10 Best Herbal Creams For Motion Sickness

Herbal creams for motion sickness are natural topical treatments designed to alleviate the symptoms of nausea and dizziness associated with motion sickness.

These creams typically contain calming herbs such as ginger, lavender, and peppermint, which are known for their soothing and anti-nausea properties. When applied to the skin, especially on the wrists or temples, these creams may help stimulate the senses and reduce the body's response to motion-induced discomfort. While they are not a cure for motion sickness, they can offer relief for mild cases and are often preferred by those seeking non-pharmaceutical alternatives.

However, it's important to consult with a healthcare provider before using any herbal remedy, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.

1. Ceylon cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum)

Cinnamomum verum, commonly known as true cinnamon, has been traditionally used in herbal remedies for its soothing and aromatic properties.

When incorporated into creams, cinnamon can help alleviate symptoms of motion sickness by stimulating the release of endorphins and reducing nausea. The essential oils from cinnamon bark have anti-inflammatory and calming effects that may support the body's natural balance during episodes of motion sickness. These herbal creams are often applied to the wrists, temples, or chest to provide a refreshing and grounding sensation.

While not a substitute for medical treatments, cinnamon-based creams can serve as a complementary natural remedy for mild cases of motion sickness.

2. Black pepper (Piper nigrum)

Piper nigrum, commonly known as black pepper, has been traditionally used in herbal remedies for its potential anti-nausea properties.

When incorporated into herbal creams, piper nigrum may help alleviate symptoms of motion sickness by stimulating circulation and reducing gastrointestinal discomfort. These creams typically contain a blend of essential oils and natural ingredients that work synergistically to ease nausea and dizziness. Applying the cream to the temples, wrists, or chest can provide a soothing effect, making it a convenient alternative to conventional motion sickness remedies.

However, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before using such creams, especially for individuals with sensitive skin or underlying health conditions.

3. Chaste tree (Vitex agnus-castus)

Vitex agnus-castus, commonly known as chasteberry, has been traditionally used in herbal medicine for its potential calming and hormonal balancing effects.

While it is more commonly taken as a supplement, some formulations combine it with other herbs to create topical creams aimed at alleviating symptoms of motion sickness. These creams are believed to work by soothing the nervous system and reducing the nausea associated with motion-induced discomfort. However, scientific evidence supporting the efficacy of vitex-based creams specifically for motion sickness is limited, and results may vary among individuals.

As with any herbal remedy, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before use, especially for those with existing medical conditions or who are pregnant.

4. Peppermint (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 concentrated form of peppermint oil, which is known for its cooling and soothing properties. When applied to the wrists or temples, the menthol in the cream can help ease nausea and reduce the sensation of dizziness associated with motion sickness. The topical application allows the active ingredients to be absorbed through the skin, providing a calming effect without the need for oral medication.

While not a cure, peppermint herbal creams can be a natural and effective complementary remedy for those experiencing motion sickness.

5. Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris)

Pinus sylvestris, commonly known as Scots pine, has been traditionally used in herbal medicine for its calming and digestive properties, which may help alleviate symptoms of motion sickness.

The essential oils derived from the needles of Pinus sylvestris are often incorporated into herbal creams due to their soothing effects on the skin and potential to ease nausea. These creams typically contain a blend of pine extract, calming herbs like lavender and chamomile, and may also include menthol for a cooling sensation that can help reduce discomfort. While scientific evidence supporting the effectiveness of Pinus sylvestris creams for motion sickness is limited, many users report a sense of relief and relaxation when using them during travel.

As with any herbal remedy, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before use, especially for individuals with allergies or existing health conditions.

6. Ginger (Zingiber officinale)

Zingiber officinale, commonly known as ginger, has been widely used for its natural properties to alleviate symptoms of motion sickness.

Ginger herbal creams containing zingiber officinale are formulated with essential oils and extracts to provide a topical remedy for nausea and dizziness. These creams work by stimulating the skin’s receptors, which may help reduce the sensation of motion sickness without the need for oral medication. They are particularly beneficial for individuals who prefer non-invasive, natural treatments.

While they may not replace conventional remedies, ginger herbal creams can offer a soothing and effective alternative for managing motion sickness symptoms.

7. Citron (Citrus aurantium)

Citrus aurantium, also known as bitter orange, has been traditionally used in herbal remedies for its potential anti-nausea properties, making it a key ingredient in some herbal creams designed to alleviate motion sickness.

These creams typically combine citrus aurantium with other soothing herbs like ginger or peppermint to enhance their effectiveness in calming the digestive system and reducing nausea. When applied topically to the wrists or temples, the essential oils from citrus aurantium may help stimulate the body's natural responses to motion-induced discomfort. While some users report relief from symptoms such as dizziness and vomiting, scientific evidence supporting the efficacy of these creams is limited.

As with any herbal remedy, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before use, especially for individuals with known allergies or medical conditions.

8. Valerian (Valeriana officinalis)

Valeriana officinalis, commonly known as valerian, is a herbal remedy that has been traditionally used to ease anxiety and promote relaxation.

When incorporated into topical creams, valerian may help alleviate symptoms of motion sickness by calming the nervous system and reducing feelings of nausea. These creams typically contain valerian root extract combined with other soothing ingredients like peppermint or lavender, which can provide a cooling and calming effect on the skin. While scientific evidence on the effectiveness of valerian-based creams for motion sickness is limited, some users report a reduction in discomfort when applying them before or during travel.

As with any herbal product, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before use, especially for individuals with sensitive skin or existing medical conditions.

9. Licorice (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 for symptoms associated with motion sickness by reducing nausea and inflammation in the digestive tract. These creams are often formulated with other calming herbs like ginger or peppermint to enhance their effectiveness. The topical application of such creams can help alleviate the discomfort of motion sickness without the side effects of oral medications.

However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before using licorice-based products, especially for prolonged periods, as they may interact with certain medications.

10. Cumin (Cuminum cyminum)

Cuminum cyminum, commonly known as cumin, is a herb that has been traditionally used for its digestive and calming properties.

While primarily known for its culinary uses, cumin has also been explored for its potential in alleviating symptoms of motion sickness. Some herbal creams infused with cumin essential oil are marketed as natural remedies to help ease nausea and dizziness associated with motion sickness. These creams are typically applied to the wrists or temples, where the scent of cumin is believed to have a soothing effect on the nervous system.

However, more scientific research is needed to fully validate the effectiveness of cumin-based creams in treating motion sickness.