10 Best Herbal Teas For Motion Sickness

Herbal teas can be a natural and effective remedy for motion sickness, offering a gentle alternative to over-the-counter medications.

Certain herbs, such as ginger, peppermint, and lemon balm, are commonly used in herbal teas to help alleviate nausea and soothe the digestive system. Ginger tea, in particular, has been widely recognized for its ability to reduce motion sickness symptoms by calming the stomach and reducing inflammation. Peppermint tea can also help ease nausea by relaxing the muscles in the digestive tract, while lemon balm provides a calming effect that may ease anxiety associated with motion sickness.

When consumed regularly before and during travel, these herbal teas can offer relief and comfort for those prone to motion sickness.

1. Ceylon cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum)

Cinnamomum verum, commonly known as true cinnamon, has been traditionally used in herbal teas 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 soothe the digestive system. When brewed into a warm tea, cinnamon can help ease nausea and dizziness associated with motion sickness by promoting relaxation and reducing gastrointestinal discomfort. Many people find that sipping on a cup of cinnamon tea before or during travel can provide a natural remedy for motion sickness.

However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using cinnamon tea, especially for those with existing health conditions or who are pregnant.

2. Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba)

Ginkgo biloba herbal tea is often used to help alleviate symptoms of motion sickness due to its potential to improve blood circulation and enhance cognitive function.

This herbal remedy is believed to support the nervous system, which may help reduce the dizziness and nausea commonly associated with motion sickness. While scientific evidence on its effectiveness for motion sickness is limited, many people report feeling more comfortable after consuming ginkgo biloba tea during travel. It is typically prepared by steeping the dried leaves in hot water, and can be consumed before or during travel for best results.

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.

3. Kava (Piper methysticum)

Piper methysticum, commonly known as kava, has been traditionally used in the Pacific Islands for its calming effects and is sometimes explored for its potential to alleviate motion sickness.

While scientific evidence on its effectiveness for motion sickness is limited, some studies suggest that kava may help reduce nausea and anxiety, which are common symptoms during motion sickness. Herbal teas made from kava roots are typically consumed before travel to help ease the body's response to motion. However, it is important to note that kava can have side effects, including drowsiness and liver toxicity, and should be used with caution.

As with any herbal remedy, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before using kava for motion sickness.

4. Valerian (Valeriana officinalis)

Valeriana officinalis, commonly known as valerian, is a traditional herbal remedy that has been used for centuries to address various health concerns, including anxiety and sleep disorders.

While it is not specifically marketed for motion sickness, some studies suggest that its calming properties may help reduce the symptoms of nausea and dizziness associated with motion sickness. Valerian root contains compounds like valerenic acid, which may interact with the central nervous system to promote relaxation and ease stress, potentially alleviating the body's overreaction to motion. However, it is important to note that scientific evidence supporting its efficacy for motion sickness is limited, and more research is needed to confirm its benefits in this context.

As with any herbal remedy, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before using valerian for motion sickness, especially if you are taking other medications or have underlying health conditions.

5. English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)

Lavandula angustifolia, commonly known as English lavender, is often used in herbal teas to help alleviate symptoms of motion sickness.

Its calming properties are believed to reduce nausea and anxiety, which are common during travel. The essential oils in lavender, such as linalool and lavandin, may interact with the central nervous system to ease discomfort. To prepare the tea, steep dried lavender flowers in hot water for several minutes before consumption.

While not a cure-all, lavender tea can be a soothing and natural remedy to support comfort during motion sickness.

6. Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare)

Foeniculum vulgare, commonly known as fennel, is often used in herbal teas to help alleviate symptoms of motion sickness.

The essential oils in fennel, particularly anethole, are believed to have calming and antispasmodic properties that may reduce nausea and vomiting. When brewed into a tea, fennel can soothe the digestive system and ease the discomfort associated with motion sickness. It is typically consumed in small doses before traveling or during motion to prevent symptoms from developing.

However, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before using fennel tea, especially for pregnant women or individuals with existing medical conditions.

7. Stinging nettle (Urtica dioica)

Urtica dioica, commonly known as stinging nettle, has been traditionally used in herbal teas to help alleviate symptoms of motion sickness.

The plant contains compounds such as flavonoids and antioxidants that may support the body's ability to manage nausea and balance inner ear function. When brewed into a tea, stinging nettle is believed to soothe the digestive system and reduce the feeling of queasiness associated with motion sickness. However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before using it, especially for pregnant women or those with existing medical conditions.

While some studies suggest potential benefits, more research is needed to fully understand its effectiveness for motion sickness.

8. Catnip (Nepeta cataria)

Nepeta cataria, commonly known as catnip, has been traditionally used in herbal teas to help alleviate symptoms of motion sickness.

The plant contains compounds like nepetalactone, which may have calming and anti-nausea properties that support digestive health. When brewed into a mild tea, it can soothe the stomach and reduce the feeling of queasiness associated with motion sickness. Many people find that drinking catnip tea before or during travel can provide natural relief without the side effects of conventional medications.

However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using catnip, especially for those with existing health conditions or who are pregnant.

9. Dog rose (Rosa canina)

Rosa canina, commonly known as rosehip, is a herbal remedy that has been traditionally used to alleviate symptoms of motion sickness.

The tea is made from the dried berries of the Rosa canina plant, which are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and essential oils. It is believed that the compounds in rosehip tea may help reduce nausea and vomiting by supporting the body’s natural balance and calming the digestive system. Many people find that drinking a cup of rosehip tea before traveling can help ease the discomfort of motion sickness.

While it is generally considered safe, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider before using it, especially for those with existing health conditions or taking other medications.

10. Black pepper (Piper nigrum)

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

The active compound in black pepper, piperine, is believed to enhance the absorption of other compounds and may help regulate nausea by stimulating digestive enzymes. While there is limited scientific research specifically on black pepper tea for motion sickness, some anecdotal evidence suggests it may help settle the stomach and reduce discomfort during travel. To prepare the tea, simply steep a pinch of black pepper in hot water for several minutes.

However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using it, especially for those with sensitive stomachs or existing medical conditions.