What Helps with Nausea? Natural Remedies and Medications for Relief

Nausea is an uncomfortable sensation that often signals an underlying issue, whether it’s a digestive upset, illness, or even stress. While it can be caused by a wide range of factors, the important thing is finding relief. At Central Pharmacy, we understand how distressing nausea can be, and we're here to offer helpful insights into both natural remedies and medications that can alleviate this common issue. With locations in Charlotte, Lansing, Flint, Owosso, Laingsburg, Perry, Patient Care, Westside, Haslett, MLK, Chesaning, East Lansing, and Williamston, we’re here to assist you in finding the best solutions for your symptoms.

What is Nausea?

Nausea is the sensation of unease or discomfort in the stomach, often accompanied by an urge to vomit. It can be triggered by a variety of causes, including but not limited to:

• Motion sickness
• Food poisoning
• Infections
• Medications
• Pregnancy (morning sickness)
• Stress and anxiety
• Migraines
• Overeating or indigestion

Though nausea itself is not a disease, it can be a symptom of many different conditions. Addressing the root cause, as well as managing the discomfort, is key to finding relief.

What Helps with Nausea? Natural Remedies

Before reaching for over-the-counter medications, many people turn to natural remedies to help alleviate nausea. These remedies can be used alone or in combination with medications, depending on your situation.

1. Ginger

• Ginger has long been known for its ability to settle the stomach. Whether you consume it as ginger tea, ginger ale, or even raw ginger, it is one of the most widely used natural remedies for nausea. Studies suggest that ginger can help reduce nausea from various causes, including pregnancy, motion sickness, and chemotherapy.

2. Peppermint

• Peppermint is another popular remedy that may help soothe nausea. You can try sipping peppermint tea or simply sucking on peppermint candies. The menthol in peppermint is thought to help relax the muscles of the digestive tract, which can reduce nausea.

3. Lemon

• The fresh scent of lemon can be surprisingly effective in reducing nausea. You can try inhaling lemon essential oils, sipping water with a slice of lemon, or simply smelling a fresh lemon to ease your discomfort.

4. Acupressure

• Acupressure involves applying pressure to certain points on the body. The most commonly used point for nausea is located on the inner wrist, about two finger-widths below the wrist crease. By pressing this point gently for several minutes, some people find relief from nausea.

5. Hydration

• Dehydration can make nausea worse. Sipping water in small amounts throughout the day can help prevent dehydration, which can lead to a vicious cycle of nausea. If water feels too heavy, sipping on clear liquids such as broth or electrolyte drinks can also help.

6. Chamomile

• Chamomile tea is another soothing option for nausea. Chamomile has anti-inflammatory properties and can help relax the digestive system, which may alleviate nausea symptoms. Be sure to drink it in moderation, as it can cause drowsiness in some individuals.

7. Apple Cider Vinegar

• A tablespoon of apple cider vinegar mixed in water is a home remedy some people find useful. The vinegar can help balance stomach acidity and improve digestion, which may provide relief from nausea.

8. Rest

• Sometimes, simply resting can help alleviate nausea, especially if it’s related to motion sickness or stress. Lying down in a comfortable position and allowing your body to relax can give your digestive system the break it needs to recover.

Medications for Nausea Relief

If natural remedies aren’t providing enough relief or if your nausea is more persistent, there are a variety of medications available to help ease the discomfort. Some of these can be found over the counter, while others may require a prescription from your healthcare provider.

1. Over-the-Counter Antiemetics

• Antiemetics are medications specifically designed to prevent or relieve nausea and vomiting. Some common over-the-counter antiemetics include:
  • Meclizine (used for motion sickness)
  • Dimenhydrinate (another common treatment for motion sickness)
  • Diphenhydramine (also known as Benadryl, which can help with nausea caused by allergies or colds)
• These medications can be effective for short-term relief, particularly in cases of motion sickness or nausea related to colds and allergies.

2. Prescription Antiemetics

• If you have more chronic or severe nausea, particularly from conditions like chemotherapy, your doctor may prescribe stronger antiemetic medications, such as:
  • Ondansetron (Zofran) – commonly used for nausea from chemotherapy or surgery
  • Prochlorperazine (Compazine) – often prescribed for nausea from severe conditions like migraines or post-surgery recovery
  • Metoclopramide (Reglan) – used to treat nausea from delayed stomach emptying or GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease)

3. Antacids

• Antacids can help neutralize stomach acid and provide relief from nausea related to acid reflux or indigestion. Medications like Tums, Maalox, or Mylanta can help calm an upset stomach and reduce nausea.

4. Bismuth Subsalicylate

• Pepto-Bismol is often used for nausea related to food poisoning, overindulgence, or an upset stomach. It can help coat the stomach and reduce irritation, leading to relief from nausea.

When to Seek Medical Help

While most cases of nausea are temporary and can be managed with the remedies mentioned above, there are times when nausea may signal a more serious condition. If you experience the following symptoms along with nausea, it’s important to seek medical attention promptly:

• Severe abdominal pain
• Blood in vomit or stool
• Dehydration symptoms (such as dry mouth, dizziness, or lack of urination)
• Persistent vomiting that lasts more than 24 hours
• Fever or chills
• Unexplained weight loss
• Severe headache or blurry vision (particularly if you suspect a migraine or a more serious neurological issue)

How Central Pharmacy Can Help

At Central Pharmacy, we are committed to helping you manage your nausea symptoms. Whether you need over-the-counter remedies or a consultation for prescription medications, we are here to guide you through the best treatment options. Our pharmacists can provide personalized recommendations based on your symptoms and health history.

We also offer convenient medication synchronization services to ensure that you take your medications on time and manage your symptoms effectively. Visit us at any of our locations in Charlotte, Lansing, Flint, Owosso, Laingsburg, Perry, Patient Care, Westside, Haslett, MLK, Chesaning, East Lansing, or Williamston, and let us help you find the best solutions for your nausea relief.

Conclusion

Nausea can be a frustrating and uncomfortable symptom, but with the right knowledge and treatments, you can manage it effectively. Whether you turn to natural remedies, over-the-counter medications, or prescription treatments, the key is finding the approach that works best for you. At Central Pharmacy, we are here to support you with personalized care and guidance to relieve your nausea and improve your overall well-being.

If nausea is affecting your quality of life, reach out to us today for expert advice and support. We’re here to help you feel better, faster.