10 Best Herbal Creams For Motion Sickness
Herbal creams for motion sickness are topical treatments that aim to alleviate the symptoms of nausea and dizziness associated with motion-related discomfort.
These creams often contain natural ingredients such as ginger, peppermint, and lavender, which are known for their soothing and calming properties. While they are not a cure for motion sickness, they may help ease symptoms by stimulating blood flow and reducing stomach discomfort. Many people find them useful as a complementary remedy, especially when used in conjunction with other strategies like avoiding heavy meals before traveling.
However, it's important to consult a healthcare professional before using any herbal product, especially for those with allergies or underlying health conditions.
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Table of Contents
1. Cinnamomum verum
Cinnamomum verum, also known as true cinnamon, has been traditionally used in herbal remedies for its soothing and calming properties.
When incorporated into herbal creams, it may help alleviate symptoms of motion sickness by reducing nausea and promoting a sense of well-being. These creams typically combine cinnamon with other natural ingredients like ginger or peppermint to enhance their effectiveness. The warming sensation from cinnamon can help stimulate digestion and ease stomach discomfort.
While more research is needed, some users report that applying these creams to the wrists or temples provides relief from motion sickness symptoms.
2. Piper nigrum
Piper nigrum, commonly known as black pepper, is often used in herbal remedies for its potential to alleviate symptoms of motion sickness.
The active compound in black pepper, piperine, is believed to enhance the absorption of other herbs and may help reduce nausea by stimulating digestive enzymes. Some herbal creams containing piper nigrum are formulated to be applied topically on the wrists or temples, where they are thought to provide a calming effect on the nervous system. While scientific evidence supporting the efficacy of these creams is limited, many users report a reduction in motion sickness symptoms when using them.
As with any herbal remedy, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before use, especially for individuals with sensitive skin or underlying health conditions.
3. Vitex agnus-castus
Vitex agnus-castus, commonly known as chasteberry, is often used in herbal creams to help alleviate symptoms of motion sickness.
These creams typically combine the plant's extract with other calming ingredients like lavender or ginger to enhance their soothing effects. The mechanism of action is believed to involve regulating hormonal imbalances that may contribute to nausea and dizziness during travel. While some users report relief from using these creams, scientific evidence supporting their efficacy for motion sickness is limited.
As with any herbal remedy, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before use, especially for individuals with pre-existing medical conditions or those taking other medications.
4. Zingiber officinale
Zingiber officinale, commonly known as ginger, has been traditionally used to alleviate symptoms of motion sickness due to its anti-emetic properties.
Herbal creams containing zingiber officinale are formulated to provide topical relief by stimulating circulation and soothing the skin, which may help reduce nausea associated with motion sickness. These creams are often infused with other calming essential oils such as peppermint or lavender to enhance their effectiveness. While they are not a substitute for oral ginger supplements, they offer a convenient and natural alternative for those seeking relief without ingesting medication.
However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before using these products, especially for individuals with sensitive skin or existing medical conditions.
5. Ginkgo biloba
Ginkgo biloba herbal creams are topical formulations that incorporate extracts from the ginkgo tree, known for their potential to enhance blood circulation and cognitive function.
These creams are sometimes used as a complementary remedy for motion sickness, aiming to alleviate symptoms such as dizziness and nausea by improving overall blood flow and reducing stress on the inner ear. While there is limited scientific evidence directly linking ginkgo biloba to the relief of motion sickness, some users report a calming effect that may help ease discomfort during travel. It is important to note that these creams are not a substitute for conventional treatments like motion sickness medications, and their effectiveness can vary among individuals.
As with any herbal product, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before use, especially for those with existing medical conditions or taking other medications.
6. Piper methysticum
Piper methysticum, commonly known as kava, is a traditional Pacific Island plant that has been used for centuries for its calming effects.
While primarily consumed as a beverage, some herbal creams infused with kava extract have been developed to address symptoms of motion sickness. These creams are believed to work by reducing anxiety and nausea through the calming properties of kava's active compounds, such as kavalactones. However, it is important to note that the effectiveness of kava-based creams for motion sickness has not been extensively studied in clinical trials.
As with any herbal remedy, individuals should consult a healthcare professional before use, especially if they have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.
7. Citrus aurantium
Citrus aurantium, also known as bitter orange, has been traditionally used in herbal remedies to alleviate symptoms of motion sickness.
The active compounds in citrus aurantium, such as flavonoids and alkaloids, are believed to help regulate nausea and vomiting by influencing the central nervous system. Some herbal creams infused with citrus aurantium extract are marketed as natural alternatives to conventional motion sickness medications. These creams are typically applied topically to the wrists or temples, where they are thought to provide a calming effect.
However, while anecdotal evidence supports their use, more scientific research is needed to fully understand their efficacy and safety for motion sickness relief.
8. Mentha piperita
Mentha piperita, commonly known as peppermint, is often used in herbal creams to help alleviate symptoms of motion sickness.
These creams typically contain a high concentration of menthol, which has a cooling and soothing effect on the skin. When applied to the temples, forehead, or neck, the menthol can help reduce nausea and dizziness associated with motion sickness. The natural properties of peppermint are believed to stimulate the senses and provide a refreshing relief that can ease discomfort.
While not a cure, peppermint herbal creams may offer a natural and accessible option for managing motion sickness symptoms.
9. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Glycyrrhiza glabra, commonly known as licorice root, has been traditionally used in herbal medicine for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.
When incorporated into herbal creams, glycyrrhiza glabra may provide relief from the discomfort associated with motion sickness by calming the digestive system and reducing nausea. These creams are often formulated with other calming herbs such as ginger or peppermint to enhance their effectiveness. However, it is important to note that while some individuals may find relief from these natural remedies, they should not replace prescribed medications for severe motion sickness.
Always consult a healthcare professional before using herbal creams, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.
10. Valeriana officinalis
Valeriana officinalis, commonly known as valerian, is a herb traditionally used for its calming effects on the nervous system.
While primarily known for its use in treating anxiety and sleep disorders, valerian has also been explored for its potential role in alleviating symptoms of motion sickness. Some herbal creams containing valerian root extract are marketed as natural remedies to help reduce nausea and dizziness associated with motion sickness by promoting relaxation and reducing stress. These creams are often applied topically to the temples, wrists, or neck, where they are believed to exert a soothing effect on the body.
However, while anecdotal evidence supports their use, more scientific research is needed to fully understand their efficacy and safety in treating motion sickness.