Are you one of the nearly 20% of travelers who dread the nausea that comes with car, train, plane, or boat journeys? Motion sickness can be a trip-ruining experience, often caused by a disconnect between visual signals and our sense of balance, leading to discomfort in the inner ear. While some people struggle with this condition throughout their lives, others may only face it occasionally. Symptoms typically include malaise, nausea, headaches, cold sweats, and, in more severe cases, vomiting. Thankfully, there are natural remedies to help alleviate these symptoms without relying on medications. Let’s dive into three herbal teas that can support your journey and who should avoid them.
1. Ginger Tea
Ginger is hailed as one of the most effective natural remedies for motion sickness. Supported by numerous studies and endorsed by the World Health Organization, ginger contains gingerol, a compound that helps regulate stomach function and combat nausea.
For an easy remedy, steep a fresh slice of ginger in boiling water for about ten minutes to make a soothing tea. If the taste of pure ginger is too strong for your palate, consider adding a slice of lemon or a touch of honey to enhance the flavor. Chewing on fresh ginger is another option, though it may not be for everyone.
Who Should Avoid Ginger?
While ginger is generally safe, individuals taking blood-thinning medications, those with gallbladder issues, or those with heart conditions should seek advice from a healthcare professional before incorporating ginger into their diet, as it may interact with certain conditions or medications.
2. Lemon and Peppermint Tea
Lemon and peppermint essential oils combine to form a potent remedy for motion sickness, especially beneficial for those who experience nausea along with headaches. For optimal effectiveness, this blend should be consumed about half an hour before your journey.
To prepare the tea, steep a teaspoon of dried peppermint leaves and dried lemon rinds in hot water for 5 to 10 minutes. If you’re short on time or don’t have dried ingredients on hand, you can quickly mix a teaspoon of honey with a drop each of lemon and peppermint essential oils in a 4 oz glass of warm water for a convenient alternative. This quick concoction can offer immediate relief. Additionally, if you start to feel nauseous during your trip, inhaling peppermint essential oil directly from the bottle can provide swift comfort.
Who Should Avoid This Remedy? It’s essential to remember that peppermint essential oil is highly concentrated and should not be used by children under seven years old. Additionally, not all essential oils are created equal; ensure you choose a brand that is labeled as food grade or safe for internal use.
3. Banana Tea
Many people believe that skipping meals before a journey can help prevent motion sickness, but this is a misconception. An empty stomach can lead to increased nausea. Instead, consuming easy-to-digest foods like bananas can help. This fruit is gentle on the stomach and can help soothe heartburn.
To enjoy the benefits of bananas, consider making banana tea by steeping an organic banana peel in hot water. This calming drink is perfect for warming up your stomach before you travel.
Who Should Avoid Bananas? While bananas are a great option for many, individuals with certain food intolerances or allergies should exercise caution. Additionally, people with specific medical conditions, like diabetes, should monitor their carbohydrate intake, as bananas can be higher in sugar.
Final Thoughts
With these three herbal teas in your toolkit, you’re now prepared to tackle motion sickness naturally. Remember to explore each remedy and find what works best for you. Try to use organic ingredients, filtered water and raw unfiltered or local honey if you can. However use what you have if those aren’t always an available option. Always consult a healthcare professional if you have any concerns or underlying health conditions. Here’s to smoother travels and a more enjoyable journeys ahead!
– Happy Healing from Hooser Health 🌿
