The Science Behind Ginger’s Ability to Soothe Motion Sickness
Motion sickness can be a frustrating and uncomfortable experience for many people. According to MedlinePlus, it affects approximately one in three individuals who are highly susceptible to it, and almost everyone can experience motion sickness if exposed to intense movement. While the condition is common, there is a natural remedy that has been used for centuries and backed by scientific research: ginger.
Ginger is widely recognized for its ability to settle the stomach and reduce nausea. Travel expert James Steele from Go2Africa recently shared with Travel + Leisure that ginger helps improve digestion, calm the gastrointestinal tract, and reduce nausea by preventing abnormal electrical activity in the stomach. This makes it an effective solution for those dealing with motion sickness.
Uma Darji, a board-certified family medicine doctor, supports this claim. She notes that ginger has strong scientific backing and works on both the gastrointestinal system and the central nervous system. Whether consumed as tea, chews, or capsules, ginger is a go-to remedy she often recommends, especially for patients looking to avoid medications.
Research Supporting Ginger’s Effectiveness
A 2020 clinical study published in the journal Current Therapeutic Research explored the effectiveness of ginger in reducing motion sickness. The study involved 184 adults with a history of motion sickness who took four trips—on a bus, car, ferry, train, or subway—each lasting 15 minutes. On the first trip, participants traveled without any aid, while on the subsequent trips, they each took a ginger tablet 15 minutes before their journey. After each trip, participants completed a “Motion Sickness Assessment Questionnaire” (MSAQ).
The results showed a significant drop in average MSAQ scores, from around 40 points before ginger treatment to about 25 points after. This indicated a noticeable improvement in symptoms such as nausea, dizziness, and fatigue. However, some participants reported increased indigestion and burping, which may be linked to the ginger itself.
How Does Ginger Work?
Researchers suggest that ginger helps settle the gastrointestinal tract and prevents stomach contractions that can trigger nausea. It may also interact with serotonin receptors, reducing the signals sent from the stomach to the brain that cause discomfort.
Hussain Ahmad, a consultant practitioner at Click2Pharmacy, confirms that ginger tablets, tea, or crystallized ginger can be effective and safe for most people. However, he advises consulting a general practitioner or pharmacist if you are pregnant or taking blood thinners.
Tips for Using Ginger Effectively
James Steele recommends drinking ginger tea 30 to 60 minutes before travel to allow the body time to absorb the active compounds. He also suggests packing ginger candies for the journey, but emphasizes that they should contain real ginger extract or crystallized ginger, not just flavoring.
While ginger is a powerful remedy, Steele also mentioned other home remedies that many people swear by, even if they lack the same level of scientific support. These include eating a green apple, which may help due to its sour taste that stimulates saliva production, smelling a lemon to trick the brain, or blowing on your thumb to reduce stress and anxiety. If these methods work for you, they can be worth trying.
Overall, ginger remains a reliable and natural option for those seeking relief from motion sickness. With its long history of use and growing scientific support, it’s no wonder many travelers turn to it when heading out on the road.
