10 Best Herbal Baths For Nausea

Herbal baths can be a soothing and effective remedy for nausea by leveraging the calming properties of certain plant-based ingredients.

Herbs such as chamomile, lavender, and ginger are commonly used in bath infusions to help ease digestive discomfort and reduce feelings of sickness. The warmth of the water combined with the aromatic compounds from the herbs can promote relaxation and ease nausea symptoms. To prepare an herbal bath, simply steep the chosen herbs in hot water, then add the infused liquid to a warm bath and soak for 15 to 30 minutes.

This natural approach offers a gentle and non-invasive way to support overall wellness during episodes of nausea.

1. Peppermint (Mentha piperita)

Mentha piperita, commonly known as peppermint, has been traditionally used in herbal baths to alleviate nausea and digestive discomfort.

When infused into bathwater, the aromatic compounds of peppermint can be absorbed through the skin, providing a calming and soothing effect on the body. The cooling properties of peppermint help to reduce the sensation of nausea by easing tension in the digestive system and promoting relaxation. A warm peppermint bath can also help to ease morning sickness in pregnant women and relieve symptoms of motion sickness.

For best results, it is recommended to use fresh or high-quality peppermint leaves and ensure the bath temperature is comfortably warm to enhance the therapeutic benefits.

2. Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra)

Glycyrrhiza glabra, commonly known as licorice root, has been traditionally used in herbal remedies to alleviate nausea and digestive discomfort.

When incorporated into herbal baths, the soothing properties of licorice root may help ease nausea by promoting relaxation and reducing stress, which are known contributors to gastrointestinal upset. The essential oils and compounds in licorice root are believed to have mild antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory effects, which can soothe the digestive system. To prepare a licorice root bath, a handful of dried licorice root can be simmered in water, then allowed to cool before being used for a soothing soak.

While herbal baths may offer complementary relief for nausea, they should not replace medical treatment for severe or persistent symptoms.

3. Chaste tree (Vitex agnus-castus)

Vitex agnus-castus, also known as chaste tree, has been traditionally used in herbal baths to alleviate symptoms of nausea.

When infused into bath water, the essential oils and compounds from vitex may help soothe the digestive system and reduce feelings of queasiness. This herbal remedy is particularly beneficial for individuals experiencing nausea due to hormonal imbalances, such as those related to menstruation or pregnancy. The calming properties of vitex can promote relaxation, which in turn may ease nausea by reducing stress and anxiety.

While not a substitute for medical treatment, vitex herbal baths can serve as a complementary therapy to support overall well-being during periods of nausea.

4. Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)

Rosmarinus officinalis, commonly known as rosemary, has been traditionally used in herbal baths to alleviate symptoms of nausea.

The essential oils derived from rosemary leaves contain compounds like cineole and camphor, which are known for their calming and digestive properties. When incorporated into a warm bath, these oils can help soothe the nervous system and reduce feelings of queasiness. The aromatic steam from the bath may also help ease stomach discomfort and promote a sense of relaxation.

As a natural remedy, rosemary baths offer a gentle and aromatic approach to managing nausea without the use of pharmaceuticals.

5. Black pepper (Piper nigrum)

Piper nigrum, commonly known as black pepper, has been traditionally used in herbal baths to alleviate nausea due to its warming and stimulating properties.

The essential oils and compounds found in black pepper, such as piperine, may help improve circulation and ease digestive discomfort when used in a bath. To prepare a black pepper herbal bath, a handful of dried black pepper can be added to warm water, allowing the aromatic compounds to diffuse into the water. Soaking in this bath for 15 to 20 minutes may help soothe the stomach and reduce feelings of nausea through its calming and antispasmodic effects.

While generally safe, individuals with sensitive skin or certain medical conditions should consult a healthcare provider before using black pepper in baths.

6. Ginger (Zingiber officinale)

Zingiber officinale, commonly known as ginger, has been traditionally used to alleviate nausea and digestive discomfort.

When incorporated into herbal baths, ginger's active compounds, such as gingerol and shogaol, are believed to have soothing effects on the nervous system and digestive tract. The warmth of the bath combined with the aromatic properties of ginger can help relax the body and ease feelings of queasiness. To prepare a ginger herbal bath, fresh or dried ginger slices can be boiled and added to warm water, allowing the essential oils to infuse into the water.

This natural remedy is particularly beneficial for individuals experiencing motion sickness, morning sickness, or gastrointestinal upset.

7. Valerian (Valeriana officinalis)

Valeriana officinalis, commonly known as valerian, is a traditional herb often used in herbal baths to help alleviate nausea.

When infused into bathwater, valerian's calming properties can soothe the nervous system, which may reduce feelings of queasiness. The aromatic compounds in valerian are believed to ease digestive discomfort and promote relaxation, making it a popular remedy for motion sickness or morning sickness. To prepare a valerian bath, steep dried valerian root in hot water for several hours before adding it to warm bathwater.

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

8. Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare)

Foeniculum vulgare, commonly known as fennel, has been traditionally used in herbal baths to alleviate nausea.

The essential oils derived from fennel seeds contain compounds like anethole, which possess mild sedative and antispasmodic properties. When incorporated into a warm bath, these oils can help soothe the digestive system and reduce feelings of queasiness. A fennel herbal bath is particularly beneficial for individuals experiencing motion sickness, morning sickness, or digestive discomfort.

By promoting relaxation and easing gastrointestinal tension, fennel baths offer a natural and soothing remedy for nausea.

9. Ceylon cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum)

Cinnamomum verum, commonly known as true cinnamon, has been traditionally used in herbal baths to alleviate nausea by leveraging its soothing and aromatic properties.

The essential oils derived from cinnamon bark contain compounds like cinnamaldehyde, which may help calm the digestive system and reduce feelings of queasiness. When infused into bath water, the gentle warmth and aromatic diffusion of cinnamon can promote relaxation and ease stomach discomfort. This practice is particularly beneficial for individuals experiencing motion sickness, morning sickness, or post-meal nausea.

While not a substitute for medical treatment, cinnamon-infused baths offer a natural, complementary approach to managing nausea through aromatherapy and hydrotherapy.

10. English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)

Lavandula angustifolia, commonly known as English lavender, has been traditionally used in herbal baths to alleviate nausea due to its calming and soothing properties.

The essential oils derived from lavender contain compounds like linalool and linalyl acetate, which have been shown to reduce gastrointestinal distress and induce a sense of relaxation. When infused into bath water, lavender can help ease nausea by promoting relaxation and reducing stress, which often exacerbates digestive discomfort. A warm lavender bath can also help soothe the nervous system, potentially reducing the physiological responses that contribute to nausea.

For those experiencing motion sickness or morning sickness, incorporating lavender into a bath routine may offer a natural and gentle remedy.