Ah, seasickness—the not-so-glamorous side of a fabulous day on the water. One minute, you’re living your best “Captain of the Sea” life, and the next, you’re clutching the railing like it’s your long-lost friend. If you’ve ever felt like your stomach is doing the Macarena while the rest of you are trying to enjoy the view, you’re not alone! But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Below are 10 natural, drug-free ways to skip the nausea and keep your lunch where it belongs. My favorite is #3, and I’m including a link to the wristband I use every time I’m on a boat—trust me, it’s a game-changer!
FAQ: How can I prevent seasickness naturally?
Answer: From ginger and green apples to fancy wristbands and acupressure, there are plenty of ways to naturally prevent seasickness without popping a pill! Keep reading for some tried-and-true remedies.
1. Ginger
Ginger has been used for centuries to combat nausea. It stimulates the digestive system and balances stomach acids. Its anti-inflammatory properties help soothe an upset stomach. Try it in tea, capsules, or raw form.
Family Favorite: Slice fresh ginger, coat with honey, and bake into crispy ginger chips for a tasty, on-the-go remedy.
If making your own doesn’t sound fun, try Traditional Medicinals Organic Lemon Ginger Lozenges, which are great for nausea and morning sickness.
2. Peppermint
Peppermint contains menthol, which relaxes the stomach muscles and helps to relieve nausea. To calm your digestive system, you can sip peppermint tea or inhale peppermint essential oil.
3. Acupressure/TENS
Acupressure wristbands, like Sea-Bands, target pressure points (particularly on the wrist) to relieve nausea by regulating your body’s energy flow. For a high-tech upgrade, my personal favorite is the EmeTerm Explore Anti-Nausea Wristband, which uses TENS technology (electrical stimulation) to block nausea signals to the brain. I use it every time I’m on a boat!
- Safety Approved for motion sickness and pregnancy-related nausea.
- 85% success rate in easing nausea, with no side effects.
- Waterproof and rechargeable, offering multiple levels of intensity for comfort.
4. Lemon
The sharp, fresh scent of lemon helps calm nausea by stimulating your digestive system and reducing stomach acids. Inhale lemon essential oil, sip lemon water, or suck on a lemon wedge for relief.
5. Chamomile Tea
Chamomile has soothing properties that help relax the muscles in your stomach, making it easier to digest and preventing nausea. Plus, it’s great for reducing stress, which can often make seasickness worse.
6. Fresh Air
Simply getting fresh air can do wonders. Fresh air improves breathing and provides a distraction from nausea-inducing motion. Try moving to an open area of the boat or sitting near a window.
7. Crackers or Plain Snacks
Bland, easy-to-digest foods like crackers absorb excess stomach acid and help prevent nausea. Eating small, frequent snacks throughout your trip is key to keeping your stomach settled.
8. Hydration
Dehydration can worsen nausea, so drinking small amounts of water or electrolyte drinks can help keep your body balanced. Take slow, steady sips to avoid overwhelming your stomach.
9. Fennel Seeds
Fennel seeds are known for their ability to calm the digestive tract. Chewing on them or drinking fennel tea helps reduce bloating and nausea by easing digestion.
10. Lavender Essential Oil
Lavender has calming properties that reduce anxiety and stress, which are often tied to nausea. Inhaling or diffusing lavender essential oil can create a relaxing environment and help combat seasickness.
Bonus Tip:
Besides these fantastic remedies, a few extra tricks help you dodge seasickness before it even starts. First, skip the heavy meals before you set sail—trust me, no one wants to deal with a belly full of greasy food when the waves start rolling! Stay hydrated, too, because dehydration can make nausea worse. And when you’re on the boat, find a comfy spot to keep your eyes on the horizon (mid-ship is usually the most stable). Little changes like these can make a big difference in keeping seasickness at bay!
When to Seek Medical Attention:
While most seasickness is mild and can be handled with natural remedies, there are times when you should seek medical advice. If your nausea or vomiting is severe, persistent, or accompanied by symptoms like dizziness, confusion, chest pain, or difficulty breathing, it’s time to consult a doctor. Extreme motion sickness can sometimes lead to dehydration or more serious health issues, so don’t hesitate to reach out for help if your symptoms worsen or last longer than expected. And of course, if you have pre-existing conditions or are unsure about the severity of your symptoms, it’s always wise to seek professional advice for peace of mind.