Whether you're flying to a long-awaited vacation, going for a boat ride, or driving along a winding mountain road, nothing kills a good time faster than motion sickness. The sudden uneasiness that comes before vomiting, the resulting stress and anxiety, and the general sluggish feeling that hangs over you like a cloud throughout the whole experience can make even the most exciting moments unbearable.
There's a lot of confusing information out there about which essential oils to use for motion sickness, so we've compiled everything we could here into one place for you. Amidst all the misinformation and contradicting facts, a few star helpers shine through.
Always talk to your doctor about medical concerns, as essential oils aren’t a cure, but they can be an effective tool in helping you fight the uneasy feelings associated with motion sickness
What Causes Motion Sickness?
Motion sickness is caused by a conflict between the sensory inputs that the brain receives. When we are in motion, such as when traveling by car, boat, or airplane, our eyes see one thing, our inner ears sense another, and our bodies feel a different sensation altogether. The eyes see that the surroundings are moving, but the inner ear, which is responsible for balance, detects that the body is not moving. These conflicting messages can cause a feeling of dizziness, nausea, and other symptoms associated with motion sickness.
Motion sickness can be triggered by other factors such as anxiety, stress, and certain medications. Anxiety and stress can exacerbate symptoms of motion sickness, and medications such as painkillers and antibiotics can cause nausea and vomiting. Some people are also more prone to motion sickness due to their individual physiology and genetics. Women, for example, are more likely to experience motion sickness than men. Furthermore, those who have a history of migraine headaches or have previously experienced motion sickness are also more susceptible to motion sickness.
7 Best Essential Oils for Motion Sickness
Lavender essential oil is known for being a jack of all trades, but did you know it’s great for helping with nausea too? Nausea can be caused by a host of problems, such as anxiety or pain, both of which can be soothed by lavender.
Peppermint essential oil is helpful for motion sickness due to its ability to alleviate nausea, vomiting, and dizziness. Peppermint oil contains menthol, which has a cooling effect on the skin and helps to soothe the stomach muscles and reduce inflammation. When inhaled, peppermint oil can help stimulate the brain's limbic system, which is responsible for regulating emotions and triggering a calming response. This can help reduce feelings of anxiety and stress that can exacerbate motion sickness symptoms.
Lemon essential oil is known for its refreshing, invigorating scent, which can help alleviate feelings of queasiness and calm the stomach. One of the primary active components in lemon oil is limonene, which has been shown in studies to have anti-nausea and antiemetic (anti-vomiting) effects. Limonene may work by activating receptors in the brain and gastrointestinal tract that help to regulate nausea and vomiting.
#4 Ginger
Ginger has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for digestive issues, including nausea and motion sickness. One of the active compounds in ginger oil is gingerol, which has been shown in studies to have anti-inflammatory and anti-nausea effects. Gingerol works by blocking serotonin receptors in the gut and brain that are responsible for triggering nausea and vomiting.
Frankincense has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for a variety of ailments, including digestive issues and mental health concerns. One of the active compounds in frankincense oil is boswellic acid, which has been shown in studies to have anti-inflammatory effects. Inflammation in the gut can contribute to symptoms of motion sickness, so reducing inflammation can help to alleviate these symptoms.
Additionally, frankincense oil has a calming and grounding effect on the mind and body, which can help alleviate feelings of stress and anxiety that can exacerbate motion sickness symptoms.
#6 Ylang Ylang
Ylang ylang has a sweet, floral scent that is known to have a calming and soothing effect on the mind and body. One of the active compounds in ylang ylang oil is linalool, which has been shown in studies to have anti-anxiety effects. Anxiety and stress can exacerbate motion sickness symptoms, so reducing anxiety can help to alleviate these symptoms.
Additionally, ylang ylang oil has been traditionally used in aromatherapy and natural remedies for digestive issues, including nausea and vomiting. Its calming and soothing properties can help relax the stomach muscles and alleviate feelings of queasiness.
#7 Chamomile
Chamomile essential oil has been used for centuries to relieve gastrointestinal conditions, making it a great addition to any natural motion sickness remedy. Traditionally, chamomile is used to alleviate gas and relax the stomach muscles. Both of these can help reduce the feelings of nausea associated with motion sickness.
Where to Buy Essential Oils
If you are looking for high quality, organic essential oils, consider checking out our shop page. All of our essential oils and blends are USDA Certified organic, GC/MS tested, and Non GMO. You can find all of the listed essential oils pre-blended in our organic Motion Sicknes blend. Try it today and feel the soothing power of nature!
How to Use Essential Oils to Fight Motion Sickness
Inhalation
One of the easiest ways to use essential oils for motion sickness is through inhalation. You can add a few drops of essential oil to a diffuser or inhaler tube and inhale the scent. Alternatively, you can add a few drops of essential oil to a tissue or cloth and inhale the scent directly.
Topical Application
Essential oils can also be applied topically to the skin. You can mix a few drops of essential oil with a carrier oil, such as coconut oil or almond oil, and massage the mixture onto the temples, neck, and wrists.
It's important to note that when using essential oils topically, always dilute them before use, and test for sensitivity in a small area of the skin before applying it to a larger area. It is also recommended to consult a doctor or a qualified practitioner before using essential oils if you have a medical condition, or if you're pregnant or breastfeeding.
Bath
Adding a few drops of essential oil to a warm bath can be a relaxing way to alleviate symptoms of motion sickness. You can mix a few drops of essential oil with a tablespoon of carrier oil or bath salts and add it to the bathwater.
Aromatherapy Jewelry
Aromatherapy jewelry, such as necklaces or bracelets, can be a convenient way to use essential oils on the go. You can add a few drops of essential oil to the jewelry and inhale the scent throughout the day.
Final Thoughts
Motion sickness can be a frustrating and uncomfortable condition, but there are natural remedies, such as essential oils, that can help alleviate symptoms. Lavender, peppermint, lemon, ginger, frankincense, ylang ylang, and chamomile are all effective essential oils for motion sickness. However, it is important to use them safely and properly, and to consult with a healthcare provider if you have severe or persistent motion sickness. With the right combination of natural remedies, you can enjoy your travels without the discomfort of motion sickness!
