10 Best Herbal Decoctions For Motion Sickness

Herbal decoctions for motion sickness are natural remedies made by steeping herbs in hot water to create a soothing, gentle brew.

These decoctions help alleviate symptoms of motion sickness such as dizziness, nausea, and vomiting by calming the stomach and reducing inflammation. Examples include peppermint, ginger, and lemon balm decoctions, which can be consumed before or during travel to alleviate discomfort.

By using herbal decoctions, individuals with motion sickness can enjoy activities like boating, flying, or road trips without worrying about debilitating symptoms, greatly improving their quality of life.

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

1. Mentha x piperita

Peppermint decoctions helps with motion sickness because it has a natural calming effect on the stomach, reducing nausea and vomiting symptoms.

The menthol content in peppermint also has anti-inflammatory properties that help to ease digestive discomfort caused by motion. Additionally, peppermint's soothing aroma can help to calm the mind and body, further alleviating feelings of queasiness.

As a result, herbal peppermint decoctions have been shown to be an effective natural remedy for alleviating the symptoms of motion sickness, providing relief from discomfort during travel or other activities that trigger nausea.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Menthofuran: Menthofuran is a monoterpene ketone that contributes to the anti-emetic properties of peppermint, helping alleviate nausea and vomiting associated with motion sickness.
• Menthol: Menthol is a monoterpene alcohol that has a cooling effect on the digestive system, which may help reduce nausea and stomach discomfort caused by motion sickness.
• Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid is a polyphenolic compound that exhibits antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce the severity of motion sickness symptoms by protecting the body from oxidative stress and inflammation.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: The leaves are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of menthol, which is known for its anti-inflammatory and digestive properties that can help alleviate motion sickness symptoms.
• Rhyzomes: The rhizomes contain menthol and other essential oils that can help to calm the stomach and reduce nausea associated with motion sickness.
• Stems: The stems also contain menthol and other compounds that can help to ease digestive discomfort and reduce the symptoms of motion sickness.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh mentha x piperita leaves and flowers in the morning when they are at their highest oil content.
2. Cut the harvested mentha x piperita into small pieces and weigh out 20-30 grams for a standard decoction.
3. Combine the cut mentha x piperita with 1 liter of water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let the mixture steep for 5-10 minutes to allow the active compounds to extract.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container and discard the solids.

2. Zingiber officinale

Ginger decoctions helps with motion sickness because its natural compounds, such as gingerol and shogaol, have potent anti-inflammatory and digestive properties.

When consumed before or during travel, these compounds work to calm the stomach and alleviate nausea, dizziness, and vomiting caused by motion sickness.

Additionally, ginger's natural sedative effects help regulate blood flow and reduce feelings of queasiness, providing quick relief from discomfort and promoting a smoother journey.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Gingerols: These iridoid compounds help with motion sickness by inhibiting the serotonin receptors in the brain, which are responsible for nausea and vomiting associated with motion sickness.
• Shogaols: These ginger-derived compounds help with motion sickness by inhibiting the prostaglandins in the stomach, which contribute to nausea and vomiting, and also by stimulating the digestive system to improve gut motility.
• Zingibain: This proteolytic enzyme helps with motion sickness by breaking down the proteins in the digestive system that can contribute to nausea and vomiting, and also by improving blood flow and reducing inflammation in the gut.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: The roots of ginger are also used to make decoctions for motion sickness, as they contain similar compounds to the rhizome and are often used interchangeably.
• Leaves: Although less common, the leaves of ginger are occasionally used to make decoctions for motion sickness, possibly due to their reported anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 50-100 grams of fresh zingiber officinale rhizomes for decoction preparation.
2. Wash the harvested rhizomes under cold running water for 5 minutes to remove dirt.
3. Peel the washed rhizomes using a vegetable peeler to expose their inner flesh.
4. Chop the peeled rhizomes into small pieces weighing about 20-30 grams per serving.
5. Simmer the chopped rhizomes in 1 liter of boiling water for 10-15 minutes to create decoction.

3. Lavandula angustifolia

English lavender decoctions helps with motion sickness because it has a calming effect on the body's natural response to motion stimuli.

The sweet, floral scent of lavender helps to reduce feelings of anxiety and unease that can exacerbate motion sickness symptoms.

Additionally, the soothing properties of lavender have been shown to ease digestive discomfort and relieve nausea associated with motion sickness, making it a popular remedy for those prone to sea or air travel sickness.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Linalool: This terpene helps with motion sickness by reducing anxiety and stress responses, which can exacerbate nausea and dizziness associated with motion sickness.
• Linalyl acetate: This terpene has sedative and anti-anxiety effects, which can help alleviate the symptoms of motion sickness, such as nausea, vomiting, and dizziness.
• Apigenin: This flavonoid has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which can help alleviate the stomach cramps and nausea associated with motion sickness.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: They are used due to their calming and sedative properties, which help alleviate symptoms of motion sickness.
• Flowers: They are used due to their calming and anti-anxiety effects, which can help reduce the severity of motion sickness.
• Stems: They are used due to their mild sedative properties, which can help soothe the stomach and reduce nausea associated with motion sickness.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 20-30 fresh lavandula angustifolia flowers at peak bloom time and dry them in a warm area for 2 weeks.
2. Crush 2 tablespoons of dried flowers into fine powder using a mortar and pestle to release essential oils.
3. Combine the powdered flowers with 1 cup of boiling water in a heat-resistant container to create a decoction.
4. Steep the mixture for 5-7 minutes to allow the active compounds to infuse into the water.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container to remove the solids.

4. Matricaria chamomilla

Chamomile decoctions helps with motion sickness because of its calming and soothing properties.

The apigenin and luteolin flavonoids present in chamomile interact with GABA receptors in the brain, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety. This tranquilizing effect helps alleviate nausea and vomiting associated with motion sickness. Additionally, chamomile's anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, further alleviating symptoms.

By sipping on a warm herbal decoction of chamomile tea, individuals may find relief from the discomforts of motion sickness, allowing for a more enjoyable travel experience.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Apigenin: A flavonoid that acts as a natural antihistamine, which helps to alleviate the symptoms of motion sickness, such as nausea, dizziness, and vomiting, by blocking the action of histamine on the brain.
• Linalool: A terpene that has a sedative effect, helping to reduce anxiety and stress associated with motion sickness, which can exacerbate symptoms.
• Apigenin-7-o-glucoside: A glycoside form of apigenin that is more easily absorbed by the body, which also has antihistamine and antispasmodic properties, helping to alleviate motion sickness symptoms.

Parts Used

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

• Flowers: Used for their anti-inflammatory and calming properties, which help alleviate symptoms of motion sickness.
• Seeds: Contain apigenin, an anti-inflammatory compound that may help reduce nausea and dizziness associated with motion sickness.
• Leaves: May be used to make decoctions that help calm the digestive system and alleviate symptoms of motion sickness.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1 part of dried flowers in a clean and dry environment to ensure quality.
2. Grind 2-4 grams of the dried flowers into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
3. Combine 200 milliliters of boiling water with 2-4 grams of the ground flowers in a heat-resistant glass cup.
4. Steep the mixture for 5-7 minutes and then strain it using a piece of cheesecloth.
5. Store the cooled decoction in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before consumption.

5. Tanacetum parthenium

Feverfew decoctions helps with motion sickness because of its ability to relax the muscles, calm the stomach, and reduce inflammation in the body.

The natural compounds present in feverfew, such as parthenolide, have been shown to exhibit anti-nausea properties that help alleviate symptoms associated with motion sickness.

By soothing the digestive system and reducing feelings of queasiness, feverfew decoctions can provide quick relief from nausea, dizziness, and headaches commonly experienced during travel or other activities that cause motion sickness.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Cnicin: This sesquiterpene lactone has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which can help alleviate the nausea and vomiting associated with motion sickness.
• Parthenolide: This sesquiterpene lactone has been found to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which can help reduce the severity of motion sickness symptoms, such as dizziness and nausea.
• Tanacetol: As a GABA receptor antagonist, tanacetol can help stabilize the balance and equilibrium systems, which can help alleviate the symptoms of motion sickness, such as dizziness and vertigo.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: They are used due to their sedative and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate nausea and dizziness associated with motion sickness.
• Roots: They are used because of their ability to calm the nervous system and reduce anxiety, which can contribute to motion sickness.
• Flowers: They are used for their calming effects and to help regulate digestive issues, which can be triggered by motion sickness.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 20-30 grams of dried tanacetum parthenium flowers from a trusted source for medicinal use.
2. Combine the dried flowers with 500 milliliters of boiling water in a heat-resistant container.
3. Steep the mixture for 5-7 minutes to allow the active compounds to infuse into the water.
4. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
5. Store the cooled decoction in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before consumption.

6. Taraxacum officinale

Dandelion decoctions helps with motion sickness because they contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that help to reduce nausea and vomiting.

The bitter compounds in dandelion also stimulate digestion and alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, which are often triggered by motion sickness. Additionally, dandelion's diuretic properties can help to eliminate excess fluids and electrolytes that can contribute to feelings of nausea and dizziness.

By addressing these underlying physiological imbalances, dandelion decoctions may provide relief from the distressing symptoms of motion sickness.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Luteolin: This flavonoid may help alleviate motion sickness by acting as an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant, reducing the severity of nausea and vomiting associated with motion sickness.
• Taraxasterol: This triterpene saponin could contribute to the anti-emetic (vomiting-preventing) effects of dandelion decoctions by modulating the gut-brain axis and reducing inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract.
• Iridoid glycosides: These iridoid glycosides may exhibit anti-emetic properties by interacting with opioid receptors in the gut, thereby reducing nausea and vomiting.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: They contain taraxasterol, a compound that may help alleviate motion sickness symptoms.
• Leaves: They contain flavonoids, which may contribute to their potential anti-nausea properties.
• Flowers: They contain sesquiterpene lactones, which may have a beneficial effect on motion sickness.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest taraxacum officinale roots and leaves from a clean and organic environment in late spring or early summer.
2. Dry the harvested taraxacum officinale roots and leaves in a shaded area for 1 to 2 weeks.
3. Combine 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried taraxacum officinale roots and 2 to 3 teaspoons of dried taraxacum officinale leaves.
4. Boil 1 liter of water and steep the dried taraxacum officinale mixture for 5 to 10 minutes in a clean tea infuser.
5. Strain the taraxacum officinale decoction and let it cool for 30 minutes before consumption.

7. Melissa officinalis

Lemon balm decoctions helps with motion sickness because it contains compounds that have a calming effect on the digestive system, reducing nausea and vomiting associated with travel.

The herbal infusion also helps to soothe the stomach and alleviate symptoms of vertigo and dizziness caused by motion.

Additionally, lemon balm's natural sedative properties can help to reduce anxiety and stress, further contributing to its effectiveness in alleviating the discomforts of motion sickness.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound helps to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain, which are thought to contribute to motion sickness symptoms.
• Limonene: A terpene found in lemon balm, limonene has been shown to have a calming effect on the nervous system, which can help alleviate nausea and vomiting associated with motion sickness.
• Glycosides: These compounds have been found to have a sedative effect on the central nervous system, which can help reduce the anxiety and stress that often exacerbate motion sickness.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of lemon balm used to make decoctions for motion sickness.

• Leaves: They are rich in essential oils, particularly linalool and linalyl acetate, which have anti-inflammatory and calming properties that help alleviate motion sickness symptoms.
• Flowers: The flowers contain similar essential oils as the leaves, making them effective in soothing nausea and reducing motion sickness symptoms.
• Roots: The roots of Melissa officinalis are also used to make decoctions for motion sickness, as they contain a higher concentration of essential oils compared to the leaves and flowers, which can provide a more potent remedy.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest melissa officinalis leaves in the morning after the dew has evaporated to ensure freshness.
2. Dry the leaves in a single layer at room temperature for 7 days or by machine for 2 hours.
3. Chop 2-3 grams of dried melissa officinalis leaves into small pieces to increase surface area.
4. Steep the chopped leaves in 150 milliliters of boiling water for 5-7 minutes to extract active compounds.
5. Strain the decoction and discard the solids to create a clear herbal infusion ready for consumption.

8. Passiflora incarnata

Maypop decoctions helps with motion sickness because it contains a unique combination of flavonoids, phenolic acids, and alkaloids that work together to alleviate symptoms.

The decoction's calming properties help to reduce feelings of nausea and dizziness, while its anti-inflammatory compounds may soothe stomach muscles and ease queasiness.

Additionally, maypop's natural antihistamines can counteract the release of histamine in response to motion stimuli, further reducing discomfort and promoting a sense of relaxation.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Isovitexin: Isovitexin, a flavonoid glycoside, helps alleviate motion sickness by exerting anticholinesterase activity, which counteracts the effects of acetylcholine that can exacerbate nausea and vomiting.
• Hyperoside: Hyperoside, a flavonoid glycoside, is thought to help with motion sickness by inhibiting the release of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and acetylcholine, which play a role in the development of nausea and vomiting.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids, such as vitexin and isovitexin, help alleviate motion sickness by reducing anxiety and stress through their antioxidant properties and their ability to modulate the central nervous system.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: The roots of Passiflora incarnata are commonly used to make decoctions for motion sickness because they contain the highest concentration of passionflower's medicinal compounds.
• Leaves: The leaves of Passiflora incarnata are used in decoctions for motion sickness due to their ability to soothe the nervous system and reduce anxiety.
• Fruits: The fruits of Passiflora incarnata, specifically the juice extracted from them, is used to make decoctions for motion sickness because it contains a higher concentration of flavonoids and other bioactive compounds compared to other parts of the plant.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 25-50 grams of fresh or dried plant material early in the morning.
2. Rinse the plant material with water to remove dirt and debris.
3. Combine the plant material with 500 milliliters of water in a saucepan.
4. Simmer the mixture over low heat for 5-7 minutes or until the liquid reduces slightly.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.

9. Ginkgo biloba

Maidenhair tree decoctions helps with motion sickness because it contains flavonoids, a type of antioxidant that has been shown to stabilize blood vessels and reduce inflammation.

This can help alleviate symptoms of motion sickness such as dizziness, nausea, and stomach discomfort. The decoction's anti-inflammatory properties also help to soothe the digestive system, reducing queasiness and vomiting associated with motion sickness.

Additionally, its calming effects can help to reduce anxiety and stress related to travel, making it a natural remedy for those prone to motion sickness.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Flavonoids: These plant compounds help alleviate motion sickness by improving blood flow to the inner ear and brain, reducing the severity of symptoms like dizziness and nausea.
• Bilobalide: This triterpene derivative may help reduce the incidence of motion sickness by inhibiting the release of neurotransmitters involved in nausea and vomiting, such as serotonin and acetylcholine.
• Quercetin: This flavonoid has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may contribute to its ability to alleviate motion sickness by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the body.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: The leaves are rich in flavonoids, terpenoids, and other compounds that help alleviate symptoms of motion sickness.
• Seeds: The seeds are used to create a decoction that may help alleviate dizziness and nausea associated with motion sickness.
• Buds: The buds are used in some traditional Chinese medicine preparations to help alleviate motion sickness symptoms.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 20-30 ginkgo biloba leaves from a mature tree and clean them thoroughly with water.
2. Dry the leaves in a single layer at room temperature for 7-10 days or less.
3. Measure 2-3 grams of dried ginkgo biloba leaves per 250 milliliters of water for decoction.
4. Combine the measured leaves with water in a saucepan and bring to a boil over medium heat.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-60 minutes then strain the decoction through a cheesecloth.

10. Valeriana officinalis

Valerian decoctions helps with motion sickness because its unique blend of active compounds, particularly valepotriates and isovaleric acid, work together to calm the digestive system and alleviate nausea.

The sedative properties of valerian root also help to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation, which can be disrupted by the sensory conflicts associated with motion sickness.

By soothing the stomach and calming the mind, herbal valerian decoctions provide a natural remedy for alleviating the uncomfortable symptoms of motion sickness.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Valerenic acid: This terpenoid compound helps alleviate motion sickness by interacting with the GABA receptors in the brain, which can help reduce anxiety and nausea.
• Valeranone: As a valerenic acid derivative, valeranone has been shown to have sedative properties, which can help reduce the symptoms of motion sickness, such as dizziness and nausea.
• Isovaleric acid: This organic acid has been found to have a sedative effect and may help reduce the severity of motion sickness symptoms by acting on the central nervous system.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: The roots of Valeriana officinalis are rich in valerenic acid, a compound that has been shown to have sedative and anti-anxiety properties, helping to alleviate the symptoms of motion sickness.
• Leaves: The leaves of Valeriana officinalis contain valerenic acid and other compounds that contribute to its calming effects, making it a useful ingredient in decoctions to treat motion sickness.
• Flowers: The flowers of Valeriana officinalis have a soothing effect, which helps to reduce anxiety and alleviate the nausea associated with motion sickness.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest the roots of valeriana officinalis in the spring or fall for optimal potency and freshness.
2. Dry the harvested roots in a single layer at room temperature for 7 to 10 days.
3. Chop the dried roots into small pieces and combine 5 to 10 grams with 1 liter of water in a saucepan.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce the heat to a simmer for 10 to 15 minutes.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass container.

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

The best combination of herbal decoctions that help with motion sickness is ginger and peppermint.

Ginger has natural anti-inflammatory properties that alleviate nausea and vomiting, while peppermint soothes the digestive system and reduces dizziness. Adding a small amount of lavender and chamomile can further calm the mind and body, reducing anxiety and stress that often accompany motion sickness.

This blend can be consumed as a tea or decoction to provide relief from motion sickness symptoms.

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

Ailments similar to motion sickness that are treated with herbal decoctions are nausea, vertigo, and seasickness.

Ginger (Zingiber officinale) is a popular herb used to alleviate these symptoms due to its natural anti-inflammatory properties.

Other herbs like peppermint (Mentha piperita), chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla), and lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) are also commonly used in decoctions to soothe the digestive system and calm the nervous system, providing relief from these unpleasant symptoms.