Motion Sickness
Motion sickness occurs as a result of recurrent movement, accelerating and decelerating in angular and linear forms of travel. People can get travel sickness in cars, air planes, trains, on boats and even at the cinema. Some people may feel ill even when in an elevator, or more likely on a roller coaster, in virtual reality simulators, surfing or even watching movies. Certain situations may worsen motion sickness like anxiety, an empty stomach, a long-term medical condition, a short-term illness, some medications, the menstrual cycle, and pregnancy.
Symptoms
Symptoms may include nausea and vomiting, headache, dizziness, general discomfort and fatigue. You may also notice excess salivation, yawning, a pale complexion, sleepiness or a cold sweat. Once nausea sets in, it may be difficult for a person suffering from motion sickness to focus and they may feel weak. Rapid breathing, depression or apathy, a buzzing sensation, panic and sensations of body warmth may also be felt.
Causes
Motion sickness is caused by a disturbance in the inner ear. It can be aggravated by anxiety, hunger and unpleasant odors. Keeping your surroundings well-ventilated and staying calm can help. Keeping your vision fixed on the horizon when on a boat can also help reduce symptoms.
Cautions
If you are so dizzy it interferes with sitting up or walking, or if your nausea and vomiting is severe, or if you have a ringing or fullness in the ear or a change in your hearing, or you have ear pain, discharge or bleeding, seek medical attention.
Herbal Treatments
Internal Applications
- Ginger this herb is useful in both preventing and treating mild or moderate travel sickness. The usual dose is 500 mg of ginger one hour before travelling and then 500 mg every two to four hours as needed. Ginger tea can also be taken to prevent motion sickness. You can also take supplements, eat it raw, suck on ginger candy, and use ginger tincture. Ginger ale is also helpful. Make your own with 1 teaspoon of fresh ginger root, 1 teaspoon red raspberry leaf, 3 cups of water, 1 cup of carbonated water and a dash of lemon juice. Peel and slice or grate the ginger. Place it in a pan with the raspberry leaf and add the plain water. Boil, then lower the heat and simmer for 10 to 20 minutes. Turn off the heat and let it steep for 10 to 15 minutes. Strain out the herbs. Stir in the carbonated water and lemon juice. Sip the ginger ale half an hour before travelling. Keep some with you to sip if symptoms occur.
- Peppermint adding a little peppermint to water can help nausea. Sip when needed. Peppermint tea is another way to take this useful herb.
- Basil take a cup of basil tea when nausea strikes. Eating pesto also works.
- Catnip this relaxing herb soothes upset stomach and aids travel sickness. Take as a tea when needed.
- Fennel - thought to relieve travel sickness - chew the seeds or take as an infusion.
External Applications
- Lemon add 40 drops of lemon essential oil to four ounces of distilled water in a spray bottle. Add10 drops of cedar wood essential oil, 20 drops of dill essential oil, 10 drops of spearmint essential oil and 70 drops of lavender oil. Spray as needed to get a refreshing whiff.