10 Best Herbal Syrups For Motion Sickness

Herbal syrups for motion sickness are natural remedies that combine traditional botanical ingredients with soothing flavors to help alleviate nausea and dizziness during travel.

Commonly used herbs such as ginger, peppermint, and licorice root are known for their calming and anti-nausea properties, making them effective in reducing motion-induced discomfort. These syrups are often preferred by individuals seeking non-pharmaceutical alternatives to conventional motion sickness medications. They are typically easy to administer, especially for children or elderly individuals, and can be taken in small doses before or during travel.

While they may not work for everyone, many users find herbal syrups to be a gentle and effective way to manage motion sickness symptoms.

1. 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 syrups are a natural and effective alternative to conventional medications, offering a soothing and easily digestible form of ginger for those experiencing nausea. These syrups work by calming the digestive system and reducing the sensation of queasiness, making them particularly suitable for children and adults alike. They are often flavored with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup to enhance palatability without the use of artificial additives.

Regular consumption of ginger herbal syrup before or during travel can help prevent motion sickness and provide relief from its symptoms.

2. Ceylon cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum)

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

The essential oils in cinnamon, particularly cinnamaldehyde, are believed to have calming and anti-nausea properties that may help reduce the discomfort associated with motion sickness. When prepared as a syrup, cinnamon can be easily consumed and absorbed by the body, offering a natural alternative to conventional remedies. Some studies suggest that the aromatic compounds in cinnamon may help regulate the inner ear's balance system, which plays a key role in motion sickness.

While more research is needed, many people find relief from motion sickness symptoms by using cinnamon-based herbal syrups as a complementary therapy.

3. Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra)

Glycyrrhiza glabra, commonly known as licorice root, has been traditionally used in herbal medicine for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.

Herbal syrups made from licorice root are often employed to alleviate symptoms of motion sickness, such as nausea and dizziness, due to their potential calming effects on the digestive system. These syrups may help reduce the sensitivity of the inner ear, which is a common cause of motion sickness, by supporting the body's natural balance. The active compounds in licorice, such as glycyrrhizin and flavonoids, are believed to contribute to its efficacy in easing gastrointestinal discomfort.

While licorice syrup is generally considered safe in moderate amounts, it should be used with caution, especially in individuals with hypertension or kidney conditions, as excessive consumption can lead to side effects.

4. Cumin (Cuminum cyminum)

Cuminum cyminum, commonly known as cumin, has been traditionally used in herbal remedies to alleviate symptoms of motion sickness.

While cumin itself is not typically used as a standalone herbal syrup for motion sickness, its essential oils and compounds may contribute to digestive comfort and nausea relief. Some herbal syrups incorporate cumin alongside other herbs like ginger or peppermint to create formulations that support the digestive system and reduce feelings of queasiness. These syrups are often favored for their natural ingredients and mild flavor, making them suitable for children and adults alike.

However, it is important to consult a healthcare provider before using any herbal remedy, especially for prolonged or severe motion sickness symptoms.

5. Black pepper (Piper nigrum)

Piper nigrum, commonly known as black pepper, has been traditionally used in herbal medicine for its potential to alleviate symptoms of motion sickness.

While not a primary treatment, some herbal syrups containing black pepper extract may help reduce nausea by stimulating digestion and improving blood circulation. These syrups are often combined with other herbs like ginger or peppermint to enhance their effectiveness. However, it is important to consult a healthcare provider before using any herbal remedy, especially for children or individuals with existing health conditions.

Despite its historical use, scientific evidence supporting the efficacy of piper nigrum syrups for motion sickness remains limited.

6. Chaste tree (Vitex agnus-castus)

Vitex agnus-castus, commonly known as chasteberry, has been traditionally used in herbal medicine for its potential calming and regulatory effects on the nervous system.

When formulated into a herbal syrup, vitex agnus-castus may help alleviate symptoms of motion sickness by reducing nausea and promoting a sense of balance. Although scientific evidence supporting its efficacy for motion sickness is limited, some studies suggest it may influence hormonal and neurological pathways that contribute to motion-induced discomfort. This herbal syrup is often recommended as a natural alternative for individuals seeking non-pharmaceutical remedies.

However, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before use, especially for those with existing medical conditions or taking other medications.

7. Peppermint (Mentha piperita)

Mentha piperita, commonly known as peppermint, has been widely used in herbal syrups to alleviate symptoms of motion sickness.

These syrups harness the cooling and soothing properties of peppermint oil, which can help ease nausea and calm the digestive system. The aromatic compounds in peppermint work by stimulating the release of digestive enzymes and reducing the sensation of queasiness. When consumed in small amounts, peppermint syrup can provide quick relief for those experiencing motion sickness during travel.

However, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before using peppermint syrup, especially for individuals with certain medical conditions or those taking other medications.

8. Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea)

Echinacea purpurea, commonly known as purple coneflower, is traditionally used in herbal medicine for its immune-boosting properties, but recent studies suggest it may also have potential in alleviating symptoms of motion sickness.

While not a primary treatment for motion sickness, some herbal syrups containing echinacea purpurea are marketed as natural remedies to help reduce nausea and dizziness during travel. These syrups are often combined with other herbs like ginger or peppermint to enhance their efficacy. However, scientific evidence supporting the use of echinacea purpurea specifically for motion sickness remains limited, and more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness.

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

9. Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris)

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

Herbal syrups made from Pinus sylvestris often contain extracts of the tree's needles and bark, which are rich in antioxidants and essential oils that can support digestive health and reduce nausea. These syrups are typically prepared by infusing the dried plant material in alcohol or glycerin, creating a concentrated form that can be taken in small doses. While not a substitute for conventional motion sickness remedies, Pinus sylvestris syrups may offer a natural alternative for those seeking gentle relief from travel-related nausea.

However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using any herbal remedy, especially for prolonged or severe cases of motion sickness.

10. Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare)

Foeniculum vulgare, commonly known as fennel, has been traditionally used to alleviate symptoms of motion sickness due to its calming and digestive properties.

Herbal syrups made from fennel seeds are often prepared by infusing the dried seeds in alcohol or glycerin, creating a concentrated form that can be taken orally. These syrups are believed to help reduce nausea and vomiting by soothing the stomach and easing the effects of motion-induced discomfort. The essential oils in fennel, such as anethole, are thought to have a calming effect on the central nervous system, which may help in managing the symptoms of motion sickness.

While fennel syrups are generally considered safe for adults, they should be used with caution in children and individuals with known allergies or medical conditions.