10 Best Herbal Essential Oils For Motion Sickness
Herbal essential oils have gained popularity as natural remedies for alleviating motion sickness symptoms, such as nausea and dizziness.
Commonly used oils include peppermint, ginger, and lavender, each known for their calming and digestive properties. Peppermint oil, in particular, is often recommended for its ability to soothe the stomach and ease nausea, while ginger oil is valued for its long-standing use in treating digestive discomfort. When used in aromatherapy, these oils can be diffused or applied topically to provide relief during travel.
However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before using essential oils, especially for individuals with allergies or underlying health conditions.
Table of Contents
1. Cinnamomum verum
Cinnamomum verum, commonly known as true cinnamon, contains essential oils that have been traditionally used for their aromatic and therapeutic properties.
The essential oil derived from its bark is rich in compounds like cinnamaldehyde, which may help in reducing symptoms of motion sickness by influencing the central nervous system. Some studies suggest that the calming and anti-nausea effects of cinnamon oil could provide relief when used in aromatherapy or topical applications. However, it is important to note that while anecdotal evidence supports its use, more scientific research is needed to confirm its efficacy for motion sickness.
As with any essential oil, it should be used with caution and diluted properly to avoid skin irritation or allergic reactions.
2. Piper nigrum
Piper nigrum, commonly known as black pepper, contains essential oils that have been explored for their potential to alleviate symptoms of motion sickness.
The essential oils derived from black pepper, particularly containing compounds like beta-caryophyllene, may help reduce nausea and vomiting by influencing the central nervous system. While there is limited scientific research specifically on its use for motion sickness, some studies suggest that its anti-inflammatory and digestive properties could support gastrointestinal comfort. However, it is important to note that more clinical trials are needed to confirm its efficacy for this purpose.
As with any herbal remedy, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before using piper nigrum essential oils, especially for individuals with existing health conditions or those taking medications.
3. Rosmarinus officinalis
Rosmarinus officinalis, commonly known as rosemary, is a herb whose essential oil has been traditionally used for its aromatic and therapeutic properties.
The essential oil of rosemary contains compounds such as 1,8-cineole and camphor, which are believed to have a calming effect on the nervous system. Some studies suggest that inhaling rosemary essential oil may help alleviate symptoms of motion sickness by reducing nausea and improving mental clarity. It is often used in aromatherapy through diffusers or by applying a diluted form to the wrists or temples.
While more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness, many people find rosemary essential oil to be a natural and pleasant alternative for managing motion sickness.
4. Mentha piperita
Mentha piperita, commonly known as peppermint, is a popular herb used in the production of essential oils that are often employed to alleviate symptoms of motion sickness.
The essential oil of peppermint contains potent compounds such as menthol, which can help soothe the digestive system and reduce nausea. When used in aromatherapy, the refreshing scent of peppermint oil can help calm the senses and ease the discomfort associated with motion sickness. It is typically applied in a diffuser or as a diluted topical application on the wrists or temples for best results.
While peppermint essential oil is generally considered safe for most people, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before use, especially for those with sensitive skin or existing medical conditions.
5. Citrus sinensis
Citrus sinensis, commonly known as sweet orange, is a citrus fruit whose essential oil has been explored for its potential benefits in alleviating motion sickness.
The oil contains compounds like limonene and linalool, which are believed to have calming and anti-emetic properties that may help reduce nausea and vomiting. Studies suggest that the aromatic properties of sweet orange essential oil can help soothe the nervous system and ease the symptoms of motion sickness when used in aromatherapy. It is often used in diffusers or applied topically with a carrier oil to provide relief during travel.
While more research is needed, many people find citrus sinensis essential oil to be a natural and effective remedy for motion sickness.
6. Vitex agnus-castus
Vitex agnus-castus, commonly known as chasteberry, has been traditionally used to support hormonal balance and may offer potential benefits for alleviating symptoms of motion sickness.
While not a direct treatment for motion sickness, its calming properties and ability to reduce anxiety may help ease the nausea and discomfort often associated with motion-related distress. Essential oils derived from Vitex agnus-castus can be used in diffusers or diluted for topical application, offering a natural alternative for those seeking holistic relief. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using these oils, especially for individuals with pre-existing medical conditions or those taking medications.
Research on the specific efficacy of Vitex agnus-castus essential oils for motion sickness is limited, so it should be used as a complementary, not a primary, treatment method.
7. Zingiber officinale
Zingiber officinale, commonly known as ginger, has been traditionally used to alleviate symptoms of motion sickness due to its calming and anti-emetic properties.
The essential oils derived from ginger contain bioactive compounds such as gingerol and shogaol, which may help reduce nausea and vomiting by influencing the central nervous system and gastrointestinal tract. Studies suggest that inhaling ginger essential oil can stimulate the release of serotonin and other neurotransmitters that regulate balance and motion perception. When used in aromatherapy, ginger essential oil is often applied through diffusion or diluted topical application to provide relief during travel.
However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using essential oils, especially for individuals with sensitive skin or underlying health conditions.
8. Foeniculum vulgare
Foeniculum vulgare, commonly known as fennel, is a herb whose essential oil has been traditionally used to alleviate symptoms of motion sickness.
The oil contains compounds such as anethole, which possess calming and antiemetic properties that may help reduce nausea and vomiting. When used in aromatherapy, fennel essential oil can be inhaled through diffusers or applied topically to the wrists or behind the ears to provide relief. Studies suggest that its ability to soothe the digestive system and ease anxiety may contribute to its effectiveness in managing motion sickness.
However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before using fennel essential oil, especially for individuals with allergies or medical conditions.
9. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Glycyrrhiza glabra, commonly known as licorice, contains compounds that may help alleviate symptoms of motion sickness when used in its essential oil form.
The essential oil derived from the root of this plant is believed to have antispasmodic and calming properties that can soothe the digestive system and reduce nausea. When inhaled or applied topically, licorice essential oil may help regulate the body's response to motion-induced discomfort. However, due to its potential to increase blood pressure, it should be used with caution, especially in individuals with hypertension.
While some studies suggest its efficacy, more research is needed to fully understand its role in treating motion sickness.
10. Cymbopogon citratus
Cymbopogon citratus, commonly known as lemon grass, is a popular herb whose essential oil has been explored for its potential benefits in alleviating motion sickness.
The oil contains compounds such as citral and myrcene, which are believed to have calming and anti-emetic properties that may help reduce nausea and vomiting. Studies suggest that inhaling the aroma of lemon grass essential oil can help soothe the nervous system and ease the symptoms of motion sickness. It is often used in aromatherapy practices to provide natural relief during travel.
However, while anecdotal evidence supports its use, further scientific research is needed to fully validate its effectiveness for motion sickness.