Essential Oils for Nausea

Overview

Essential oils are concentrated plant extracts distilled into potent liquids. These oils capture the active qualities of various herbs and spices. Some of these characteristics can eliminate bacteria, relax tense muscles, alleviate pain, enhance digestion, and ease nausea. Because they often cause few adverse effects and pose minimal risk, essential oils are increasingly used as home remedies for a variety of ailments.

Essential oils are not intended to be swallowed and a few may be hazardous if ingested. They are meant to be vaporized in a diffuser or combined with a carrier oil and applied to the skin.

If you regularly suffer from nausea due to pregnancy, stomach upset, vertigo, acid reflux, or other common causes, essential oils could offer some relief.

1. Lavender oil

Lavender essential oil is widely recognized for its calming effects. Applying lavender topically or using it in a diffuser can help your mind unwind as you prepare for sleep. That same calming quality may also make lavender useful for easing nausea.

If your queasiness stems from anxiety or physical discomfort, lavender’s ability to soothe may be just what you need. This approach works well when you add a few drops of lavender to a diffuser and inhale slowly as the aroma fills the room.

For nausea linked to pregnancy, viral illness, or post-surgical pain, you may prefer some of the other oils listed below.

2. Ginger oil

Ginger essential oil has been researched as a treatment for nausea and motion-related sickness. Many people vouch for its effectiveness, and studies support that it helps. Ginger oil can be diffused, massaged onto pressure points such as the wrists and forehead, or gently rubbed onto the abdomen to soothe nausea.

A clinical trial found this approach particularly useful for individuals who experience nausea after anesthesia. Ginger is also generally regarded as safe for pregnant women dealing with morning sickness.

3. Peppermint oil

Peppermint tea is often recommended for nausea, and peppermint essential oil can produce a similar calming outcome. Researchers think peppermint oil helps relax stomach muscles, preventing cramping or excessive contractions.

A review of studies determined that inhaling peppermint oil when nauseated can quickly ease symptoms and make you feel better. Although additional research is needed to understand peppermint’s effects on various types of nausea, try using peppermint oil in a diffuser next time you feel unwell.

4. Spearmint oil

Less commonly cited for nausea, peppermint’s close relative spearmint also shows promise. Like peppermint and ginger, spearmint essential oil can be applied to pressure points, smoothed over the abdominal area, or vaporized to relieve queasiness. The invigorating scent of spearmint, combined with the menthol in the oil, can help you feel more alert and breathe easier despite nausea.

5. Cardamom oil

Cardamom is a spice related to ginger with a distinct aroma and effects. Cardamom essential oil was included in a blend tested in a clinical study addressing post-operative nausea. The research indicated that cardamom shows potential as an anti-nausea agent when combined with other essential oils.

To use cardamom alone or in a blend, add a few drops to an oil diffuser. The warm, spicy aroma of cardamom may also promote relaxation, which can reduce nausea and anxiety associated with illness.

6. Fennel oil

Fennel is commonly used to aid digestion and relieve constipation. Fennel helps relax the digestive tract, which can prevent and reduce nausea. Fennel essential oil may offer similar benefits. It can be diluted in a carrier oil and applied to pressure points or dispersed into the air. There is minimal risk in using fennel oil multiple times per day.

Side effects and risks

Using essential oils to treat nausea is generally low risk, but certain individuals should avoid this approach. In rare instances, excessive exposure to menthol in peppermint and spearmint can irritate the skin. A more frequently reported adverse reaction is dermatitis from lavender oil.

Mix potent essential oils with a mild carrier oil such as jojoba or coconut oil before applying to skin. This helps prevent burning or irritation when using oils topically. A common dilution is three to five drops of essential oil per ounce of carrier oil.

Do not inhale vapor directly from a diffuser or steam device as it can irritate mucous membranes. If your nausea continues for more than 48 hours, or if signs of dehydration appear, discontinue essential oil use and contact your healthcare provider.

These home remedies are intended for mild nausea and won’t eliminate the underlying cause if you have a bacterial or viral infection. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding and seeking relief from morning sickness, consult your midwife or doctor before trying alternative therapies.

Takeaway and outlook

Keep in mind that essential oils are not a cure-all. Research on their therapeutic limits is ongoing and not yet comprehensive. With that caveat, there’s little downside to trying a preferred essential oil for mild nausea. By inhaling deeply and calming your body, you may be able to stave off worsening nausea.

The FDA does not regulate the production or use of essential oils. To ensure quality and safety, investigate manufacturers before buying a specific brand. A certified aromatherapist can offer guidance.

Watch for warning signs even if you begin to feel better, and never attempt to self-treat dehydration, severe headaches, or heavy bleeding that accompany nausea. Your healthcare provider is the best source for diagnosing and treating the causes of any persistent or severe nausea.