10 Best Herbal Decoctions For Morning Sickness

Herbal decoctions for morning sickness are a natural and effective way to alleviate the discomforts associated with early pregnancy.

These decoctions are made by steeping herbs in hot water, releasing their active compounds that help to ease symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and fatigue. Ginger, peppermint, and lemon balm are popular herbal decoctions used to treat morning sickness, as they have natural anti-inflammatory properties that soothe the stomach and calm digestive issues.

By using these herbal decoctions, women can reduce their reliance on over-the-counter medications and enjoy a smoother pregnancy experience, allowing them to focus on preparing for the arrival of their baby without the added stress of morning sickness.

The following article describes in detail the most important decoctions for morning sickness, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.

1. Ginkgo biloba

Maidenhair tree decoctions helps with morning sickness because it possesses natural anti-inflammatory properties that can alleviate nausea and vomiting.

The plant's extracts have been traditionally used to treat digestive issues, including indigestion and stomach cramps. The decoction is believed to soothe the digestive system, reducing symptoms of morning sickness associated with pregnancy.

Additionally, maidenhair tree has antioxidant properties that may help protect against oxidative stress, further contributing to its potential benefits in alleviating morning sickness discomfort.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba decoctions that help with morning sickness.

• Flavonoids: These plant compounds may help alleviate morning sickness by reducing inflammation and improving blood flow to the uterus, which can help alleviate nausea and other symptoms.
• Terpenoids: Bilobalide has been shown to have anti-nausea properties, possibly by interacting with serotonin receptors in the brain, which can help reduce feelings of nausea and vomiting associated with morning sickness.
• Ginkgolides: Ginkgolide B may help alleviate morning sickness by inhibiting the release of serotonin, a hormone involved in nausea and vomiting, and by reducing inflammation in the stomach and intestines.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make decoctions for morning sickness.

• Leaves: They are used to make decoctions due to their high concentration of flavonoids and terpenoids, which are believed to help alleviate morning sickness.
• Seeds: They are used for their potential to counteract the effects of nausea and vomiting, possibly due to their neuroprotective properties.
• Fruits: They are used to make decoctions, likely due to their potential to stabilize blood sugar levels and alleviate morning sickness symptoms.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for morning sickness.

1. Harvest fresh ginkgo biloba leaves in the fall when they are bright green and tender.
2. Dry the leaves thoroughly by spreading them out in a single layer for 1 week.
3. Measure out 2-3 teaspoons of dried ginkgo biloba leaves for every 8 ounces of water.
4. Steep the dried leaves in boiling water for 5-10 minutes to release their active compounds.
5. Strain the liquid and discard the solids to produce a clear herbal decoction.

2. Mentha x piperita

Peppermint decoctions helps with morning sickness because of its natural ability to soothe and calm the digestive system.

The menthol content in peppermint has a cooling effect on the stomach, reducing nausea and vomiting. Additionally, peppermint's antispasmodic properties help ease stomach cramps and spasms that often accompany morning sickness.

Drinking a warm peppermint decoction first thing in the morning can also help stimulate digestion and alleviate bloating, providing relief from discomfort and making it easier to start the day feeling refreshed.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita decoctions that help with morning sickness.

• Menthol: Acts as a local anesthetic and helps to numb the stomach, reducing nausea and vomiting associated with morning sickness.
• Rosmarinic acid: Exhibits antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help alleviate nausea and vomiting by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the stomach.
• Caryophyllene oxide: Has been shown to have anti-nausea and anti-emetic effects, potentially helping to reduce the frequency and severity of morning sickness episodes.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make decoctions for morning sickness.

• Leaves: Used for making decoctions due to their high concentration of menthol and menthone, which help alleviate nausea and reduce morning sickness symptoms.
• Roots: Utilized in decoctions for their warming and anti-inflammatory properties, which can aid in relieving stomach discomfort associated with morning sickness.
• Leaves: The leaves are also used because they have a calming effect on the digestive system, which can help alleviate morning sickness symptoms.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for morning sickness.

1. Harvest 10-20 grams of fresh mentha x piperita leaves and stems from the plant.
2. Chop the harvested plant material into small pieces to increase surface area for infusion.
3. Combine the chopped plant material with 500 milliliters of boiling water in a heat-resistant container.
4. Steep the mixture for 5-10 minutes to allow the active compounds to infuse into the water.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve to remove the plant material.

3. Zingiber officinale

Ginger decoctions helps with morning sickness because of its natural ability to soothe the stomach and alleviate nausea.

The active compounds in ginger, such as gingerol and shogaol, work to reduce inflammation in the digestive tract and improve digestion, which can help alleviate symptoms of morning sickness.

Additionally, ginger has a natural antihistaminic effect that helps to relax the muscles in the digestive tract, reducing spasms and cramping that can contribute to nausea and vomiting.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale decoctions that help with morning sickness.

• Gingerols: Gingerols are a type of sesquiterpene that help alleviate morning sickness by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins, which contribute to nausea and vomiting.
• Shogaols: Shogaols are also sesquiterpenes found in ginger that help with morning sickness by modulating the levels of serotonin and other neurotransmitters, reducing nausea and vomiting.
• 6-gingerol: 6-Gingerol is a specific gingerol that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help alleviate morning sickness by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress that contribute to nausea and vomiting.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make decoctions for morning sickness.

• Buds: The unopened buds of the Zingiber officinale are used to make decoctions for morning sickness, as they contain a higher concentration of essential oils compared to the mature rhizome.
• Roots: The dried and powdered roots of the Zingiber officinale are used to make decoctions for morning sickness, due to their ability to stimulate digestion and alleviate nausea.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for morning sickness.

1. Harvest 10-20 fresh zingiber officinale rhizomes with healthy appearance and no signs of mold or pests.
2. Wash the rhizomes under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris.
3. Peel the rhizomes and slice them into thin pieces using a sharp knife.
4. Combine 5-10 grams of the sliced rhizome pieces with 500 milliliters of boiling water in a pot.
5. Simmer the mixture for 5-7 minutes then strain it through a cheesecloth to obtain the decoction.

4. Matricaria chamomilla

Chamomile decoctions helps with morning sickness because of its natural calming properties, which can soothe an upset stomach and alleviate nausea.

The apigenin and luteolin in chamomile have been shown to bind to receptors in the brain, reducing inflammation and promoting relaxation. Drinking a warm cup of chamomile tea first thing in the morning may help ease symptoms, allowing women to feel more refreshed and ready to take on their day.

This natural remedy can provide relief from the discomfort associated with morning sickness.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla decoctions that help with morning sickness.

• Apigenin: An apigenin, a flavonoid, helps alleviate morning sickness by binding to benzodiazepine receptors in the brain, which may reduce nausea and vomiting.
• Α-bisabolol: α-Bisabolol, a sesquiterpene alcohol, helps with morning sickness by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which can reduce stomach discomfort and alleviate nausea.
• Matricine: Matricine, a sesquiterpene lactone, may help with morning sickness by acting as an anti-inflammatory agent and a GABA receptor agonist, which can have a sedative effect and reduce nausea.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make decoctions for morning sickness.

• Flowers: They are the most used and recommended part, as they are rich in apigenin and other compounds that have anti-inflammatory and soothing effects, helping to alleviate morning sickness symptoms.
• Leaves: They are sometimes used in combination with flowers, as they contain similar compounds that can help to calm the stomach and reduce nausea.
• Seeds: Some herbal remedies include the seeds of German chamomile, which are believed to have a similar effect to the flowers, although their effectiveness is not as well-documented.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for morning sickness.

1. Harvest 2-3 handfuls of dried matricaria chamomilla flowers in the early morning for optimal potency.
2. Grind 2 teaspoons of the dried flowers into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle for 2 minutes.
3. Combine the ground powder with 1 cup of boiling water in a heat-resistant glass cup for 5 minutes.
4. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass container for 2 minutes.
5. Store the decoction in a cool dark place and consume 1/4 cup up to 3 times a day for 30 minutes.

5. Lavandula angustifolia

English lavender decoctions helps with morning sickness because of its calming and soothing properties, which can alleviate nausea and vomiting associated with pregnancy.

The aromatic compounds in lavender, such as linalool and linalyl acetate, have been shown to reduce anxiety and stress, common triggers for morning sickness.

By promoting relaxation and reducing discomfort, herbal English lavender decoctions may help expecting mothers feel more comfortable during this critical period of their pregnancy journey.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia decoctions that help with morning sickness.

• Linalool: This terpene helps alleviate morning sickness by reducing nausea and vomiting through its anxiolytic and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Linalyl acetate: This terpene also contributes to the relief of morning sickness by promoting relaxation, reducing anxiety, and alleviating nausea through its sedative and anti-inflammatory effects.
• Lavandulol: This terpene helps reduce morning sickness symptoms by exerting anti-inflammatory and anxiolytic effects, which in turn alleviate nausea and vomiting.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make decoctions for morning sickness.

• Leaves: They are used for their calming effects to help alleviate morning sickness symptoms.
• Flowers: Lavender flowers are known for their soothing properties and are often used to create teas and decoctions to help reduce nausea and vomiting associated with morning sickness.
• Stems: The stems of Lavandula angustifolia contain essential oils that contribute to their calming effects, which can help alleviate morning sickness symptoms.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for morning sickness.

1. Gather 20-30 fresh or dried flowers of lavandula angustifolia and place them in a heat-resistant glass bowl.
2. Combine the gathered flowers with 1 liter of boiling water and let it steep for 5-7 minutes.
3. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into another container to remove the solids.
4. Discard the solids and transfer the remaining liquid to a clean glass bottle with a tight-fitting lid.
5. Store the herbal decoction in a cool dark place for up to 2 days before consuming it.

6. Foeniculum vulgare

Fennel decoctions helps with morning sickness because it soothes the digestive system, calming cramps, bloating, and nausea that often accompany pregnancy.

The volatile oils present in fennel leaves have a natural anti-inflammatory effect, which helps to alleviate the discomfort associated with hormonal changes during early pregnancy. Additionally, fennel's carminative properties help to relax the muscles and ease spasms, further reducing symptoms of morning sickness.

By drinking a warm fennel decoction first thing in the morning, many women find relief from these distressing symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Foeniculum vulgare decoctions that help with morning sickness.

• Anethole: This terpene acts as a uterine relaxant, which can help alleviate the cramping and discomfort associated with morning sickness.
• Ferulic acid: As a phenolic compound, ferulic acid has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce nausea and vomiting caused by morning sickness.
• Fenchone: This monoterpene has a calming effect on the digestive system, which can help alleviate morning sickness symptoms by reducing nausea and promoting digestion.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of fennel used to make decoctions for morning sickness.

• Leaves: The leaves of Foeniculum vulgare are commonly used due to their high concentration of essential oils, which help alleviate morning sickness symptoms.
• Seeds: Foeniculum vulgare seeds are used because they are a rich source of anethole, a compound known for its anti-nausea properties.
• Barks: Foeniculum vulgare barks are used in some herbal remedies for morning sickness due to their potential to soothe digestive issues and reduce nausea.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic fennel for morning sickness.

1. Gather 2-3 teaspoons of dried foeniculum vulgare roots and stems from a trusted herbal supplier.
2. Measure 1 cup of water and bring it to a boil in a medium-sized pot.
3. Add the dried foeniculum vulgare roots and stems to the boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
4. Reduce the heat to low and let the decoction simmer for 10-15 minutes with the lid on.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.

7. Taraxacum officinale

Dandelion decoctions helps with morning sickness because of its unique properties that calm digestive issues and alleviate nausea.

The bitter compounds found in dandelion roots and leaves have a natural ability to stimulate digestion, reduce inflammation, and eliminate toxins from the body. Additionally, dandelion's anti-inflammatory properties help soothe the stomach lining, reducing irritability and discomfort.

By promoting healthy digestion and relieving inflammation, dandelion decoctions can provide effective relief from morning sickness, allowing pregnant women to feel more comfortable and confident throughout their daily routines.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale decoctions that help with morning sickness.

• Flavonoids: These plant compounds help alleviate morning sickness by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can reduce nausea and vomiting.
• Phenolic acids: These compounds may help alleviate morning sickness by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and anti-emetic properties, which can reduce inflammation and nausea.
• Saponins: These compounds may help alleviate morning sickness by exhibiting anti-nausea and anti-vomiting properties, which can reduce the severity of morning sickness symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make decoctions for morning sickness.

• Roots: They are used to make decoctions for morning sickness because they contain inulin, which helps stabilize blood sugar levels and alleviate nausea.
• Leaves: They are used to make decoctions for morning sickness because they contain sesquiterpene lactones, which have anti-inflammatory properties that may help alleviate morning sickness symptoms.
• Flowers: They are used to make decoctions for morning sickness because they contain flavonoids and terpenes, which have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties that may help alleviate nausea and vomiting.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for morning sickness.

1. Harvest 30-40 fresh dandelion roots in the morning after the dew has evaporated for best results.
2. Wash the roots under cold running water to remove any dirt and debris thoroughly.
3. Chop the roots into small pieces using a sharp knife or a herb cutter to increase surface area.
4. Steep 1-2 teaspoons of chopped roots in 1 quart of boiling water for 10-15 minutes to release active compounds.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container to remove solids completely.

8. Gentiana lutea

Yellow gentian decoctions helps with morning sickness because its bitter compounds have a natural anti-emetic effect, calming the digestive system and reducing nausea.

The decoction's active ingredients, such as gentiopicrin and amarogentin, work to stabilize stomach acids and reduce inflammation in the gut, which can contribute to morning sickness symptoms.

By soothing the digestive tract and alleviating nausea, yellow gentian decoctions provide natural relief for women experiencing morning sickness during pregnancy.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Gentiana lutea decoctions that help with morning sickness.

• Alkaloids: The alkaloids present in Gentiana lutea, such as gentiogenin and gentiopicrin, have been found to have anti-emetic properties, helping to reduce nausea and vomiting associated with morning sickness.
• Triterpenoids: Triterpenoids like gentioglycoside and gentiobioside have been reported to have anti-inflammatory and anti-spasmodic effects, which may help alleviate the stomach cramps and discomfort associated with morning sickness.
• Iridoid glycosides: Iridoid glycosides like gentioglycoside and sweroside have been found to have anti-inflammatory and anti-nausea effects, which may help alleviate the symptoms of morning sickness by reducing inflammation and stabilizing the stomach.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of yellow gentian used to make decoctions for morning sickness.

• Roots: The roots are commonly used due to their high concentration of gentiopicroside, a compound believed to help alleviate morning sickness symptoms.
• Leaves: Leaves are used in decoctions as they contain gentiopicroside and other bioactive compounds that may help alleviate nausea and vomiting associated with morning sickness.
• Flowers: Flowers of Gentiana lutea are used in herbal medicine due to their gentiopicroside content, which may help alleviate morning sickness symptoms.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic yellow gentian for morning sickness.

1. Gather 1-2 teaspoons of dried gentiana lutea root and place it in a heat-resistant container.
2. Add 1 cup of boiling water to the container and let it steep for 10-15 minutes.
3. Strain the liquid through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a separate container.
4. Discard the solids and transfer the liquid to a glass bottle or container.
5. Store the decoction in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

9. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Licorice decoctions helps with morning sickness because they have a soothing effect on the digestive system, which can help alleviate nausea and vomiting.

The natural compounds found in licorice root, such as glycyrrhizin, have anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce inflammation in the stomach and intestines, making it easier for the body to digest food.

Additionally, licorice decoctions may also help regulate hormones, including progesterone, which is often imbalanced during pregnancy, leading to morning sickness symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra decoctions that help with morning sickness.

• Triterpenoids: Glycyrrhizin, a triterpenoid saponin, has anti-inflammatory properties that may help alleviate morning sickness symptoms by reducing inflammation in the digestive tract.
• Flavonoids: Licoflavonone, a flavonoid found in Glycyrrhiza glabra, exhibits antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may contribute to its ability to reduce nausea and vomiting associated with morning sickness.
• Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids and their glycosides in Glycyrrhiza glabra decoctions may help alleviate morning sickness by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can aid in reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the digestive system.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make decoctions for morning sickness.

• Roots: Roots are the primary part used due to their high concentration of glycyrrhizin, a compound that helps alleviate nausea.
• Leaves: Leaves are used as they contain flavonoids and saponins, which have anti-inflammatory and anti-nausea properties.
• (optional) roots (again) or barks: Some sources suggest the use of the roots or barks, as they also contain glycyrrhizin and other compounds that may help alleviate morning sickness symptoms.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for morning sickness.

1. Gather 20 grams of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots and clean them thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris.
2. Cut the cleaned roots into small pieces and place them in a large pot to facilitate even infusion.
3. Combine the root pieces with 4 liters of water in the pot and bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
4. Reduce the heat to low and allow the decoction to simmer for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve to remove the solids and discard the used root pieces.

10. Ulmus rubra

Slippery elm decoctions helps with morning sickness because of its natural anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.

The mucilage content in slippery elm coats and calms the stomach lining, reducing irritation and discomfort associated with morning sickness. It also helps to ease nausea and vomiting by regulating digestive enzymes and pH levels, promoting a sense of calm and relief for those experiencing symptoms.

Regular consumption of slippery elm decoctions may help alleviate morning sickness, allowing individuals to feel more comfortable and supported throughout their pregnancy journey.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ulmus rubra decoctions that help with morning sickness.

• Flavonoids: These plant compounds help alleviate morning sickness by reducing inflammation and modulating the body's response to nausea-inducing stimuli, such as pregnancy hormones.
• Tannins: Tannins in Ulmus rubra decoctions may help combat morning sickness by contracting the smooth muscle in the digestive tract, reducing symptoms of nausea and vomiting.
• Alkaloids: Certain alkaloids present in Ulmus rubra may have antiemetic properties, helping to alleviate morning sickness by blocking the action of neurotransmitters involved in nausea and vomiting.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of slippery elm used to make decoctions for morning sickness.

• Roots: They are rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties, making them effective in soothing morning sickness.
• Leaves: Their high content of tannins helps to reduce nausea and vomiting associated with morning sickness.
• Barks: The bark's astringent properties aid in relieving stomach discomfort and calming the digestive system to alleviate morning sickness symptoms.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic slippery elm for morning sickness.

1. Gather 40-60 grams of dried ulmus rubra bark in a clean container for decoction preparation.
2. Combine the gathered ulmus rubra bark with 1 liter of water in a medium saucepan.
3. Boil the water with the ulmus rubra bark at 100 degrees celsius for 10-15 minutes.
4. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth into a separate container to remove solid particles.
5. Allow the decoction to cool for 30 minutes before consumption or storage in the refrigerator.

What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for morning sickness?

The best combination of herbal decoctions that help with morning sickness is Ginger and Peppermint.

Ginger, being a natural anti-inflammatory, helps to soothe the stomach and alleviate nausea. Peppermint, on the other hand, aids in digestion and eases stomach cramps.

When combined, these two herbs create a powerful remedy to combat morning sickness. Drinking a decoction of fresh ginger and dried peppermint leaves can provide relief and help alleviate symptoms associated with morning sickness during pregnancy.

Regular consumption may also help reduce overall discomfort.

What ailments similar to morning sickness are treated with herbal decoctions?

Ailments similar to morning sickness that are treated with herbal decoctions are nausea, vomiting, and digestive discomfort.

Certain herbs such as Ginger (Zingiber officinale), Peppermint (Mentha piperita), and Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis) have anti-inflammatory and calming properties that can help alleviate these symptoms.

Herbal decoctions made from these plants can be consumed as a tea or added to food to provide relief from nausea and digestive issues.