausea that affects about one in every 100 pregnancies, certain scents have been shown to intensify symptoms. In a study, scents such as coconut, sesame, menthol, chocolate, ginger, peppermint, lemon, garlic, banana, and fish were identified as particularly problematic.
While this condition heightens sensitivity to smells, anyone can experience nausea from strong odors, whether caused by cooking aromas, specific foods, perfumes, or chemicals.
If you are experiencing nausea and vomiting, eating small, bland meals can help. Try bland foods like toast, potatoes, noodles, baked chicken, and rice, as well as foods with a high water content, like clear soups and popsicles.
There are also foods to avoid when nauseous, including processed foods and greasy foods that contain a lot of salt, like pastries, sausage, white bread, fast food, and fried foods. Dairy products, caffeine, alcohol, spicy foods, and carbonated drinks can also cause more stomach upset.
Fresh air is a simple yet effective way to alleviate nausea, particularly for those affected by motion sickness.
Exposure to fresh air helps cool the body and reduce body temperature, which can ease discomfort. It’s also beneficial for individuals experiencing nausea due to strong odors or chemical exposure. If nausea strikes while you’re indoors or in a vehicle, stepping outside for a walk and taking slow, deep breaths can provide relief.
Over-the-counter medications can provide temporary relief from nausea in certain cases. When considering these remedies, read and follow the packaging instructions carefully to ensure safe and effective use.
If you’re unsure about a product’s suitability or have underlying health conditions, speak with a pharmacist for personalized guidance.
Herbal teas offer a soothing option for managing nausea, with varieties like fennel, chamomile, cinnamon, ginger, lemon, and peppermint standing out for their potential benefits. These herbs may help calm the stomach and alleviate discomfort.
Additionally, sipping tea encourages hydration and promotes the habit of taking small, frequent sips—a gentle approach to staying hydrated without worsening nausea symptoms.
Distraction techniques can be an effective way to manage nausea by shifting focus away from discomfort. Engaging in light activities such as listening to music, watching a movie, or reading a book can provide relief.
Deep breathing exercises, which help relax the body, are another beneficial approach. If possible, take a short walk around the block or simply sit outside in the fresh air to combine movement with the calming effects of nature.
Nausea without vomiting can stem from various factors and is often not serious. However, when accompanied by vomiting, it is most commonly linked to viral infections or early pregnancy.
Adults should seek medical attention if nausea and vomiting persist for more than two days, occur intermittently for over a month, or are accompanied by unexplained weight loss. For children, vomiting lasting more than 24 hours warrants a visit to a healthcare provider, and for infants, medical care is necessary if vomiting persists beyond 12 hours.
If nausea and vomiting are accompanied by severe symptoms such as blurred vision, high fever, stiff neck, confusion, intense pain, bleeding, or the presence of fecal matter or odor in vomit, call 911 or seek emergency assistance immediately. Signs of dehydration, including dry mouth, excessive thirst, dark urine or no urine, dizziness, or weakness, also require prompt medical care.
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