What are the home remedies for nausea?

From the Guidelines

Ginger is a reliable option for relieving nausea, and taking ginger capsules (250mg four times daily) can be an effective home remedy. Several other home remedies can also help alleviate nausea symptoms. Peppermint tea or smelling peppermint essential oil can calm an upset stomach. Staying hydrated with small sips of clear fluids like water, clear broth, or diluted sports drinks is essential, rather than drinking large amounts at once. Acupressure may help by pressing on the P6 point (located about three finger-widths above your wrist on the inner forearm) for 2-3 minutes 1. Deep breathing exercises and avoiding strong odors, greasy foods, and excessive movement can prevent worsening symptoms. Cold compresses on the back of the neck or forehead sometimes provide relief. For food, try bland options like crackers, toast, or bananas when you're able to eat. These remedies work by reducing stomach acid, calming the digestive system, or interrupting nausea signals in the brain. If nausea persists beyond 24-48 hours, is accompanied by severe pain, high fever, or inability to keep any fluids down, seek medical attention.

Some key points to consider when using home remedies for nausea include:

• Identifying and avoiding specific triggers, such as certain foods with strong odors or activities
• Eating small, frequent, and bland meals, such as the BRAT (bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast) diet
• Trying high-protein and low-fat meals to help alleviate symptoms
• Considering vitamin B6 (pyridoxine, 10–25 mg every 8 hours) as a therapeutic option, as recommended by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) 1

It's essential to note that while these home remedies can be effective, they may not work for everyone, and it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional if symptoms persist or worsen over time. The most recent and highest quality study on this topic is from 2024, which provides guidance on managing nausea and vomiting during pregnancy 1.

From the FDA Drug Label

The FDA drug label does not answer the question.

From the Research

Home Remedies for Nausea

• Ginger has been shown to be effective in relieving nausea and vomiting during pregnancy, with studies indicating that it can reduce the severity of nausea and vomiting compared to placebo 2, 3, 4.
• Vitamin B6 has also been found to be effective in relieving nausea and vomiting during pregnancy, although its effectiveness compared to ginger is still debated 2, 3, 4.
• Acupuncture and acupressure have been proven to be effective in preventing and treating nausea and vomiting across multiple patient populations, including pregnant women, patients receiving chemotherapy, and postoperative patients 5.
• Other home remedies that may be effective in relieving nausea and vomiting include:
  • Antihistamines
  • Metoclopramide (for mild symptoms)
  • Pyridoxine-doxylamine (for moderate symptoms)
  • Ondansetron (for moderate to severe symptoms)
  • Corticosteroids (for severe symptoms) 6

Effectiveness of Ginger

• Ginger has been shown to be more effective than placebo in relieving nausea and vomiting during pregnancy 2, 3, 4.
• Ginger has been found to be comparable to vitamin B6 in relieving nausea and vomiting during pregnancy, although some studies suggest that ginger may be more effective 2, 3, 4.
• The exact mechanism of ginger's effectiveness in relieving nausea and vomiting is still unknown, although it is thought to be related to its anti-inflammatory properties.

Safety and Side Effects

• Ginger has been found to be safe and well-tolerated during pregnancy, with minimal side effects reported 2, 3, 4.
• Acupuncture and acupressure have also been found to be safe and well-tolerated, with minimal side effects reported 5.
• Other home remedies, such as antihistamines and metoclopramide, may have more significant side effects and should be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider.