Tired of Motion Sickness? Try This Citrus Wonder for a Smoother Journey!

The vacation is just about here, suitcases are all zipped up... and suddenly it strikes: The commonly known nausea that sets in as soon as the car begins to move. , the plane moves along the runway, or the boat departs from the pier. Travel-related motion sickness is a widespread issue, impacting as many as one in every three individuals at some stage. as per the Mayo Clinic.

As numerous people opt for medicines or acupuncture wristbands, an unexpected yet straightforward natural solution is catching on — one you probably keep in your kitchen anyway: lemons!

Lemon vs. motion sickness: just an old wives' tale?

Not quite. While it might sound like a homespun remedy, science backs it up . A study from 2017 that was published in Complementary Therapies in Health Care Practice discovered that breathing in lemon essential oil notably decreased nausea among patients recovering from surgery. Even though that study was not particularly aimed at travel-related nausea, the physiological process is similar.

In 2023, Spanish newspaper La Vanguardia featured lemon among natural remedies supported by research, quoting aromatherapy experts who recommend bringing along a piece of lemon during travels —or even carrying a portable diffuser filled with lemon essential oil during long drives or flights.

Why lemon might help

The key is found in a substance known as limonene , discovered in citrus rind. This compound has demonstrated anxiolytic and anti-nausea effects, and the vibrant, zesty aroma of lemon has an effect on the brain’s limbic system —the section responsible for managing emotions, handling stress, and maintaining equilibrium.

Briefly put, the lemon aroma could disrupt the brain’s nausea signals and ease travel anxiety, assisting you in feeling more relaxed before you start your journey.

Ways to Use Lemon to Alleviate Motion Sickness

No complicated tools or recipes needed — just scratch the peel of a fresh lemon, or gently press your fingernail into it and inhale the aroma. This simple motion releases the citrus essential oils into the air, offering almost immediate relief for many.

Prefer a more discreet option?

• Add a few drops of lemon essential oil to a tissue or handkerchief and sniff gently as needed.
• Use a portable diffuser using lemon oil when traveling for extended periods.
• Several individuals opt to store a tiny segment of lemon wedge or some zest in an airtight container. , prepared for opening and smelling whenever needed.

Just a reminder: lemon essential oil may increase your sensitivity to sunlight — steer clear of applying it directly onto your skin before going out into the sun, and be sure to mix it well with a carrier oil when using it topically.

When lemon isn’t enough

Although natural remedies may offer some relief, recurrent or intense motion sickness could indicate an underlying issue. Should you experience these symptoms frequently or at times unrelated to traveling, seek medical advice—conditions such as inner ear disturbances, neurological disorders, or even vitamin shortages might be responsible.

Watch for warning signs like:

• Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
• Blurred vision
• Disorientation or fainting
• Nausea unrelated to motion

When unsure, avoid self-diagnosis — consult a healthcare provider.

Have you ever given it a go?

Seatbelt on, window cracked, gum chewed — and still, the queasiness won’t quit. If you’ve been there, you’re not alone. But next time, a simple whiff of lemon could be the trick that changes everything.

Ever had luck with lemons for nausea when traveling? Do you have any other surefire tips for comfortable travels? Share your experiences—your story could make things easier for others hitting the road.

Sources:

Kim, M., Nam, E. S., & Paik, H. (2017). The effects of aromatherapy on nausea and vomiting in post-operative patients. Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice. ScienceDirect

Vanguard. "Essential Oils for Motion Sickness Relief Through Aromatherapy," published on July 15, 2023.

Mayo Clinic. Overview of motion sickness.

National Geographic Spain. "The Power of Scent: How It Influences Our Body and Emotions," 2022.

You might also like:

Ways to save extra lemons: methods for avoiding wastage of these wonderful citrus fruits

Identifying a Poor Restaurant: 7 Red Flags to Watch For

read more on en.