How to cure motion sickness: Travel without nausea, vomiting with these hacks and home remedies

Motion sickness: While air conditioning is often appealing during road trips, if you're prone to nausea, consider rolling down the windows to invite a refreshing breeze (Image: Canva)

It's that time of the year when you get busy giving shape to what you've been looking forward to all along: your annual holiday plans. You're looking for the best travel deals, places to stay and the things you and your family will be busy doing at your favourite destination. There's just one hitch: you feel queasy and dizzy when you are on the move, especially when you are being driven around. Motion sickness is the biggest dampener when it comes to driving holidays.

It is a common problem when you feel sick due to movement, like when you're on a moving vehicle. It can cause various symptoms, like an upset stomach or feeling dizzy. Motion sickness happens when your body gets mixed signals from your senses.

The good news is that you can have a happy journey without the unpleasant symptoms of motion sickness. In order to make your travels smoother and more enjoyable, try some of these easy remedies and techniques:

Get help from herbs and spices: Several herbs and spices possess natural anti-nausea properties that help combat motion sickness. Ginger tea, candies, infused water, or capsules are convenient options. Additionally, you could use ajwain, which aids digestion and reduces nausea; tulsi, which soothes an upset stomach; cardamom, to work against nausea and vomiting; fennel seeds, to aid digestion; and amla, to boost your immunity.

Try acupressure bands: These modest yet effective bands apply gentle pressure to specific acupressure points, subtly taming the turmoil within. Several travellers swear by these bands.

Use aromatic peppermint: From fresh mint leaves to oil, inhaling peppermint in any form can help you fight motion sickness. Just close your eyes and inhale the scent. Its soothing aroma has a calming effect on your stomach and can help you get rid of nausea. You can also try drinking peppermint tea or chewing candies while on the move.

Practice deep breathing: When you feel motion sickness while travelling, try taking deep, intentional breaths as you soak in the scenic beauty around you. Deep breathing, a simple yet powerful technique, can help you relax and reduce motion sickness symptoms. By oxygenating your body and calming your nerves, you can ensure a happier trip.

Distraction is the key: Choose anything from your favourite music, an engaging audiobook, or a fun game. Distraction could be your best friend when it comes to combating motion sickness. By focusing your mind on something other than the movement, you'll be able to enjoy your journey.

Keep it fresh: While air conditioning is often appealing during road trips, if you're prone to nausea, consider rolling down the windows to invite a refreshing breeze. Adequate ventilation can significantly help by preventing the buildup of stale air, a potential trigger for motion sickness.

Drink sufficient water: Always carry fresh water when travelling. It helps to keep you hydrated throughout your journey. Remember that dehydration can worsen motion sickness, so drink plenty of water before and during your trip.

Eat light and nutritious food: Stay away if heavy meals and rich food when you travel. Heavy, greasy, or spicy foods can be your motion sickness nemesis. Opt for light, easily digestible meals instead. This will keep your stomach settled and content.