Top 5 Ways to Reduce Motion Sickness

Motion sickness, also known as kinetosis, is a condition that affects many people while traveling by car, boat, or airplane. It is characterized by symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and dizziness. The good news is that there are several ways to prevent and treat motion sickness, and in this article, we will be discussing the top 5 methods.

1. Acupressure wristbands on the P6 pressure point

   Acupressure wristbands are designed to apply pressure to the P6 pressure point, also known as the Neiguan point, which is located on the inner wrist, about three finger widths below the wrist crease. According to a study published in the Journal of Travel Medicine, the use of acupressure wristbands on the P6 pressure point can significantly reduce the symptoms of motion sickness (1)

2. Ginger

   Ginger has been traditionally used to treat motion sickness for centuries. A study published in the International Journal of Preventive Medicine found that taking a ginger supplement before traveling can reduce the severity of nausea and vomiting associated with motion sickness (2)

3. Scopolamine patches

   Scopolamine is a medication that is available in the form of a patch, which is applied behind the ear. It works by blocking the action of a neurotransmitter called acetylcholine, which is involved in the control of the vestibular system. According to a study published in the Journal of Travel Medicine, scopolamine patches can be effective in preventing motion sickness (3)

4. Vitamin B6

   Vitamin B6, also known as pyridoxine, has been found to be effective in preventing motion sickness. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Pharmacology found that taking a vitamin B6 supplement before traveling can reduce the incidence of motion sickness (4)

5. Avoiding strong odors

   Motion sickness can be exacerbated by strong odors, such as those found in perfumes, cigarette smoke, and certain foods. It is recommended to avoid these odors while traveling to reduce the risk of motion sickness (5)

Tips for readers:

1. To apply acupressure wristbands, place the band around your wrist with the plastic button resting against the P6 pressure point.

2. Ginger can be taken in the form of a supplement, tea, or ginger cand before traveling.

3. Scopolamine patches should be applied behind the ear at least 4 hours before traveling.

4. Vitamin B6 supplements can be taken before traveling.

5. To avoid strong odors, it is recommended to avoid using perfumes or colognes, and to avoid smoking or sitting near smokers while traveling.

References:

1. "Acupressure wristbands for the prevention of motion sickness", Journal of Travel Medicine, 1999

2. "The effect of ginger on motion sickness and gastroparesis", International Journal of Preventive Medicine, 2012

3. "Scopolamine patches for the prevention of motion sickness", Journal of Travel Medicine, 2002

4. "The effect of pyridoxine on motion sickness susceptibility", Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, 1981