Motion Sickness
Over the counter other relief options
In addition to medications, several non-medicated options can help control motion sickness!
They act by targeting different pathways involved in nausea and balance. These methods work by stabilizing the inner ear, reducing sensory mismatch, or calming the stomach, making them useful alone or alongside medications for added relief. Wrist acupressure bands, ginger supplements, proper ventilation, and focusing on the horizon can also help reduce symptoms.
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Acupressure Wristbands (Sea-Band®)
These wristbands apply steady pressure to the P6 (Neiguan) acupressure point on the inner wrist, a spot shown in some clinical studies to help reduce nausea and vomiting by influencing the body’s natural anti-nausea pathways. They are completely drug-free, making them a useful option for individuals who want to avoid medication or for situations where drowsiness is not acceptable. They can be worn for car, boat, or air travel, and may also help with nausea related to pregnancy or anesthesia recovery.
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Ginger-Containing Products
Ginger has been studied for its anti-nausea effects and is thought to work by improving stomach movement (gastric motility) and calming the digestive tract. It may also influence serotonin receptors involved in nausea signaling. Available as capsules, teas, lozenges, or chews, ginger provides gentle relief without sedation and can be taken before or during travel. It is generally well tolerated, though very high doses may cause mild heartburn in sensitive individuals.
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Motion Sickness Glasses
These specialized glasses use liquid-filled lenses to create a stable visual horizon, reducing the sensory mismatch between what your eyes see and what your inner ear senses—one of the main causes of motion sickness. By helping align visual input with body movement, they can lessen nausea and dizziness, especially for passengers who read or use screens while in motion. They are non-sedating and may be helpful for people who cannot take antihistamines.
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Herbal Motion Sickness Patches
Worn behind the ear, these patches typically contain herbal ingredients such as ginger, peppermint, or menthol. These botanicals may stimulate sensory nerves, producing a cooling or soothing effect that distracts from nausea signals and eases digestive discomfort. Although not as thoroughly studied as medical treatments, many people find them helpful for mild symptoms. They are drug-free and do not cause drowsiness, making them suitable for daytime travel.
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If you want simple, natural nausea relief, try wristbands or ginger
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Use motion sickness glasses if you’re prone to dizziness when reading or using screens while traveling.
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Consider herbal patches for continuous, drug-free prevention.
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If non-medicated options are not enough, switch to OTC medications such as meclizine or dimenhydrinate for stronger relief.
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Motion sickness medicated relief