10 Best Herbal Creams For Motion Sickness

Herbal creams for motion sickness are topical remedies containing natural ingredients that help alleviate nausea and discomfort associated with motion sickness.

These creams often feature ginger, peppermint, and other herbs known for their anti-inflammatory and calming properties. Examples include creams containing gingerol, which has been shown to reduce nausea, and valerian root, which promotes relaxation.

By providing fast-acting relief, these creams can greatly improve lives, enabling people to travel and enjoy activities without the debilitating effects of motion sickness.

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

1. Mentha x piperita

Mentha x piperita, also known as peppermint, creams helps with motion sickness because its active compounds, such as menthol and menthone, have a calming effect on the stomach and digestive system.

The menthol in peppermint creams can also help to reduce nausea and vomiting by stimulating the brain's vomiting center and blocking the action of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that can trigger nausea.

Additionally, peppermint creams can help to reduce anxiety and stress, which are common contributors to motion sickness.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Limonene: Helps with motion sickness by reducing nausea and vomiting through its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can alleviate symptoms associated with inner ear problems.
• Menthone: Contributes to the relief of motion sickness by exhibiting sedative properties, which can help reduce anxiety and calm the nervous system, thereby alleviating symptoms such as dizziness and nausea.
• Menthol: Aids in motion sickness relief by acting as a natural anxiolytic and anti-inflammatory agent, which can reduce anxiety and alleviate discomfort associated with motion sickness, as well as providing a cooling sensation that can help alleviate nausea.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make creams for motion sickness.

• Leaves: The leaves of peppermint contain menthol and menthone, which have a calming effect on the digestive system and can help alleviate nausea associated with motion sickness.
• Stems: The stems of peppermint contain a high concentration of menthol and other essential oils, which can be extracted and added to creams to provide relief from motion sickness symptoms.
• Roots: The roots of peppermint are said to have a higher concentration of menthol and other active compounds than the leaves, making them a valuable source of extracts for motion sickness creams.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Infuse 1 cup of fresh peppermint leaves in 2 cups of distilled water for 10 minutes at 212°f.
2. Strain the infused liquid through a cheesecloth into a clean container to remove solids.
3. Combine 1/4 cup of beeswax and 1/4 cup of shea butter in a double boiler to melt.
4. Mix 2 tablespoons of infused peppermint liquid with 2 tablespoons of coconut oil and 2 tablespoons of aloe vera gel.
5. Pour the melted beeswax mixture into a mixing bowl and blend with the peppermint mixture until smooth.

2. Zingiber officinale

Zingiber officinale, also known as ginger, creams helps with motion sickness because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties and ability to stimulate digestion.

The active compound, gingerol, helps to calm the digestive system and alleviate nausea. When applied topically in cream form, it can be absorbed through the skin, providing relief from motion sickness symptoms. Additionally, ginger's warming sensation can help to improve blood circulation, further alleviating nausea and discomfort associated with motion sickness.

This natural remedy offers a gentle and effective solution for those prone to motion sickness.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Gingerols: Gingerols, particularly gingerol and shogaol, have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and anti-emetic properties, helping to alleviate nausea and vomiting associated with motion sickness.
• Zingiberene: Zingiberene, a sesquiterpene, has been found to have anti-inflammatory and anti-nausea effects, which can help reduce the symptoms of motion sickness.
• Shogaols: Shogaols, a type of phenolic compound, have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and anti-emetic properties, which can help alleviate nausea and vomiting associated with motion sickness.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make creams for motion sickness.

• Rhyzomes: Essential oils extracted from rhyzomes are used to alleviate nausea and vomiting associated with motion sickness.
• Roots: The bioactive compounds present in the roots of Zingiber officinale help to reduce symptoms of motion sickness and provide relief.
• Seeds: The seeds of Zingiber officinale contain compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to alleviate motion sickness symptoms.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Weigh 2 tablespoons of dried zingiber officinale roots and grind them into a fine powder using a spice grinder.
2. Combine the ground powder with 8 ounces of distilled water in a saucepan and heat it over medium heat.
3. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes.
4. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into a clean bowl and discard the solids.
5. Mix the cooled infusion with 8 ounces of heavy cream and 2 tablespoons of beeswax in a saucepan over low heat.

3. Lavandula angustifolia

Lavandula angustifolia, also known as English lavender, creams helps with motion sickness because of its calming and relaxing properties.

The active compounds in lavender, such as linalool and linalyl acetate, have a soothing effect on the nervous system, reducing anxiety and nausea associated with motion sickness. The cream's topical application allows for rapid absorption, providing quick relief from symptoms.

This natural remedy has been used for centuries to alleviate motion sickness, making it a popular choice for travelers and individuals prone to seasickness.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Linalool: A terpene with sedative and anti-inflammatory properties that helps reduce nausea and dizziness associated with motion sickness.
• Linalyl acetate: A terpene that has a calming effect on the nervous system, reducing anxiety and stress that can exacerbate motion sickness symptoms.
• Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic compound that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce inflammation and alleviate nausea and vomiting associated with motion sickness.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: They are used due to their calming and soothing properties, which help to reduce nausea and dizziness associated with motion sickness.
• Flowers: The flowers are utilized for their tranquilizing and anti-inflammatory effects, which aid in alleviating symptoms of motion sickness.
• Stems: The stems are used because they contain essential oils that possess anti-nausea and anti-anxiety properties, which help to calm the stomach and reduce motion sickness symptoms.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Infuse 1 cup of dried lavandula angustifolia flowers in 2 cups of carrier oil like sweet almond oil for 2-4 weeks.
2. Strain the infused oil through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean bowl to remove the plant material.
3. Mix 1/4 cup of the infused oil with 2 tablespoons of beeswax and 2 tablespoons of shea butter in a double boiler.
4. Heat the mixture over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the beeswax and shea butter have melted and combined smoothly.
5. Remove the mixture from the heat and allow it to cool and thicken before transferring it to a clean container.

4. Matricaria chamomilla

Matricaria chamomilla, also known as chamomile, creams helps with motion sickness because it possesses anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that calm the digestive system and alleviate nausea.

The apigenin and bisabolol present in chamomile have a sedative effect, reducing anxiety and stress levels associated with motion sickness. Additionally, chamomile's ability to relax muscles and calm the mind helps to regulate the body's internal balance, providing relief from the discomfort and disorientation that come with motion sickness.

This makes chamomile creams an effective natural remedy for motion sickness.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Apigenin: This flavonoid acts as an anxiolytic and antihistamine agent, helping to reduce anxiety and alleviate symptoms associated with motion sickness.
• Luteolin: This flavonoid has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help to soothe the stomach and reduce nausea and vomiting associated with motion sickness.
• Chamazulene: This sesquiterpene lactone has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which may help to relax the digestive system and alleviate symptoms of motion sickness, such as nausea and vomiting.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make creams for motion sickness.

• Flowers: They are used due to their high apigenin content, which has a sedative effect on the nervous system, helping to alleviate motion sickness symptoms.
• Leaves: They are used because of their apigenin and other flavonoid compounds, which have a calming effect on the body and can help reduce nausea associated with motion sickness.
• Seeds: They are used due to their apigenin and other active compounds, which have a soothing effect on the digestive system and can help alleviate symptoms of motion sickness.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 30-40 matricaria chamomilla flowers in the early morning to ensure optimal potency and freshness.
2. Dry the harvested flowers in a single layer at 35-40 degrees celsius for 2-3 hours or until completely dry.
3. Steep 20 grams of dried matricaria chamomilla flowers in 500 milliliters of carrier oil such as sweet almond oil for 2-3 weeks.
4. Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth and discard the solids to obtain the herbal extract.
5. Mix 10-15 milliliters of the herbal extract with 20 milliliters of beeswax and 50 milliliters of distilled water to create the final cream.

5. Tanacetum parthenium

Tanacetum parthenium, also known as feverfew, creams helps with motion sickness because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties and ability to soothe the digestive system.

The active compounds in feverfew, such as parthenolide, have been shown to reduce nausea and vomiting by inhibiting the release of serotonin and other neurotransmitters that trigger these symptoms.

Additionally, feverfew's ability to calm the stomach and alleviate discomfort may help to reduce the severity of motion sickness, making it a popular natural remedy for travelers and individuals prone to motion sickness.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Tanacetum parthenium creams that help with motion sickness.

• Chrysanthemum monoterpenes: These compounds, particularly bornyl acetate, have anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate the symptoms of motion sickness by reducing nausea and vomiting.
• Parthenolide: A sesquiterpene lactone found in Tanacetum parthenium, parthenolide has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and anti-emetic effects, which help prevent and alleviate motion sickness symptoms.
• Flavonoids: These plant-derived compounds have been found to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce inflammation and alleviate nausea associated with motion sickness.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of feverfew used to make creams for motion sickness.

• Leaves: They are used due to their high content of sesquiterpene lactones, particularly parthenolide, which has anti-inflammatory and anti-nausea properties.
• Flowers: They are used for their sedative and anti-inflammatory effects, which help in reducing motion sickness symptoms.
• Stems: They may be used for their similar properties to leaves and flowers, such as sesquiterpene lactones, but this is less documented compared to leaves and flowers.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic feverfew for motion sickness.

1. Harvest 100g of dried tanacetum parthenium flowers and leaves from a trusted supplier.
2. Combine the dried tanacetum parthenium with 200g of distilled water in a stainless steel pot.
3. Simmer the mixture for 30 minutes over low heat then strain the liquid using cheesecloth.
4. Combine 200g of beeswax and 100g of coconut oil in a double boiler and heat until melted.
5. Blend the infused tanacetum parthenium liquid with the melted wax and oil mixture to create a smooth cream.

6. Valeriana officinalis

Valeriana officinalis, also known as valerian, creams helps with motion sickness because of its natural sedative properties.

The root of the valerian plant contains valerenic acid and isovaleric acid, which have a calming effect on the nervous system. When applied topically in the form of a cream, these compounds can help to reduce the symptoms of motion sickness, such as dizziness and nausea, by promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety.

This natural remedy has been used for centuries to alleviate travel-related discomfort.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Valeriana officinalis creams that help with motion sickness.

• Valerenic acid: Valerenic acid, a sesquiterpene, helps with motion sickness by inhibiting the activity of GABA receptors, thus reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation.
• Isovaleric acid: Isovaleric acid, an isobutyric acid, has a sedative effect that helps alleviate motion sickness symptoms by reducing nausea and vomiting.
• Valeranone: Valeranone, a sesquiterpene, may help with motion sickness by modulating the activity of neurotransmitters, such as GABA and serotonin, which are involved in regulating nausea and vomiting.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of valerian used to make creams for motion sickness.

• Roots: The roots of Valeriana officinalis contain valerenic acid, which is believed to have a sedative effect and help alleviate symptoms of motion sickness.
• Seeds: Valeriana officinalis seeds are rich in valeranone, a compound that may help to reduce anxiety and nausea associated with motion sickness.
• Roots: The roots of Valeriana officinalis are also a common source of valerian oil, which is often used in creams to promote relaxation and alleviate motion sickness symptoms.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic valerian for motion sickness.

1. Harvest mature valeriana officinalis roots in late summer or early fall when the plant is in full bloom.
2. Dry the harvested roots in a warm and well-ventilated area for 7 to 10 days.
3. Grind the dried roots into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or mortar and pestle.
4. Mix 10 grams of the powdered root with 20 grams of beeswax and 10 grams of coconut oil.
5. Heat the mixture at 160 to 180 degrees fahrenheit for 10 to 15 minutes until it reaches a smooth consistency.

7. Citrus x aurantium

Citrus x aurantium, also known as bitter orange, creams helps with motion sickness because of its unique properties.

The natural compounds found in Citrus x aurantium have been shown to have a calming effect on the body and mind, which can help alleviate symptoms of motion sickness such as nausea and dizziness. The cream's ability to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety can also help individuals feel more comfortable during travel, making it a popular choice among those prone to motion sickness.

Its effectiveness has been attributed to its natural and gentle approach.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Citrus x aurantium creams that help with motion sickness.

• Synephrine: A phenylethanolamine alkaloid that helps to stimulate the central nervous system, thereby increasing alertness and reducing nausea associated with motion sickness.
• Sesquiterpenes: These compounds exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help alleviate the symptoms of motion sickness by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the body.
• Citral: A monoterpene that has been shown to have a sedative effect on the nervous system, which can help to reduce anxiety and alleviate the symptoms of motion sickness.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of bitter orange used to make creams for motion sickness.

• Seeds: They contain the alkaloid aurantiamide, which helps to alleviate nausea and vomiting associated with motion sickness.
• Fruits: The essential oils extracted from the fruits, particularly the peel, have anti-emetic properties that can help to prevent motion sickness.
• Leaves: The leaves of Citrus x aurantium contain flavonoids and limonoids, which have been traditionally used to treat nausea and other gastrointestinal issues related to motion sickness.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic bitter orange for motion sickness.

1. Harvest fresh citrus x aurantium peels in the morning after the first dew has evaporated for optimal oil content.
2. Combine 20 grams of citrus x aurantium peels with 100 grams of carrier oil in a clean glass container.
3. Infuse the mixture in a double boiler at 100°f for 2 hours to extract the essential oils.
4. Strain the infused mixture through a cheesecloth into a clean container and discard the solids.
5. Add 10 grams of beeswax and 10 grams of shea butter to the infused oil mixture and heat until melted.

8. Passiflora incarnata

Passiflora incarnata, also known as maypop, creams helps with motion sickness because it contains active compounds that have a natural sedative effect on the nervous system.

These compounds, including flavonoids and alkaloids, help to calm the stomach and reduce nausea. By reducing the symptoms of motion sickness, Passiflora incarnata creams can provide relief for those who experience discomfort while traveling or engaging in activities that cause motion.

Its natural properties also help to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Passiflora incarnata creams that help with motion sickness.

• Flavonoids: These plant-derived compounds help alleviate nausea and vomiting by reducing inflammation and modulating neurotransmitter activity in the brain, which can contribute to motion sickness symptoms.
• Alkaloids: Passiflorine, an alkaloid present in Passiflora incarnata, has been shown to possess sedative and anti-emetic properties, which can help alleviate the symptoms of motion sickness, including nausea and vomiting.
• Ferulic acid: Ferulic acid has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help mitigate the oxidative stress and inflammation associated with motion sickness, potentially reducing its severity.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of maypop used to make creams for motion sickness.

• Leaves: They are used due to their high content of flavonoids and alkaloids, which have been found to have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties.
• Fruits: They are used because they contain a high concentration of passifloric acid, which has been shown to have a calming effect on the nervous system.
• Roots: They are used due to their rich content of flavonoids and other bioactive compounds, which have been found to have a sedative effect and help alleviate nausea and vomiting.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maypop for motion sickness.

1. Dry 500 grams of passiflora incarnata flowers in a low-temperature oven at 50 degrees celsius for 2 hours.
2. Grind the dried flowers into a fine powder using a coffee grinder for 30 seconds.
3. Mix 200 grams of the powdered passiflora incarnata flowers with 100 grams of beeswax and 100 grams of coconut oil in a double boiler.
4. Heat the mixture in the double boiler over low heat for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reaches 70 degrees celsius.
5. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into a clean container and let it cool to room temperature before using.

9. Cymbopogon citratus

Cymbopogon citratus, also known as lemongrass, creams helps with motion sickness because of its calming and soothing properties.

The essential oils present in lemongrass, such as citral and geraniol, have natural anti-inflammatory and antiseptic effects that can help alleviate nausea and dizziness. By applying lemongrass creams to the skin, the body absorbs these beneficial compounds, which can help regulate digestion and reduce stress, ultimately providing relief from motion sickness symptoms.

This natural remedy offers a gentle and non-invasive approach to managing motion sickness.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cymbopogon citratus creams that help with motion sickness.

• Citronella oil terpenes: Citronella oil terpenes help alleviate motion sickness by reducing nausea and vomiting due to their calming and sedative properties.
• Geranial: Geranial exhibits anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which can help reduce the physical discomfort associated with motion sickness, such as headaches and muscle aches.
• Limonene: Limonene has been shown to have anti-emetic properties, helping to prevent and alleviate nausea and vomiting caused by motion sickness.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of lemongrass used to make creams for motion sickness.

• Leaves: Used due to their high content of citronella oil, which helps to reduce nausea and vomiting associated with motion sickness.
• Rhyzomes: Utilized for their oil content, which is extracted to create a natural remedy for motion sickness.
• Stems: Employed for their essential oil, which contains compounds that may help alleviate symptoms of motion sickness.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemongrass for motion sickness.

1. Harvest cymbopogon citratus grass when it is in full bloom to obtain high quality essential oil.
2. Dry the cymbopogon citratus grass in a well-ventilated area for 7 to 10 days to reduce moisture.
3. Distill the dried cymbopogon citratus grass using a steam distillation apparatus to extract essential oil.
4. Mix 20 grams of the extracted essential oil with 100 grams of beeswax and 100 grams of shea butter.
5. Heat the mixture at 160 degrees fahrenheit for 30 minutes to create a smooth and even cream texture.

10. Echinacea angustifolia

Echinacea angustifolia, also known as Kansas coneflower, creams helps with motion sickness because of its natural anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties.

The cream's active ingredients, including alkylamides and polysaccharides, work to relax muscles and reduce nausea. By reducing muscle spasms and inflammation in the stomach, Echinacea angustifolia creams alleviate symptoms associated with motion sickness, such as dizziness and vomiting.

This natural remedy provides a soothing and calming effect, helping to alleviate discomfort and promote a sense of well-being during travel.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea angustifolia creams that help with motion sickness.

• Iridoid glycosides: These compounds may help alleviate motion sickness by acting on the gastrointestinal system and reducing nausea and vomiting.
• Triterpenoids: Triterpenoids have anti-inflammatory properties and may help mitigate the inflammation and oxidative stress associated with motion sickness.
• Phenylethanoid glycosides: These compounds may have a calming effect on the nervous system, which could help reduce anxiety and alleviate symptoms of motion sickness.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of kansas coneflower used to make creams for motion sickness.

• Roots: They are used due to their high concentration of compounds that help alleviate nausea and vomiting associated with motion sickness.
• Buds: They are used for their anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce discomfort and alleviate symptoms of motion sickness.
• Seeds: They are used due to their ability to help regulate nausea and vomiting, providing relief from motion sickness symptoms.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kansas coneflower for motion sickness.

1. Extract the roots of echinacea angustifolia using a solvent like ethanol or glycerin in a ratio of 1:1.
2. Combine the extracted echinacea angustifolia with a base oil like coconut oil or shea butter in a 10:1 ratio.
3. Heat the mixture in a double boiler or a heat-resistant bowl set over a pot of simmering water for 30 minutes.
4. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container and discard the solids.
5. Add a preservative like phenonip or potassium sorbate to the mixture to extend its shelf life and stir well.

What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for motion sickness?

The best combination of herbal creams that help with motion sickness is Peppermint and Ginger.

Peppermint cream can aid in reducing nausea and vomiting, while Ginger cream is known for its natural anti-inflammatory properties and ability to stabilize the digestive system. When applied topically, these creams can help alleviate symptoms associated with motion sickness, such as dizziness and disorientation.

Together, they provide a soothing and calming effect, making them an effective and natural remedy for motion sickness relief.

What ailments similar to motion sickness are treated with herbal creams?

Ailments similar to motion sickness that are treated with herbal creams are anxiety, stress, and restlessness.

Herbal creams containing ingredients like lavender, chamomile, and valerian root can help alleviate symptoms of these conditions by promoting relaxation and reducing tension.

These herbs have a calming effect on the nervous system, which can be particularly beneficial for individuals who experience motion sickness or similar symptoms due to travel, public speaking, or other stressful situations.