10 Best Herbal Syrups For Motion Sickness

Herbal syrups for motion sickness are natural remedies that combine soothing herbs with sweeteners to ease nausea and dizziness during travel.

Common ingredients include ginger, peppermint, and licorice root, which are known for their anti-nausea properties and calming effects. These syrups are often preferred by those seeking alternative treatments to over-the-counter medications, offering a gentler and more palatable option. They can be easily consumed before or during travel to help prevent or alleviate symptoms.

However, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before use, especially for children, pregnant women, or individuals with existing health conditions.

1. Zingiber officinale

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

Ginger herbal syrups are a popular natural remedy that can be easily incorporated into daily routines for those prone to nausea during travel. These syrups contain concentrated extracts of fresh ginger root, which may help reduce gastrointestinal discomfort and vomiting associated with motion sickness. Studies suggest that ginger works by calming the inner ear and reducing the body's stress response to motion, making it an effective complementary therapy.

When taken in appropriate doses before and during travel, ginger syrups offer a safe and accessible option for managing motion sickness without the side effects of conventional medications.

2. Cinnamomum verum

Cinnamomum verum, commonly known as true cinnamon, has been traditionally used in herbal syrups to alleviate symptoms of motion sickness.

The essential oils found in cinnamon, particularly cinnamaldehyde, are believed to have calming and anti-nausea properties that may help ease the discomfort associated with motion sickness. When prepared as a syrup, cinnamon can be easily absorbed into the bloodstream, allowing its active compounds to take effect more quickly. Many people find that taking a small amount of cinnamon syrup before travel can reduce the likelihood of feeling sick.

However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using cinnamon syrups, especially for individuals with diabetes or those taking medications that interact with cinnamon.

3. Piper methysticum

Piper methysticum, commonly known as kava, has been traditionally used in Polynesian cultures for its calming effects, and some herbal syrups containing kava are being explored for their potential to alleviate symptoms of motion sickness.

These syrups are believed to work by reducing anxiety and nausea, which are common during motion sickness, through the sedative properties of kava's active compounds, such as kavalactones. However, it is important to note that while some anecdotal evidence suggests kava may help with nausea, scientific research on its efficacy for motion sickness is limited and inconclusive. Additionally, kava can cause side effects such as drowsiness, liver toxicity, and interactions with other medications, so its use should be approached with caution.

As a result, while kava-based syrups may offer a natural alternative for some individuals, they should not replace proven treatments like antihistamines or motion sickness patches without consulting a healthcare professional.

4. Mentha piperita

Mentha piperita, commonly known as peppermint, is widely used in herbal syrups to alleviate symptoms of motion sickness due to its calming and digestive properties.

These syrups often contain essential oils from fresh or dried peppermint leaves, which help soothe nausea and reduce the sensation of dizziness associated with motion sickness. The cooling effect of peppermint can help ease the discomfort caused by motion-induced vomiting and stomach upset. Peppermint herbal syrups are typically easy to administer, making them a convenient option for children and adults alike.

While they are generally considered safe, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before use, especially for individuals with underlying health conditions or those taking other medications.

5. Vitex agnus-castus

Vitex agnus-castus, commonly known as chaste tree berry, has been traditionally used to support hormonal balance and may offer relief for symptoms of motion sickness.

Herbal syrups containing vitex are often formulated to help ease nausea and vomiting associated with motion sickness by calming the nervous system and reducing gastrointestinal distress. While scientific evidence on its efficacy for motion sickness is limited, some studies suggest that vitex may influence neurotransmitter activity, which could contribute to its anti-nausea effects. These syrups are typically made from standardized extracts of the herb and are available in various formulations for easy consumption.

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.

6. Ginkgo biloba

Ginkgo biloba herbal syrups are traditionally used to support cognitive function and improve blood circulation, which may indirectly help alleviate symptoms of motion sickness.

These syrups contain bioactive compounds like flavonoids and terpene lactones that are believed to enhance oxygen delivery to the brain and reduce dizziness. While not a primary treatment for motion sickness, ginkgo biloba may help reduce nausea and vertigo by improving overall vascular health. Some studies suggest that it could support the body's ability to adapt to motion, though more research is needed to confirm its efficacy in this specific context.

As with any herbal remedy, it is important to consult a healthcare provider before use, especially for individuals with existing medical conditions or those taking other medications.

7. Rosmarinus officinalis

Rosmarinus officinalis, commonly known as rosemary, has been traditionally used for its calming and digestive properties, making it a popular ingredient in herbal syrups for motion sickness.

These syrups often combine rosemary extract with other soothing herbs like ginger and peppermint to help alleviate nausea and dizziness associated with motion sickness. The essential oils in rosemary are believed to support the nervous system and reduce the sensation of motion-induced discomfort. When taken in small doses before or during travel, these herbal syrups may offer a natural alternative to conventional motion sickness remedies.

However, it is important to consult a healthcare provider before using rosemary-based products, especially for children or individuals with existing medical conditions.

8. Nigella sativa

Nigella sativa, commonly known as black cumin, has been traditionally used in herbal medicine for its potential health benefits, including its anti-inflammatory and digestive properties.

Some herbal syrups containing nigella sativa are marketed for their ability to alleviate symptoms of motion sickness, though scientific evidence supporting this use is limited. These syrups are often prepared with a base of honey or other natural sweeteners, making them palatable and easy to consume. While some individuals may find relief from nausea by using nigella sativa syrup, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before relying on it as a treatment for motion sickness.

As with any herbal remedy, the effectiveness and safety can vary, and it should not replace prescribed medications without medical advice.

9. Cuminum cyminum

Cuminum cyminum, commonly known as cumin, has been traditionally used in herbal medicine for its potential digestive and calming properties.

While cumin itself is not typically used in herbal syrups specifically for motion sickness, some formulations may incorporate it as part of a broader blend of herbs aimed at reducing nausea. These syrups often combine cumin with other herbs like ginger, peppermint, or lemon balm to enhance their effectiveness in alleviating motion sickness symptoms. The active compounds in cumin, such as cuminaldehyde, may help soothe the digestive system and ease nausea.

However, it is important to consult a healthcare provider before using any herbal syrup, as individual responses to natural remedies can vary.

10. Ananas comosus

Ananas comosus, commonly known as the pineapple, has been traditionally used in herbal remedies for its potential to alleviate symptoms of motion sickness.

The fruit contains bromelain, an enzyme with anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce nausea and vomiting. Some studies suggest that the natural compounds in pineapple may support digestive health and ease gastrointestinal discomfort, which are common during motion sickness. Herbal syrups made from pineapple are often consumed before traveling to help prepare the body for potential motion-induced nausea.

While more research is needed, many people find relief from motion sickness symptoms through the use of pineapple-based herbal syrups as a natural alternative to conventional remedies.