10 Best Herbal Decoctions For Nausea

Herbal decoctions for nausea are a natural and effective way to alleviate symptoms of nausea, vomiting, and digestive discomfort.

By steeping herbs in hot water, these decoctions release beneficial compounds that soothe the stomach and calm the nerves. Examples include ginger decoction, peppermint infusion, and chamomile tea, which have been shown to reduce nausea and vomiting in patients undergoing chemotherapy or experiencing morning sickness during pregnancy.

For many individuals, these herbal remedies improve their quality of life by allowing them to eat normally, sleep better, and manage symptoms with minimal side effects.

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

1. Zingiber officinale

Ginger decoctions helps with nausea because of its unique composition that targets the underlying causes of queasiness.

The bioactive compounds in ginger, such as gingerols and shogaols, have natural anti-inflammatory properties that soothe the stomach lining and reduce inflammation. Additionally, ginger's natural digestive enzymes stimulate digestion and absorption, reducing symptoms of indigestion and discomfort.

As a result, herbal ginger decoctions can effectively alleviate nausea by calming the stomach and promoting healthy digestion.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Gingerols: These are a class of terpenoid compounds found in ginger, particularly 6-gingerol and 8-gingerol. They help reduce nausea by inhibiting the activity of serotonin receptors in the brain and stomach, which are involved in nausea and vomiting.
• Shogaols: Shogaols are a type of sesquiterpene found in ginger, particularly 6-shogaol. They have anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce nausea by inhibiting the release of pro-inflammatory chemicals in the stomach and intestines.
• Curcumin: While curcumin is more commonly associated with Turmeric (Curcuma longa), small amounts are also found in ginger. It has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help reduce nausea by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the stomach and intestines.

Parts Used

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

• Buds: The buds of the plant are also used to make decoctions for nausea, as they contain a higher concentration of volatile oils and active compounds than the mature rhizomes.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh zingiber officinale rhizomes for decoction preparation in early morning or late afternoon.
2. Wash the rhizomes thoroughly with filtered water to remove dirt and debris from the surface.
3. Slice the rhizomes into thin pieces using a sharp knife to increase surface area.
4. Combine 2-3 grams of sliced zingiber officinale with 500ml of boiling water in a saucepan.
5. Simmer the mixture for 10-15 minutes over low heat to allow for active compound extraction.

2. Mentha x piperita

Peppermint decoctions helps with nausea because of its unique ability to calm the digestive system and reduce inflammation in the stomach.

The menthol content in peppermint helps to relax the muscles in the gut, which can become spasmodic during episodes of nausea. Additionally, peppermint's natural anti-inflammatory properties can help to soothe an upset stomach and alleviate symptoms such as bloating and discomfort.

By reducing inflammation and relaxing digestive muscles, peppermint decoctions provide fast-acting relief from nausea and vomiting.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Menthol: Menthol helps alleviate nausea by its local anesthetic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can reduce stomach discomfort and ease digestive issues.
• Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid, a polyphenolic compound, has been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the stomach, alleviating nausea.
• Piperitone: Piperitone, a terpene, has been found to have a sedative effect on the gastrointestinal tract, which can help reduce nausea and vomiting by calming the stomach muscles.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: They are the most commonly used part due to their high menthol content, which helps to calm the stomach and alleviate nausea.
• Stems: The stems of Mentha x piperita contain a higher concentration of menthol than the leaves, making them effective for treating nausea and indigestion.
• Buds: The buds of the plant are also used to make decoctions for nausea, as they contain a high concentration of menthol and other volatile oils that help to soothe the stomach.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Gather 1 cup of fresh mentha x piperita leaves and 2 cups of water for the decoction.
2. Chop the gathered mentha x piperita leaves into smaller pieces to increase their surface area.
3. Combine the chopped mentha x piperita leaves with the prepared water in a saucepan.
4. Heat the mixture over medium heat for 5 minutes then reduce the heat to low.
5. Strain the decoction and discard the solids after 10 minutes of steeping in the saucepan.

3. Cymbopogon citratus

Lemongrass decoctions helps with nausea because of its natural antispasmodic properties, which relax the muscles in the stomach and intestines.

The citral oil present in lemongrass has been shown to have a calming effect on the digestive system, reducing inflammation and spasms that can cause nausea and discomfort.

Additionally, lemongrass has a gentle, soothing quality that can help ease queasiness and promote digestion, making it a natural remedy for alleviating nausea symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cymbopogon citratus decoctions that help with nausea.

• Citral: Citral, a terpene found in Cymbopogon citratus, helps with nausea by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and anti-emetic properties, reducing gastrointestinal discomfort and alleviating nausea symptoms.
• Geraniol: Geraniol, a monoterpene alcohol present in Cymbopogon citratus, helps with nausea by displaying sedative and anti-emetic effects, which can help calm the gastrointestinal system and reduce nausea.
• Limonene: Limonene, a terpene found in Cymbopogon citratus, helps with nausea by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and anti-emetic properties, which can help reduce gastrointestinal inflammation and alleviate nausea symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of lemongrass used to make decoctions for nausea.

• Rhyzomes: They are rich in essential oils, particularly limonene and beta-pinene, which have anti-inflammatory and digestive properties that help alleviate nausea.
• Leaves: The leaves of Cymbopogon citratus contain oils and compounds that have a calming effect on the stomach, reducing nausea and promoting digestion.
• Stems: The stems of the plant also contain essential oils that help to soothe digestive issues, including nausea, due to their anti-inflammatory and carminative properties.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 20-30 stems of cymbopogon citratus and cut them into 2-inch pieces.
2. Dry the cut stems in a warm place or using a dehydrator for 2-3 days.
3. Measure 1 tablespoon of dried cymbopogon citratus and add it to 1 liter of boiling water.
4. Simmer the mixture for 10-15 minutes or until the liquid is reduced slightly.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve to remove the solids.

4. Carica papaya

Papaya decoctions helps with nausea because they contain a unique combination of bioactive compounds, including alkaloids, terpenoids, and saponins.

These compounds work synergistically to reduce nausea symptoms by relaxing the digestive tract muscles, calming the nervous system, and inhibiting the release of stomach acid. The natural anti-inflammatory properties also help to soothe the gut lining, reducing irritation and discomfort associated with nausea.

As a result, papaya decoctions provide effective relief from morning sickness, motion sickness, and other types of nausea.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Carica papaya decoctions that help with nausea.

• Caricaine: This alkaloid has been found to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the digestive tract and alleviate nausea.
• Carotenoids: Carotenoids, such as beta-carotene, have antioxidant properties that can help protect the digestive tract from oxidative stress and inflammation, thereby reducing nausea.
• Furanocoumarins: Furanocoumarins, such as bergapten, have anti-inflammatory and spasmolytic properties, which can help relax the muscles in the digestive tract and alleviate nausea.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of papaya used to make decoctions for nausea.

• Fruits: They are used due to their high content of papain, an enzyme that helps in digestion and alleviates nausea.
• Leaves: They are used due to their antispasmodic properties, which help in relieving nausea and other digestive issues.
• Seeds: They are used due to their antiflatulent properties, which help in reducing gas and alleviating nausea.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic papaya for nausea.

1. Harvest 200 grams of fresh carica papaya leaves and 100 grams of fresh carica papaya roots.
2. Chop the leaves and roots into small pieces to increase the surface area for infusion.
3. Combine the chopped leaves and roots with 500 milliliters of boiling water in a large pot.
4. Simmer the mixture for 10 to 15 minutes or until the liquid has reduced by half.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass container.

5. Ginkgo biloba

Maidenhair tree decoctions helps with nausea because of its unique composition of bioactive compounds.

The leaves of the maidenhair tree contain flavonoids, phenolic acids, and saponins, which have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. When consumed as a decoction, these compounds work together to soothe the digestive tract, reducing inflammation and alleviating nausea symptoms.

Additionally, the gentle and non-invasive nature of the decoction allows for easy absorption, making it an effective natural remedy for individuals experiencing mild to moderate nausea.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Flavonoids: These compounds, particularly quercetin and kaempferol, help alleviate nausea by exerting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can reduce inflammation and oxidative stress that may contribute to nausea.
• Bilobalide: This sesquiterpene lactone has anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties, which can help alleviate nausea by reducing inflammation and protecting the nervous system, particularly the vagus nerve, which is often involved in nausea.
• Ginkgolides: These sesquiterpene lactones have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help alleviate nausea by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, and also by modulating the activity of neurotransmitters that regulate nausea.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: The leaves of the Ginkgo biloba plant are used to make decoctions for nausea because they contain flavonoids and terpenoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help alleviate nausea.
• Seeds: The seeds of the Ginkgo biloba plant are used to make decoctions for nausea because they have a sedative effect and help regulate digestive functions, which can help alleviate nausea.
• Leaves: The leaves of the Ginkgo biloba plant are also used to make decoctions for nausea because they have a calming effect on the digestive system and help alleviate nausea caused by stress and anxiety.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 2-3 pounds of fresh ginkgo biloba leaves or 1 pound of dried leaves.
2. Clean the leaves thoroughly to remove dirt and debris.
3. Chop the leaves into small pieces using a sharp knife to increase surface area.
4. Steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried leaves or 4-6 teaspoons of fresh leaves in 1 quart of boiling water for 10-15 minutes.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.

6. Lavandula angustifolia

English lavender decoctions helps with nausea because of its calming and soothing properties, which can help to ease digestive discomfort.

The herbal remedy contains compounds like linalool and linalyl acetate that have been shown to reduce inflammation and spasms in the stomach, alleviating symptoms of nausea and vomiting.

Additionally, the calming effects of lavender can also help to reduce anxiety and stress, which are often underlying causes of nausea.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Linalool: It acts as an antispasmodic and anxiolytic, helping to relax the stomach muscles and reduce feelings of anxiety that can contribute to nausea.
• Linalyl acetate: This terpene has anti-inflammatory and sedative properties, which can help to soothe the stomach and reduce nausea-inducing inflammation.
• Lavandulol: It exhibits anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effects, which can help to alleviate stomach cramps and discomfort associated with nausea.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: They are commonly used due to their calming and anti-inflammatory properties, which help alleviate nausea.
• Flowers: They are widely used for their soothing effects and their ability to ease digestive issues, including nausea.
• Roots: They are often used due to their ability to calm the digestive system and relieve nausea, as well as their antioxidant properties.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Gather 1 ounce of dried lavandula angustifolia flowers and store in an airtight container for future use.
2. Measure 1 teaspoon of dried lavandula angustifolia flowers and add to 8 ounces of boiling water.
3. Steep the mixture for 5 to 7 minutes or until the liquid has cooled to a comfortable temperature.
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 3 days before consuming.

7. Matricaria chamomilla

Chamomile decoctions helps with nausea because its soothing properties can calm an upset stomach and reduce inflammation in the digestive tract.

The apigenin present in chamomile binds to GABA receptors, promoting relaxation and reducing muscle spasms that can exacerbate nausea. Additionally, chamomile's anti-inflammatory compounds, such as flavonoids, can help alleviate irritation and discomfort in the digestive system, allowing the body to naturally digest food without discomfort or unease.

This natural remedy can provide quick relief from nausea and promote a sense of calm.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Apigenin: This flavonoid has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which help to reduce nausea by relaxing smooth muscle in the stomach and alleviating inflammation.
• Alpha-bisabolol: This sesquiterpene alcohol has anti-inflammatory and soothing effects, which help to reduce nausea by calming the stomach and reducing inflammation that may contribute to nausea.
• Luteolin: This flavonoid has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce nausea by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the stomach, and promoting healing of the gastrointestinal tract.

Parts Used

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

• Flowers: They are rich in apigenin, a flavonoid that has anti-inflammatory and sedative properties, which help to calm nausea.
• Leaves: They contain volatile oils and flavonoids that aid in soothing digestive issues and nausea.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 20-30 grams of dried matricaria chamomilla flowers at dawn or early morning when the dew is still present.
2. Rinse the harvested flowers gently with cold water to remove any dirt or debris from the surface.
3. Combine the rinsed flowers with 2 cups of cold water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let the mixture steep for 5-7 minutes to allow the active compounds to infuse.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container to remove the solids.

8. Foeniculum vulgare

Fennel decoctions helps with nausea because of its natural ability to relax the muscles in the digestive tract, reducing spasms and cramping that can contribute to nausea.

The anti-inflammatory properties of fennel also help soothe the stomach lining, calming irritation and discomfort that can lead to queasiness.

Additionally, fennel's carminative effects help to release trapped gas in the digestive system, further alleviating nausea and promoting overall digestive health.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Anethole: Anethole acts as an anti-inflammatory and has a sedative effect on the stomach, which helps alleviate nausea and vomiting.
• Ferulic acid: Ferulic acid has antioxidant properties that help reduce inflammation in the stomach and intestines, thereby alleviating nausea and vomiting caused by digestive issues.
• Trans-anethol: Trans-anethol exhibits a spasmolytic effect, which helps relax the muscles in the digestive tract and reduce the spasms that lead to nausea and vomiting.

Parts Used

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

• Seeds: They are rich in anethole, a compound that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and anti-emetic properties, helping to soothe nausea.
• Leaves: The leaves of Foeniculum vulgare are known for their carminative properties, which help to relieve gas and reduce nausea.
• Roots: The roots of the plant are used to make decoctions that are said to have anti-inflammatory and anti-spasmodic effects, which can help alleviate nausea and stomach discomfort.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 2-3 tablespoons of dried foeniculum vulgare leaves and stems from a clean source.
2. Grind the foeniculum vulgare into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle for 5 minutes.
3. Combine 2 teaspoons of the ground foeniculum vulgare with 8 ounces of boiling water in a saucepan.
4. Steep the mixture for 10-15 minutes or until the liquid has reduced slightly.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.

9. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Licorice decoctions helps with nausea because of its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.

The root of the licorice plant contains compounds like glycyrrhizin, which have been shown to reduce inflammation in the digestive tract and relieve symptoms of nausea. When consumed as a warm decoction, the sweet flavor and comforting aroma of licorice can also help to calm an upset stomach and alleviate feelings of queasiness.

Additionally, licorice's ability to soothe and protect the mucous membranes can help to reduce irritation and discomfort in the digestive system, making it a natural remedy for nausea relief.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Saponins: Saponins in Glycyrrhiza glabra decoctions help with nausea by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can soothe the stomach and reduce inflammation that may contribute to nausea.
• Glycyrrhizin: Glycyrrhizin, a triterpenoid saponin, helps with nausea by inhibiting the 11-beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase enzyme, which can reduce stress and anxiety that may cause nausea, and also by having anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe the stomach.
• Liquiritin and liquiritigenin: Liquiritin and liquiritigenin, two flavonoids present in Glycyrrhiza glabra decoctions, help with nausea by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the stomach, and by also acting as anti-emetic agents to directly reduce nausea.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: They are used due to their high content of glycyrrhizin, a compound that has anti-inflammatory and antacid properties, helping to soothe stomach issues.
• Barks: The barks of Glycyrrhiza glabra are used because they contain similar compounds to the roots, providing similar benefits for nausea and stomach discomfort.
• Leaves: The leaves are used for their anti-inflammatory and carminative properties, which can help alleviate nausea and reduce inflammation in the digestive tract.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Gather 30 grams of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots and clean them thoroughly with water.
2. Chop the cleaned roots into smaller pieces and place them in a large pot.
3. Add 1.5 liters of water to the pot and bring it to a boil over high heat for 5 minutes.
4. Reduce the heat to low and simmer the mixture for 30 minutes with occasional stirring.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.

10. Angelica sinensis

Dong quai decoctions helps with nausea because of its unique combination of bioactive compounds that work in harmony to soothe the digestive system.

The decoction's anti-inflammatory properties help reduce inflammation and irritation in the stomach and intestines, alleviating symptoms of nausea and vomiting. Additionally, dong quai's natural relaxants calm the nervous system, reducing anxiety and stress-related nausea triggers.

By regulating digestion and calming the body's physiological responses, dong quai decoctions provide effective relief from nausea and its accompanying discomfort.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Angelica sinensis decoctions that help with nausea.

• Ligustilide: A sesquiterpene lactone, ligustilide helps with nausea by inhibiting the release of serotonin and other neurotransmitters involved in nausea and vomiting.
• Butylphthalide: A sesquiterpene, butylphthalide has anti-emetic effects by blocking the action of serotonin on the central nervous system, which helps to alleviate nausea and vomiting.
• Coumarins: A type of phenolic compound, coumarins have anti-inflammatory and anti-emetic effects, helping to reduce nausea and vomiting by modulating the gut-brain axis.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of dong quai used to make decoctions for nausea.

• Roots: The roots of Angelica sinensis are the most commonly used parts for making decoctions due to their high concentration of bioactive compounds.
• Stems: The stems are used because they contain similar properties to the roots, making them a suitable alternative for some medicinal applications.
• Leaves: The leaves are occasionally used to make decoctions, although to a lesser extent, as they still contain some medicinal properties, albeit in smaller quantities.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dong quai for nausea.

1. Harvest 10-15 grams of dried angelica sinensis root by cutting it into smaller pieces for easier infusion.
2. Rinse the dried angelica sinensis root pieces with cold water to remove impurities for a clean infusion.
3. Boil 500 milliliters of water in a saucepan over high heat for 5-10 minutes.
4. Steep the angelica sinensis root pieces in the boiling water for 15-20 minutes to release their active compounds.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a separate container to remove the solids.

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

The best combination of herbal decoctions that help with nausea is a blend of ginger, peppermint, and licorice root.

Ginger has natural anti-inflammatory properties that soothe the stomach, while peppermint oil calms the digestive system and reduces cramping. Licorice root, rich in glycyrrhizin, helps balance gut bacteria and reduces inflammation. Combining these three decoctions in a warm tea or infusion can provide quick relief from nausea and help alleviate digestive discomfort.

This blend can be particularly beneficial during periods of illness or stress.

What ailments similar to nausea are treated with herbal decoctions?

Ailments similar to nausea/decoctions.html">nausea/decoctions.html">nausea that are treated with herbal decoctions are digestive issues such as dyspepsia, indigestion, and bloating.

Herbal remedies like ginger, peppermint, and chamomile are commonly used to soothe stomach discomfort and alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Additionally, herbal decoctions may be used to treat menstrual cramps, migraines, and stress-related anxiety, which can also manifest as nausea-like symptoms.