Good for me and good for motion sickness.
Yes, ginger can be effective for motion sickness by reducing nausea and vomiting, with some studies suggesting it's as effective as or better than
Dramamine but with fewer side effects. The
active compounds in ginger like
gingerols and shogaols are thought to calm the stomach and improve gastric function, though its exact mechanism is not fully understood. You can take it as a supplement, with 940 mg of powdered ginger showing effectiveness in one study, or try ginger snaps, ginger ale, or tea.
How Ginger Works
- Active Compounds:
Ginger contains compounds called gingerols, shogaols, and zingerone that are responsible for its medicinal properties.
- Gastrointestinal Action:
These active compounds are believed to influence the stomach directly, calming it and improving the rate of gastric transport, which can help alleviate nausea.
- Beyond the Central Nervous System:
Unlike traditional motion sickness drugs that affect the central nervous system, ginger's effect appears to be more localized to the digestive system.
How to Use Ginger for Motion Sickness
- Supplements:
Ginger is available in capsule form. A common dosage recommendation is 940 mg to 1 gram of powdered ginger taken about an hour before travel.
- Natural Sources:
You can also consume ginger in other forms like:
Considerations
- Dosage:
For mild to moderate motion sickness, a dosage of 500 mg to 1 gram of powdered ginger is often suggested.
- Effectiveness:
While effective for many, results can vary. One study found ginger superior to Dramamine, while others showed mixed results, with some studies showing benefits and others not.
- Side Effects:
Ginger generally has fewer side effects than traditional motion sickness medications.
- Consult a Healthcare Provider:
Always talk to a doctor before using any new treatment, especially if you have other health conditions, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) and PeaceHealth.