10 Best Herbal Lotions For Motion Sickness

Herbal lotions for motion sickness are topical remedies that incorporate natural ingredients believed to alleviate symptoms such as nausea and dizziness.

These lotions often contain calming herbs like ginger, peppermint, and lavender, which are known for their soothing and digestive properties. While they are not a substitute for conventional treatments, they may offer a gentle, non-invasive option for those seeking alternative relief. Application is typically done on the wrists, temples, or neck, where the skin is thin and absorption is more efficient.

However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using any herbal product, 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 calming and soothing properties.

When incorporated into herbal lotions, cinnamon can help alleviate symptoms of motion sickness by promoting relaxation and reducing nausea. These lotions are typically applied topically to the wrists, temples, or neck, where the aromatic compounds can be absorbed through the skin. The essential oils from cinnamon may help regulate the body's response to motion by influencing the central nervous system.

While not a cure, cinnamon-based lotions offer a natural and alternative approach to managing motion sickness symptoms.

2. Chaste tree (Vitex agnus-castus)

Vitex agnus-castus, also known as chasteberry, is a traditional herbal remedy that has been used for centuries to support hormonal balance and alleviate symptoms of motion sickness.

When formulated into a herbal lotion, vitex agnus-castus may help soothe nausea and reduce the discomfort associated with motion sickness by calming the nervous system. The soothing properties of the herb are often combined with other calming essential oils in these lotions to enhance their effectiveness. While research on its specific efficacy for motion sickness is limited, many users report relief from symptoms when applying the lotion to the wrists or temples.

As with any herbal remedy, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before use, especially for those with underlying health conditions or taking other medications.

3. Black pepper (Piper nigrum)

Piper nigrum, commonly known as black pepper, is often used in herbal lotions for its stimulating and warming properties.

These lotions are typically applied to the wrists or temples to help alleviate symptoms of motion sickness by improving circulation and reducing nausea. The active compound, piperine, may enhance the absorption of other herbs, making the lotion more effective. While not a substitute for conventional remedies, some people find relief from the soothing aroma and topical effects of black pepper herbal lotions.

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

4. Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba)

Ginkgo biloba herbal lotions are formulated with extracts from the ginkgo tree, known for their potential cognitive and circulatory benefits.

These lotions are sometimes used as a natural remedy to help alleviate symptoms of motion sickness, such as nausea and dizziness, by improving blood flow and reducing stress on the inner ear. While scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness for motion sickness is limited, some users report a soothing effect when applying these lotions to the wrists or temples. Ginkgo biloba is generally considered safe for topical use, though it may cause mild skin irritation in some 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 taking other medications.

5. Citron (Citrus aurantium)

Citrus aurantium, also known as bitter orange, has been traditionally used in herbal remedies for its potential to alleviate symptoms of motion sickness.

The essential oils derived from the fruit, particularly those containing limonene and other volatile compounds, are believed to have calming and anti-nausea properties. When incorporated into herbal lotions, these extracts may help soothe the digestive system and reduce the feeling of queasiness associated with motion sickness. These lotions are often applied topically to the wrists or temples, where they can be absorbed through the skin for a localized effect.

While more research is needed to confirm their efficacy, many users report a sense of relief and reduced nausea when using citrus aurantium-based lotions during travel.

6. 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 formulated into a herbal lotion, glycyrrhiza glabra may help alleviate the discomfort associated with motion sickness by calming the digestive system and reducing nausea. The soothing compounds in licorice root, such as glycyrrhizin and flavonoids, may support the body's natural balance and ease symptoms like dizziness and vomiting. Applying the lotion topically to the wrists or temples can provide a calming effect, making it a natural alternative for those seeking non-pharmacological relief.

While more research is needed, some individuals find relief from motion sickness symptoms through the use of licorice-based herbal lotions as part of a holistic wellness approach.

7. Ginger (Zingiber officinale)

Zingiber officinale, commonly known as ginger, has been traditionally used to alleviate symptoms of motion sickness due to its anti-emetic properties.

Ginger herbal lotions infused with fresh or powdered ginger root can provide a soothing and cooling sensation on the skin, which may help ease nausea and vomiting associated with motion sickness. These lotions are often applied to the wrists, temples, or neck, where the scent of ginger can be inhaled for a calming effect. While they are not a substitute for oral ginger remedies, they offer a convenient and natural alternative for those who prefer topical treatments.

However, individuals with sensitive skin should perform a patch test before using ginger herbal lotions to avoid irritation.

8. Turmeric (Curcuma longa)

Curcuma longa, commonly known as turmeric, is a medicinal plant whose active compound, curcumin, has been traditionally used for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

While primarily known for its culinary and medicinal uses, recent research suggests that curcumin may also help alleviate symptoms of motion sickness by reducing nausea and inflammation in the digestive system. Some herbal lotions infused with turmeric extract are being explored as natural remedies to ease motion sickness by promoting digestive comfort and reducing inner ear disturbances. These lotions are often applied topically to the skin, where they may help soothe the body’s response to motion-induced discomfort.

However, more scientific studies are needed to fully understand their efficacy and safety for treating motion sickness.

9. Kava (Piper methysticum)

Piper methysticum, commonly known as kava, is traditionally used in Polynesian cultures for its calming and sedative effects.

While kava is often consumed as a beverage, some herbal formulations incorporate it into lotions for topical application. These kava-based lotions are sometimes used to alleviate symptoms of motion sickness by promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety, which can exacerbate nausea. However, it is important to note that the efficacy of kava lotions for motion sickness has not been extensively studied in clinical trials.

As with any herbal remedy, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before using kava-based products, especially for individuals with existing health conditions or those taking other medications.

10. English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)

Lavandula angustifolia, commonly known as English lavender, is often used in herbal lotions for its calming and soothing properties.

These lotions are typically infused with essential oils extracted from dried lavender flowers, which are known for their ability to ease nausea and reduce anxiety. When applied to the wrists or temples, lavender-based lotions may help alleviate the symptoms of motion sickness by promoting relaxation and reducing sensory overload. The gentle, aromatic nature of lavender makes it a popular choice for natural remedies, especially for those seeking non-pharmacological solutions.

While scientific evidence supporting its efficacy for motion sickness is limited, many users report a sense of comfort and relief when using lavender herbal lotions during travel.