Surely, there is no shortage of anti-nausea over-the-counter pharmaceuticals on the market. But popular options, like Gravol, can come with an array of unwanted effects that can be a less-than-ideal trade-off. If you’ve got things to do that require alertness and focus, you’ve got no time for the potential drowsiness, dizziness, and headaches that may come along with these products.
Thankfully, some natural alternative remedies can work as quickly and effectively as pharmaceuticals without unwanted effects. If you experience nausea as a result of motion sickness or medical treatments, here are some ways that you could help suppress it.
- Ginger: Plenty of evidence exists saying that ginger can quell nausea resulting from a variety of causes. Although the exact function is not fully understood, the nausea-fighting effects may come from compounds called “gingerols” that suppress serotonin, which mimics the way pharmaceuticals work. There are a couple of ways to take ginger, including adding 0.5-1.5 grams of fresh root to a tea. You can also stir a half-teaspoon of ginger powder into water, take ginger capsules, or eat crystallized ginger.
- Acupressure: Acupressure can also subdue or prevent nausea. There are a couple of ways you can use it. The first is to purchase a wristband that has a little peg on the inside. The peg should press against the “Nei Guan point,” which is located about two finger widths from the wrist on the inside of the arm. Electromagnetic wristbands can also send a pulse to stimulate the area. The other way is with your hand. When nausea strikes, locate the point and press down with you thumb for about a minute before switching arms. Repeat if symptoms continue.
- Peppermint: Peppermint can help tame nausea when taken orally or as aromatherapy. Studies indicate the scent of peppermint can reduce nausea and taking it through an inhaler may help in as little as two minutes. Diluted essential oils are best for inhalation or chewing peppermint gum may help.
- Focusing ahead: If you experience motion sickness while traveling by car or boat, focusing on a fixed point, like the horizon, can help. If you experience motion sickness-related nausea on an airplane, try closing your eyes, taking a nap, or chewing peppermint gum.
All of these natural remedies can help you tame nausea when needed. There are a few caveats, however. If you believe your nausea is related to food poisoning, it’s best to let it out. Also, if nausea persists for two days, it’s highly recommended you go and see your doctor.