10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Motion Sickness

Herbal tinctures for motion sickness are concentrated liquid extracts made from plants known for their calming and nausea-reducing properties, such as ginger, chamomile, and peppermint.

These tinctures are often used as natural alternatives to over-the-counter medications, offering a gentler approach to managing motion sickness symptoms. They work by soothing the digestive system and reducing the sensation of dizziness and nausea that accompanies motion-induced discomfort. To use them effectively, it is recommended to take a few drops under the tongue or mix them with a small amount of water before traveling.

While generally safe, individuals should consult a healthcare provider before use, especially if they are pregnant, nursing, or taking other medications.

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1. Cinnamomum verum

Cinnamomum verum, also known as true cinnamon, has been traditionally used in herbal medicine for its soothing and digestive properties.

When prepared as a tincture, it can be an effective natural remedy for alleviating symptoms of motion sickness, such as nausea and dizziness. The active compounds in cinnamon, including cinnamaldehyde and eugenol, may help calm the digestive system and reduce the sensation of motion-induced discomfort. To use, a few drops of the tincture can be diluted in water or taken sublingually before traveling.

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

2. Ginkgo biloba

Ginkgo biloba herbal tinctures are derived from the leaves of the ancient ginkgo tree and are traditionally used for their cognitive-enhancing and circulatory benefits.

While primarily known for improving memory and blood flow, some studies suggest that ginkgo biloba may also help alleviate symptoms of motion sickness by supporting the nervous system and reducing inner ear disturbances. The tincture is typically taken in small doses before traveling to help prepare the body for movement. However, it is important to consult a healthcare provider before use, especially for individuals with existing medical conditions or those taking other medications.

As with any herbal remedy, individual responses can vary, and results may not be consistent for everyone.

3. Hyoscyamus niger

Hyoscyamus niger, commonly known as henbane, is a plant that has been traditionally used in herbal medicine for its anticholinergic properties.

Herbal tinctures made from Hyoscyamus niger are sometimes employed to alleviate symptoms of motion sickness, such as nausea, dizziness, and vomiting. These tinctures work by reducing the activity of the parasympathetic nervous system, which can help ease the gastrointestinal distress associated with motion sickness. However, due to its potent effects and potential for side effects like dry mouth and blurred vision, it is typically recommended for short-term use under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

While some individuals may find relief from motion sickness symptoms with Hyoscyamus niger tinctures, it is important to exercise caution and consider alternative remedies that are safer and more widely accepted.

4. Piper methysticum

Piper methysticum, commonly known as kava, has been traditionally used for its calming effects and is now being explored as a potential natural remedy for motion sickness.

While research on kava tinctures specifically for motion sickness is limited, some studies suggest that its anxiolytic properties may help reduce the anxiety and nausea associated with motion sickness. Herbal tinctures made from piper methysticum are typically prepared by soaking the root in alcohol, allowing the active compounds to be extracted for consumption. These tinctures are often taken orally before travel to potentially mitigate symptoms.

However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before using kava tinctures, as they can have side effects and may interact with certain medications.

5. Mentha piperita

Mentha piperita, commonly known as peppermint, has been traditionally used to alleviate symptoms of motion sickness due to its calming and soothing properties.

Peppermint herbal tinctures are concentrated liquid extracts that contain essential oils and active compounds like menthol, which can help reduce nausea and dizziness. These tinctures work by stimulating the senses and providing a refreshing effect that may help ease the discomfort associated with motion sickness. They are often used in the form of oral drops or applied topically to the wrists or temples for quick relief.

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

6. Nepeta cataria

Nepeta cataria, commonly known as catnip, has been traditionally used in herbal remedies for its calming and soothing properties.

When formulated into a tincture, nepeta cataria may help alleviate symptoms of motion sickness by reducing nausea and promoting a sense of well-being. The essential oils in the plant, particularly nepetalactone, are believed to interact with the central nervous system to ease discomfort. While some studies suggest potential benefits, more research is needed to confirm its efficacy for motion sickness.

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

7. 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.

The active compound in black pepper, piperine, may help enhance the absorption of other herbs and support digestive function, which could reduce nausea. When prepared as a tincture, piper nigrum can be taken orally in small doses before or during travel to help prevent motion sickness. While some studies suggest that black pepper may have mild anti-emetic properties, more research is needed to confirm its efficacy for this specific use.

As with any herbal remedy, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider before using piper nigrum tinctures, especially for individuals with pre-existing medical conditions or those taking other medications.

8. Lavandula angustifolia

Lavandula angustifolia, commonly known as English lavender, has been traditionally used for its calming and soothing properties, making it a popular choice for herbal tinctures aimed at alleviating motion sickness.

These tinctures are typically prepared by extracting the essential oils of lavender flowers using alcohol, which helps preserve the active compounds that contribute to their therapeutic effects. The aromatic compounds in lavender are believed to reduce nausea by calming the central nervous system and easing the body's stress response during motion. Many people find that inhaling the scent of lavender or taking a small dose of the tincture before travel can significantly ease symptoms of motion sickness.

As a natural alternative to conventional remedies, lavender tinctures offer a gentle and accessible option for those seeking relief from motion sickness without the side effects of pharmaceuticals.

9. 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, echinacea tinctures may help reduce nausea and vomiting by supporting the body's natural response to stress and imbalance. The active compounds in echinacea, such as alkamides and polysaccharides, are believed to interact with the central nervous system to ease gastrointestinal distress. However, it is important to note that echinacea tinctures should not replace conventional treatments like antihistamines or ginger, and individuals should consult a healthcare provider before use.

Overall, while promising, more research is needed to fully understand its efficacy for motion sickness.

10. Valeriana officinalis

Valeriana officinalis, commonly known as valerian, is a herbal plant traditionally used for its calming properties.

Valerian root tinctures are often prepared by soaking the dried root in alcohol to extract its active compounds, such as valerenic acid and isolvalerenic acid. These tinctures are believed to support the nervous system and may help alleviate symptoms of motion sickness by reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation. While some anecdotal evidence suggests valerian may assist with nausea and dizziness during travel, scientific research on its effectiveness for motion sickness is limited.

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.