Feeling nauseous is a common experience. Whether it’s triggered by chemotherapy, food reactions, medication, stress, motion sickness, or the dreaded morning sickness of pregnancy, that queasy feeling can disrupt your day.
“Nausea can stem from a huge range of factors,” explains Cynthia Ulreich, NP, a seasoned nurse practitioner at Henry Ford Health. “It’s a frequent symptom we see with conditions from acid reflux to hormonal changes.”
Fortunately, you don’t have to let nausea control you. Ulreich offers valuable insights into effective remedies to help you find relief.
Proven Nausea Remedies
Nausea itself isn’t an illness, but a signal that something’s off balance. Regardless of whether your nausea is due to pregnancy, acid reflux, medication side effects, or other triggers, these seven remedies might provide you with much-needed comfort:
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Ginger Power: Ginger has long been recognized as a natural soother for nausea, upset stomach, and even diarrhea. While the exact mechanism isn’t fully understood, research indicates ginger has antispasmodic properties that can calm the gut. Numerous studies confirm ginger’s effectiveness in reducing nausea related to pregnancy and chemotherapy. If raw ginger isn’t appealing, try ginger snaps, ginger ale made with real ginger, or a comforting cup of ginger tea.
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Acupressure Relief: Traditional Chinese medicine has long utilized acupressure, applying pressure to specific body points, to alleviate nausea and vomiting. This technique is believed to stimulate nerves that signal the brain to release hormones that combat nausea. Research suggests acupressure can be beneficial for nausea caused by cancer treatments, acid reflux, and other conditions. For continuous relief, consider acupressure wristbands, readily available at pharmacies. These bands apply consistent pressure to a specific acupressure point on the wrist to help minimize queasiness.
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Aromatherapy for Calm: Inhaling certain scents, known as aromatherapy, can be a surprisingly effective way to calm a troubled stomach. “Scents can help distract the nausea centers in the brain by introducing new sensory input,” Ulreich notes. Gentle scents like lavender, lemon, and peppermint are known for their soothing properties. For aromatherapy, use an essential oil diffuser or place a few drops on a tissue to inhale when nausea strikes. Always remember to dilute essential oils with a carrier oil like coconut, jojoba, almond, or olive oil when applying them to your skin.
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Fresh Air Fix: “Stepping outside and getting fresh air can boost your sense of well-being and help reduce nausea,” says Ulreich. Simply changing your environment can help shift your focus away from the unpleasant sensation in your stomach.
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Deep Breathing Exercises: Practicing deep breathing, meditation, or guided imagery can be a powerful tool for nausea relief. Conscious, deep breaths can help calm your nervous system and ease nausea. These techniques can also promote relaxation, reducing stress and anxiety, which can sometimes exacerbate nausea.
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Peppermint Candy Comfort: Sucking on peppermint candy can be surprisingly helpful, especially for certain types of nausea. “One reason cancer patients experience nausea is due to how treatments affect taste receptors,” Ulreich explains. Sucking on candy or chewing gum can help mask unpleasant tastes in the mouth that can trigger nausea. Peppermint may offer an extra layer of soothing relief.
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Medication Options: If nausea is persistent or severe, it’s important to consult your doctor. Medications are available and can be highly effective in managing nausea, often providing relief in up to 97% of cases.
When Nausea Lingers
Often, nausea is a temporary discomfort that resolves on its own. However, if queasiness persists for more than a day or two, don’t hesitate to seek medical advice.
“We have various approaches to managing nausea,” Ulreich states. “Beyond medications, complementary therapies like acupuncture and aromatherapy can also be valuable in alleviating symptoms.”
It’s also crucial to remember that nausea and vomiting can sometimes be symptoms of a more serious underlying condition. If you experience severe abdominal pain, notice blood in your vomit, or if vomiting lasts for more than 24 hours, seek prompt medical attention. Depending on the severity of your symptoms, visit your doctor’s office, an urgent care clinic, or the nearest emergency room.
To find a healthcare provider at Henry Ford Health, visit henryford.com or call 1-800-HENRYFORD (436-7936).
Cynthia Ulreich is an Advanced Oncology Certified Nurse Practitioner specializing in cancer patient care at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit.
