Motion Sickness
Synopsis of Motion Sickness
Motion sickness is a common condition that occurs when there is a mismatch between visual signals and inner ear balance input, causing the brain to become confused by conflicting messages about movement. It can happen in cars, planes, boats, or amusement rides, and may affect both children and adults—especially those prone to migraines or balance sensitivity.
The inner ear (vestibular system) plays a key role in detecting movement. When the eyes perceive stillness (e.g., reading a book in a moving vehicle) while the inner ear senses motion, the result is often nausea, dizziness, or fatigue.
Common symptoms include:
-
Nausea and vomiting
-
Pale skin or cold sweats
-
Dizziness or vertigo
-
Fatigue
-
Headache
-
Increased salivation
-
Loss of appetite
Triggers and risk factors:
-
Reading or looking at screens while in motion
-
Strong odors or stuffy environments
-
Anxiety or fear of travel
-
Poor ventilation
-
History of migraines or inner ear disorders
When to see a doctor:
If motion sickness is severe, recurrent, or interfering with travel, or if symptoms continue after motion stops, consult a healthcare provider. Chronic or persistent symptoms may require further evaluation for vestibular disorders.
Natural remedies for Motion Sickness
Look at the Horizon: Focus on a fixed point in the distance to stabilize visual input.
Sit in the Front Seat or Midship: Less motion is felt in these areas.
Avoid Heavy or Greasy Meals Before Travel: Can worsen nausea.
Ensure Good Ventilation: Fresh air helps reduce nausea and dizziness.
Close Your Eyes and Rest: Reduces sensory mismatch between eyes and inner ear.
Ingredients
These raw ingredients are often used in alternative medicine to treat Motion Sickness
chamomile
GABA (gamma aminobutyric acid)
ginger
licorice root
magnesium
Peppermint
reishi mushroom
vitamin B6
vitamin C
African Ginger
Coca
Caffeine
Doxylamine succinate
Gastrodia
Additional Help
Talk with Dr. Shannyn
Struggling with chronic symptoms?
Many health concerns are complex—and what works for one person may not work for another. Talk with Dr. Shannyn, our licensed naturopathic doctor, to get personalized guidance on which herbs, nutrients, or lifestyle shifts could support your healing.
Schedule a Free Consult →
Personalized support. No pressure. No cost.
At-Home Lab Testing
Get to the root of what’s really going on.
Symptoms like fatigue, bloating, skin issues, or mood changes often point to deeper imbalances. Our at-home lab tests make it easy to investigate hormone health, gut function, food sensitivities, and more—no clinic visit required.
Explore Lab Testing →
Results interpreted with expert support. No clinic visit required.