Indigestion, motion sickness, morning sickness… at some point, everyone experiences nausea. I vividly recall a severe bout of food poisoning from years ago! Handling nausea is never enjoyable, but these home remedies can offer relief.
Understanding the Causes of Nausea
There’s no universal solution to alleviating nausea. The first step is identifying the underlying cause, which helps in selecting an appropriate natural remedy. Even if you’re unsure of what’s triggering the discomfort, these remedies may still be beneficial.
Motion Sickness
Traveling by car, boat, or plane can induce motion sickness and lead to nausea. In a car, taking a break for fresh air may help, though this isn’t feasible on an airplane! Motion sickness occurs when the inner ear, brain, and eyes send conflicting signals, disrupting balance controlled by the inner ear. The disconnect between perceived motion and actual body movement triggers nausea symptoms.
Effects of Cancer Treatments
Patients undergoing treatments like chemotherapy or radiation often experience nausea. For example, chemotherapy, commonly used for conditions like breast cancer, is harsh on the body and may affect brain areas linked to vomiting. It can also irritate the stomach, causing gastrointestinal symptoms. Approximately 80% of chemotherapy patients experience treatment-induced nausea.
Pregnancy and Morning Sickness
While the growing baby is a joy, the nausea it brings can be challenging. Many pregnant women suffer from morning sickness during the first trimester, but some continue to experience it in later stages as well.
Food Poisoning
A pleasant meal that turns into a nightmare at 3 am due to nausea and vomiting is far from fun. This often results from consuming harmful microbes, bacteria, viruses, or chemicals. Symptoms include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, fever, and headaches.
Additional health conditions that can cause or coincide with nausea include:
- Indigestion and acid reflux (heartburn)
- Overeating
- Bloating and constipation
- Migraines
- Peptic or gastric ulcers
- Menstrual cramps
- Heat stroke and heat exhaustion
- Heart attack
- Certain medications and treatments
Conventional Treatments for Nausea
Pharmacies offer various over-the-counter anti-nausea medications. While these can be effective, they sometimes bring undesirable side effects like confusion, dizziness, and breathing difficulties. Although these drugs might alleviate nausea, they could cause additional issues. Consequently, I often turn to natural remedies.
Home Remedies to Relieve Nausea
Once the cause of the upset stomach is identified, choosing an effective remedy becomes easier. Here are some of my preferred nausea remedies and their applications.
1. Acupuncture and Acupressure
These therapies both engage energy pathways in the body but differ in technique. Acupuncture involves fine needles and is performed by professionals, whereas acupressure applies firm pressure to specific areas. Acupressure can be applied at home to alleviate nausea. A commonly used point is between the thumb and index finger. Apply pressure for 3-4 minutes as needed. Wristbands like Sea-Bands activate pressure points to relieve nausea and are safe for children and pregnant women.
2. Essential Oils for Nausea
Essential oils are versatile, and my family uses them daily. Diffusing essential oils with aromatherapy benefits also helps curb nausea. Peppermint oil is a popular choice, along with lemon oil, especially for pregnancy-related nausea. These oils contain compounds that combat harmful microbes when inhaled. The refreshing smell of peppermint oil soothes nausea. Ginger and bergamot mint are other effective options. A 2021 study found that pairing peppermint oil with medication reduced nausea more effectively than medication alone. Similarly, a 2020 study observed reduced nausea and vomiting after heart surgery when peppermint oil was inhaled.
To Duse: Diffuse or inhale essential oils like peppermint, lemon, bergamot mint, or ginger as needed.
3. Peppermint Tea
Like peppermint oil, peppermint tea alleviates nausea and is safe for children. It’s also utilized for other digestive issues, such as bloating and irritable bowel syndrome. Those with GERD or acid reflux should consume mint cautiously, as it may aggravate symptoms.
To Use: Steep 1-2 teaspoons of mint in a cup of hot water for 10 minutes. Strain and sip as needed.
4. Ginger
Ginger is a common home remedy for nausea and gastrointestinal upset. Crystallized ginger chews offer a convenient option, and ginger tea or ale are also effective. A 2015 review acknowledged ginger’s efficacy in reducing nausea from various sources. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends ginger over anti-nausea medication during pregnancy, with some studies indicating it outperforms the antiemetic drug dimenhydrinate.
To Use: Studies showed using 1 gram of ginger supplements daily. For tea, up to 3-5 grams of fresh ginger or 2 teaspoons of dried ginger daily is advised. Ginger may interact with blood thinners and medications for diabetes and high blood pressure, so consult a healthcare provider.
6. Fresh Air
Stepping outside for fresh air can be beneficial. Nausea often causes a drop in core body temperature, prompting the body to cool down. Cold air or ice packs can offset this temperature increase.
To Use: Breathe deeply and control your breathing. If you’re in a car, roll down a window. Try to step outside and breathe.
7. Gentle Movement
If digestion issues or overeating are the cause, moderate exercise improves digestion and may reduce nausea. However, evaluate if exercise suits your situation.
To Use: Take a walk or engage in gentle exercise. Avoid bending forward.
8. Cinnamon for Menstrual Cramps
Hormonal imbalances can lead to difficult menstrual cycles, and addressing these issues is key. Cinnamon can provide relief from cramping that induces nausea. A 2015 study found cinnamon supplements reduced bleeding, pain, nausea, and vomiting without adverse effects.
To Use: Drink cinnamon tea or take supplements. The study participants took 3 capsules of cinnamon daily, each containing 420 mg. Cinnamon can lower blood sugar and may interact with medications for diabetes.
9. Pregnancy Nausea Relief
Having gone through six pregnancies, I have gathered tips for managing nausea. Some doctors suggest nausea indicates sufficient pregnancy hormones. Others cite nutritional deficiencies. Consider these solutions:
- Steer clear of smells that trigger nausea.
- Eat smaller, frequent meals.
- Drink water between meals, not during, to avoid diluting digestive juices.
- Choose simple, nutrient-packed foods.
- Keep a fan handy or get fresh air.
- Inhale peppermint or lemon oil.
- Sip ginger ale, lemon water, or mint tea.
- Vitamin B6 supplements may help ease pregnancy nausea.
Suitable Foods When You Have Nausea
When dealing with nausea, food may be unappealing. If it’s due to food poisoning, allow your system to clear before eating. During pregnancy, avoid prolonged fasting. Start with bland foods, like applesauce, bananas, and rice. Pregnant women may benefit from frequent small meals and snacks. Staying hydrated is crucial, so consider electrolyte solutions to prevent dehydration, especially after lengthy sun exposure without adequate water. I prefer homemade sports drinks or LMNT electrolyte mixes for convenience.
When to Consult a Medical Professional
Trust your instincts; if something feels seriously wrong, seek medical advice.
- Dehydration from prolonged sun exposure risks heat exhaustion or stroke.
- Nausea might signal a heart attack, especially if accompanied by lightheadedness and a cold sweat.
- Pregnant women facing severe nausea, vomiting, and weight loss could have Hyperemesis Gravidarum (HG).
If nausea signals a pressing health issue, contacting a healthcare professional is critical.
Takeaway on Nausea Remedies
Numerous factors can temporarily cause nausea, and thankfully, many home remedies provide relief. Take a moment to get fresh air, stay calm, and find which remedies benefit you most.
What remedies have you tried for nausea? Feel free to share any additional suggestions!
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