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Nausea

10 proven tips against that queasy feeling in the stomach

Whether after a heavy meal, during travel movements or as a sign of illness: nausea can put us completely out of action. Instead of waiting and hoping for improvement, there are effective immediate measures that can provide quick relief. Try what helps you most in the moment.
  • Reach for stomach-soothing teas

Drink slowly and in small sips to avoid overloading your stomach. Special digestive blends with chamomile, peppermint or fennel-anise-cumin work best. These herbs are known for their antispasmodic and calming effects. Still, cool water can also help stabilise the stomach.

  • Use the power of ginger

Ginger is the wonder root against nausea. The gingerols it contains have been shown to reduce the urge to vomit. For on-the-go relief, ginger sweets or lozenges are ideal. At home you can use ready-made ginger tea bags or a small ginger shot from the refrigerated shelf.

  • Opt foracupressure bands when travelling

Great for motion sickness and for morning nausea: acupressure bands. These bands have a small button that applies gentle, constant pressure to the Nei-Guan point on the wrist. It's a proven, drug-free and reusable solution.

  • Use electrolyte powder to rebalance

If nausea is severe enough to cause vomiting, the body loses important minerals. Electrolyte powder dissolved in water helps quickly restore mineral balance and stabilise circulation. This is especially important to prevent dehydration.

  • Benefit from aromatherapy with essential oils

Sometimes a certain scent alone can bring relief. Peppermint and lemon oils are known to reduce nausea. Place one or two drops on a tissue and inhale deeply. The small bottles are perfect for a handbag.

  • Try cooling compresses and refreshing sprays

Cold can be very soothing and distract from nausea. A reusable cold–hot compress from the freezer placed on the forehead or neck works wonders. For travel, a thermal water or facial refresh spray is a great alternative to quickly clear your head.

  • Maintain an upright posture

Do not lie completely flat, as this can encourage reflux of stomach acid into the oesophagus (heartburn) and worsen nausea. Sit upright instead and support your head with pillows to elevate the upper body.

  • Avoid strong smells and stimuli

An overstimulated sense of smell can greatly intensify nausea. Avoid strong odours such as cooking fumes, perfume or cigarette smoke. A quiet, well-ventilated room is the best place for you right now.

  • Eat light, stomach-friendly food

If you can eat something, opt for easily digestible items. Dry toast, breadsticks, crackers, a plain slice of toast or a ripe banana are ideal. They absorb excess stomach acid and do not put additional strain on the stomach.

  • Fresh air and calm breathing help

Open a window or take a few steps outside. Cold, fresh air often works wonders. Focus on slow, deep belly breathing: breathe in deeply through your nose so your stomach rises, then slowly exhale through your mouth. This soothes the nervous system and can reduce the urge to vomit.

editorial.facts

  • The actual trigger for nausea does not sit in the stomach but in the brain. The so-called vomiting centre in the brainstem is the control hub that receives signals from the whole body. That is why not only stomach problems, but also smells, visual stimuli (as in motion sickness) or even intense stress and anxiety can trigger the feeling of nausea.