Lemon for motion sickness: Uses and side effects

I had never been on a cruise, so when I got the chance to explore a huge ship, I got really excited. But I was also concerned about my health since I am used to motion sickness, especially when I fly. I often experience dizziness, headache, and nausea when I travel. So, I was in a dilemma. But then my mom helped me out. She said it may help to smell lemon to combat motion sickness. I carried some in my bag, and when I felt like throwing up, I quickly took out the citrus fruit and started smelling it. My mom was right, as it worked! Read on to know what an expert has to say about using lemon for motion sickness.

What is motion sickness?

Motion sickness, which happens when the movement you see is not the same from what your inner ear senses, can make travelling unpleasant. Whether you are in a car, or on a train, boat, or an airplane, you can get sick anywhere. It can cause dizziness, vomiting, and nausea, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

How does smelling lemon help to combat motion sickness?

Lemon, scientifically known as Citrus limon, is a citrus fruit highly valued for its tangy flavour and its versatility in various culinary applications. Whether used to enhance the taste of savoury dishes, add zest to desserts, or as a refreshing drink ingredient, lemons are loved for their unique taste and aroma.
It does more than making your dish taste better. Using lemon inhalation aromatherapy may help to reduce nausea and vomiting, according to a 2023 study published in the BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies.

The distinctive scent of lemon may offer relief from symptoms of motion sickness, particularly the uncomfortable sensation of queasiness in the stomach, says dietitian Simrat Kathuria. The refreshing and calming sensory experience provided by the smell of lemon may help alleviate the discomfort associated with motion sickness.

Can lemon juice be used as a home remedy for motion sickness?

Lemon juice can be a potential aid in alleviating motion sickness due to its content of neutralising acids, which can help with digestion and soothe the stomach. By consuming lemon juice, people may find relief from nausea and other symptoms commonly experienced during travel, making it a simple and natural remedy to consider, says the expert.

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How to prepare lemon juice to prevent motion sickness?

To prepare lemon juice for motion sickness prevention, squeeze fresh lemon juice into a glass of water and add a pinch of salt. Mixing lemon with salt can provide essential electrolytes that aid in combating motion sickness and maintaining hydration levels during travel. This combination offers a natural way to replenish electrolytes lost through sweating and vomiting, helping people feel more balanced and comfortable during their journey. This simple concoction also provides a refreshing and hydrating beverage that can be consumed throughout the journey to help prevent motion sickness effectively.

Consume approximately 250 to 300 ml of lemon juice mixed with water for the duration of the journey to effectively stave off motion sickness, suggests Kathuria. By maintaining a steady intake of lemon juice and water, you can help minimise the onset of motion sickness symptoms and enjoy a more comfortable travel experience.

People who have allergies to citrus foods or those who struggle with drinking water while travelling should exercise caution and avoid consuming lemon juice to prevent any potential adverse reactions.

What are the side effects of using lemon for motion sickness?

Using lemon for motion sickness typically comes with minimal side effects, but people may experience mild reactions such as heartburn or acid reflux, if it is consumed excessively. It is important to consume lemon juice in moderation and be mindful of any potential adverse reactions, especially for people who are prone to digestive issues or acid sensitivity.

Drinking lemon juice or smelling lemon may help combat motion sickness. But people with a sensitive stomach need to be cautious while drinking lemon juice during their journey.