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9 Natural Remedies for Motion Sickness

Whether you travel by plane, automobile, train, or boat, if you've experienced motion sickness, you know how easy it can make your trip unpleasant. Besides a nauseating feeling, motion sickness can bring on dizziness, clammy hands, uneasiness, or vomiting.

While there's no single explanation for why only some people get motion sickness or why they can get it in some situations but not others, here are simple strategies that may help to prevent or reduce the symptoms.

Eat Small Meals and Stay Hydrated

Although it can be tempting to fill up before you travel to avoid eating packaged food on board, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends eating smaller, more frequent meals and drinking water.

Although the options can be very limited when you're traveling, avoid salty, spicy, or greasy foods and minimize your intake of caffeinated beverages and alcohol before and during your travel.

Be Aware of Situations That Trigger Symptoms

Do you get nauseous when you're riding in the second or third row of an SUV? Are you OK on a train, but tend to feel sick on buses? Knowing your triggers can help you avoid them. In a car or bus, for instance, sitting towards the front may help. On a train, face forward, avoiding seats that face backward. If you're flying, sit close to the wing of the plane. On a boat, try to sit at the front.

Tilt Your Head Into Turns

Synchronizing your body with the motion may help reduce motion sickness. Turns and rotary motion tend to cause more severe motion sickness than travel in a linear motion. Tilting your head into turns may help, according to a study published in Ergonomics in 2016.   Researchers found that passengers experienced less motion sickness when they tilted their heads into the direction of a turn (rather than away from turns) and kept their eyes open.

Practice Diaphragmatic Breathing

In a small study published in Aerospace Medicine and Human Performance in 2015, participants either practiced slow, diaphragmatic breathing (at six breaths per minute) or breathed normally while viewing a virtual reality simulation of a boat at rough seas.  

Those who practiced diaphragmatic breathing had greater heart rate variability (an indicator of autonomic nervous system activity) and reported feeling less motion sickness than those who breathed normally.  

Avoid Reading (or Computer Work) While in Transit

It may be tempting to catch up on work or sink into a good book, but reading or using a device like a computer or a tablet should be avoided, especially on a bumpy ride.   The balance center in your inner ear senses movement, but the words on the screen or page are still—these mixed messages can result in nausea.

Avoid Sudden or Rapid Head Movements

Avoid sudden or rapid head movements, especially those that involve twisting or turning. If you can, rest your head on the back of your seat or lie down with your eyes closed.

Look at the Horizon

For travel by boat, car, train, or bus, looking toward the horizon may help prevent motion sickness. In a study published in PLoS One , for instance, looking at the horizon while at sea reduced body sway (people who are prone to motion sickness tend to have more body sway while standing).   If you are on a boat, widening your stance may also reduce body sway.

Press on This Pressure Point

According to traditional Chinese medicine , pressing on an acupressure point called "pericardium 6," "P6," or "Nei-guan" may relieve nausea.   The point is located on the inner side of the forearm, about two inches (or three finger widths) above the crease of the wrist in between the two tendons.

There has been very little research on the effectiveness of acupressure for motion sickness but early research, which has focused on postoperative nausea and vomiting, suggests that acupressure may ease nausea.  

You can press on the point using the index finger of your opposite hand. Alternatively, acupressure wristbands, often marketed as "sea bands", are said to stimulate the point.   The bands are worn on the forearm and typically have a plastic button or bead that places pressure on the P6 point. The person wearing the band can also press the bead for additional stimulation. Acupressure bands typically cost less than $10 for a pair and can be found online or in some health food stores.

Consider Ginger Root

A widely used  remedy for nausea , ginger root is often taken in the form of lozenges, tea, capsules, tablets, crystallized root, candies, or ginger ale.

While studies suggest that ginger may possess some anti-nausea effects against nausea-inducing stimuli, the research is still inconclusive as to whether it can prevent motion sickness. Most of the studies are older, however, two small studies (one funded by NASA) found that ginger wasn't more effective than a placebo at reducing simulated motion sickness. Larger, well-designed studies are needed.

Ginger shouldn't be used within two weeks of surgery or by people taking "blood-thinning" medication or supplements, such as warfarin, because it may interfere with blood clotting and prolong bleeding time. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, don't use ginger without consulting your healthcare provider.

Bottom Line

If you get motion sickness, remedies may be worth considering, especially if you are not able to take medication. Keep in mind that scientific support is limited and that it's always a good idea to talk with your healthcare provider to weigh the pros and cons before trying any remedy.

Frequently Asked Questions

The exact mechanisms behind motion sickness and why some people are affected more than others are not yet understood. Motion sickness is more common in pregnant women, children under the age of 12, and people who get migraines.

Looking out the window during a car ride can help prevent motion sickness in the car. In particular, being behind the wheel, which forces you to look at the road and allows you to be in control of turns, is an often successful strategy for stopping car sickness.

Eating small snacks and taking little sips of water can help to ease motion sickness. Avoid anything spicy or greasy—stick with bland foods like toast or crackers. Minimize your caffeine intake and avoid alcoholic drinks.

Takov V, Tadi P. Motion Sickness . In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2020 Jan-.

National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. Complementary Health Approaches for Travelers .

Halson SL, Burke LM, Pearce J. Nutrition for Travel: From Jet lag To Catering . Int J Sport Nutr Exerc Metab. 2019;29(2):228-235.

Wada T, Yoshida K. Effect of passengers' active head tilt and opening/closure of eyes on motion sickness in lateral acceleration environment of cars . Ergonomics. 2016;59(8):1050-9.

Stromberg SE, Russell ME, Carlson CR. Diaphragmatic breathing and its effectiveness for the management of motion sickness . Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2015;86(5):452-7.

Lackner JR. Motion sickness: more than nausea and vomiting .  Exp Brain Res . 2014;232(8):2493–2510. doi:10.1007/s00221-014-4008-8

Stoffregen TA, Chen FC, Varlet M, Alcantara C, Bardy BG. Getting Your Sea Legs . PLoS ONE. 2013;8(6):e66949.

Ming JL, Kuo BI, Lin JG, Lin LC. The efficacy of acupressure to prevent nausea and vomiting in post-operative patients . J Adv Nurs. 2002;39(4):343-51.

Hofmann D, Murray C, Beck J, Homann R. Acupressure in Management of Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting in High-Risk Ambulatory Surgical Patients . J Perianesth Nurs. 2017;32(4):271-278.

Steele NM, French J, Gatherer-Boyles J, Newman S, Leclaire S. Effect of acupressure by Sea-Bands on nausea and vomiting of pregnancy .  J Obstet Gynecol Neonatal Nurs . 2001;30(1):61–70.

Lien HC, Sun WM, Chen YH, Kim H, Hasler W, Owyang C. Effects of ginger on motion sickness and gastric slow-wave dysrhythmias induced by circular vection .  Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol . 2003;284(3):G481–G489. doi:10.1152/ajpgi.00164.2002

Ernst E, Pittler MH. Efficacy of ginger for nausea and vomiting: a systematic review of randomized clinical trials .  Br J Anaesth . 2000;84(3):367–371. doi:10.1093/oxfordjournals.bja.a013442

Marx W, McKavanagh D, McCarthy AL, et al. The Effect of Ginger (Zingiber officinale) on Platelet Aggregation: A Systematic Literature Review [published correction appears in PLoS One. 2015;10(11):e0143675] .  PLoS One . 2015;10(10):e0141119. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0141119

Lackner JR.  Motion sickness: more than nausea and vomiting .  Exp Brain Res . 2014;232(8):2493-2510. doi:10.1007/s00221-014-4008-8

Koch A, Cascorbi I, Westhofen M, Dafotakis M, Klapa S, Kuhtz-Buschbeck JP.  The neurophysiology and treatment of motion sickness .  Dtsch Arztebl Int . 2018;115(41):687-696. doi:10.3238/arztebl.2018.0687

Hofmann D, Murray C, Beck J, Homann R. Acupressure in Management of Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting in High-Risk Ambulatory Surgical Patients. J Perianesth Nurs. 2017 Aug;32(4):271-278.

Stoffregen TA, Chen F-C, Varlet M, Alcantara C, Bardy BG. Getting Your Sea Legs. Balasubramaniam R, ed. PLoS ONE. 2013;8(6):e66949.

Stromberg SE, Russell ME, Carlson CR. Diaphragmatic breathing and its effectiveness for the management of motion sickness. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2015 May;86(5):452-7.

Wada T, Yoshida K. Effect of passengers' active head tilt and opening/closure of eyes on motion sickness in lateral acceleration environment of cars. Ergonomics. 2016 Aug;59(8):1050-9.

By Cathy Wong Cathy Wong is a nutritionist and wellness expert. Her work is regularly featured in media such as First For Women, Woman's World, and Natural Health.

14 natural remedies for travel sickness suitable for the whole family

Planning a holiday? You might want to take a look at these expert-approved travel sickness remedies that work for all modes of transport

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Planning a trip? If you or your family suffer from travel sickness you'll be eager to know what motion sickness treatments are available.

If you're off on a family holiday this summer then you've probably spent plenty of time researching the best car seats and brushing up on child car seat rules , and you're probably on the hunt for ways to keep travel sickness at bay too. Travel sickness – or motion sickness – can make travelling (or fairground rides, if you enjoy those) a miserable experience. It can occur when you travel by car, boat, plane or train, and as well as feeling nauseous or being sick, people may feel sweaty, dizzy, breathless or drowsy. 

Dr Donald Grant , GP and Clinical Lead at online pharmacy The Independent Pharmacy, says: "Travel sickness is a common worry for many travellers but your symptoms shouldn’t stop you from having a great trip. Although anyone can experience travel sickness, some groups are more likely to have symptoms including those with a pre-existing medical condition, pregnant women, women using hormonal birth control and children between the ages of 2 and 12." With that in mind, we've asked the experts to help put together a list of travel sickness remedies suitable for all members of the family...

Dr Don Grant (MB, ChB, DRCOG, MRCGP, Dip.orth.med) is the clinical lead at The Independent Pharmacy, an online pharmacy and healthcare resource based in the UK. Dr Grant specialises in orthopaedic medicine, and has extensive experience in change and development in Primary Care.

14 of the best natural remedies for travel sickness

Dr Grant says, "The key to effectively managing travel sickness lies in proactive preparation before car rides, flights, boat excursions, or any motion-intensive activities. By addressing your symptoms ahead of time, you can minimise their onset and feel more comfortable throughout the duration of your journey."

Travel sickness is caused by a miscommunication between our eyes and brain, because our brain is expecting a certain image, yet our eyes relay a different image because of the movement. It can be triggered by all kinds of repeated movements, such as going over bumps in the road, waves in the sea, swaying on a train, or turbulence on a plane.

Consuming ginger is a tried-and-tested natural remedy for treating nausea, and is an effective natural remedy for travel sickness too. 

Abbas Kanani , lead pharmacist at Chemist Click Online Pharmacy, further explains: "Scientific research has found that ginger and its compounds may increase digestive responsiveness and speed stomach emptying, which may reduce nausea," he says. "It seems to aid digestion and saliva flow, and its anti-inflammatory properties also support the release of blood-pressure-regulating hormones to calm your body and reduce nausea."

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Abbas graduated as a pharmacist in 2013 and spent the first three years working for high street multiples, including a senior management role with the largest multinational pharmacy in the UK. In 2017, he qualified as an independent prescriber, spending time working in a primary care setting. He then assumed a consulting role within the NHS, providing advisory services on cost savings and clinical efficiencies. He has been within Chemist Click since the very start and continues to play an integral role within the team.

"Ginger has long been a go-to for settling the stomach and is the best-studied herb for motion sickness," adds natural health expert Dr Tim Bond, from Puressentiel. He says "It's both safe and effective for many people," - making it a great remedy for all the family.  

You can consume ginger in various forms, such as ginger tea, ginger candies, or even ginger capsules.

2. Chewing gum

Chewing on gum can create a distraction that will take your mind away from travel sickness, while peppermint can help to relieve feelings of nausea. Of course, this is not a suitable remedy for young children as it is a choking hazard, but it may be an effective remedy for older members of the family - and any pregnant woman will tell you this can help with morning sickness during early signs of pregnancy .

For example, one study in the Journal of Experimental Brain Research found that chewing either ginger gum or peppermint gum during a simulated flight experience significantly reduced symptoms of travel sickness.

Abbas Kanani explains that peppermint is effective because "it contains compounds like menthol, which have a calming effect on the muscles of the stomach and can help reduce feelings of nausea and vomiting associated with travel sickness."

As well as gum, try drinking peppermint tea or sucking on peppermint sweets for a natural travel sickness remedy. 

3. Acupressure bands

One of the most well-regarded natural motion sickness treatments is the use of acupressure bands . These work on the pressure points in our wrists to stop feelings of nausea and are another drug-free, non-drowsy way to treat the condition.

A small study in the Journal of Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine found that those who wore an acupressure band on their wrist or arm experienced lessened travel sickness symptoms than those who did not wear any bands.

But you don't necessarily need to invest in acupressure bands to feel the benefit. Dr Deborah Lee from Dr Fox Online Pharmacy explains: "For nausea, the P6 pressure point, known as Neiguan, should be stimulated. If you turn your forearm over, this is situated around 1/6 of the way up the arm when measuring from the wrist to the elbow. It’s in the centre, between the two large tendons."

To do this, find the pressure point, then press down on it with your thumb, making steady circular movements for 2-3 minutes. This can be repeated as needed.

Having worked for many years in the NHS, mostly as Lead Clinician within an integrated Community Sexual Health Service, Dr Deborah Lee now works as a health and medical writer, with an emphasis on women's health, including medical content for Dr Fox pharmacy. She has published several books and remains passionate about all aspects of medicine and sexual health.

4. Aromatherapy

Certain natural scents are believed to help calm some of the symptoms of motion sickness. Peppermint and lavender are thought to be particularly effective, while inhaling these scents can also be a great distraction from being in motion.

Dr Bond explains: " Clinical research from 2020 supports the use of peppermint for both motion sickness and nausea, and lavender has many studies to show its efficacy on digestion, vomiting and travel sickness."

He recommends Puressentiel's SOS Travel Roll-On , explaining, "Each oil is selected for their anti-sickness and calming properties – exotic basil, fresh ginger, lemon, peppermint, red mandarin, sweet marjoram, and true lavender," says Dr Bond. "The roller is applied to wrists and temple pressure points."

5. Dry toast or crackers

You may not feel like eating if you know travelling makes you feel sick. But having a small, plain snack before – or while – you travel can keep nausea at bay.

Dr Lee exolains: "Eating small frequent meals can help those with nausea and vomiting. Crackers are bland but contain salt and carbohydrates – both of which can help if you feel weak and nauseated."

Chewing in itself has been found to help relieve travel sickness. A 2015 study from BioMed Research International found the process of mastication to be part of the stress relief response – and this may be why chewing gum can also help with travel sickness symptoms.

6. Stay hydrated

Dehydration can contribute to feelings of nausea, so sipping fluids is another way to prevent motion sickness.  And there is a certain amount of water you should drink a day , whether you're travelling or not.

Abbas Kanani explains: "When you're dehydrated, your body's fluid balance is disrupted. This imbalance can affect the inner ear, which plays a crucial role in maintaining your sense of balance."

He adds, "Make sure to drink plenty of water before and during your journey and avoid excessive consumption of caffeinated or sugary drinks, as they can contribute to dehydration."

Room temperature water or sparkling water work best as a travel sickness remedy, but - if you can stomach it - sports drinks, coconut water, ginger ale, and light broths can also be effective, and are all preferable to caffeinated, sugary or acidic drinks.

7. Chamomile tea

Chamomile has a reputation for being a calming and relaxing herb. By helping to reduce stress and anxiety it can also settle an upset stomach.

“Chamomile is also something some people opt for to settle their stomachs, particularly if they are feeling anxious or stressed," says Dr Bond. "Chamomile is believed to soothe the stomach, reduce acids and relax stomach muscles."

Try having a cup of chamomile tea the night before your travels to relax you, then another in the morning and during your trip if possible. 

8. Deep breathing

Breathing exercises are becoming an important part of wellness, as people realise that deep breathing can work as a natural anxiety remedy as well as reduce stress, panic and even physical symptoms such as nausea.

Dr Lee explains: "Nausea and vomiting are common symptoms of anxiety. Travel sickness makes us feel anxious, and anxiety makes the symptoms worse. Unsurprisingly then, anti-anxiety techniques such as diaphragmatic breathing can help reduce the nausea of travel sickness."

And research backs this up, with one study in the Journal of Aerospace Medicine and Human Performance finding that breathing deeply from the belly (known as diaphragmatic breathing) was effective at reducing the sensation of motion sickness during a virtual reality experience.

In order to do diaphragmatic breathing Dr Lee says, you need to breathe in using the diaphragm - which is the sheet of muscle that separates the chest from the abdomen. If you place your hand on your upper abdomen just under your ribs, then suck your tummy in as you breathe in, you will be filling your lungs using your diaphragm. 

Try counting slowly when you do this, by breathing in for 4 counts, holding for 7, then breathing out slowly for 8 counts. Do 4 cycles, slowly, and then repeat. You can do this as often as needed.

9. Keep distracted

If you don't want to - or can't - take any medication for travel sickness, it's heartening to know that simply being distracted has been shown to reduce symptoms. Talking, listening to music, playing a game or even singing songs can be helpful for kids struggling with feelings of motion sickness.

This has been supported by a study in the Journal of Vestibular Research , which found that participants who were distracted from motion sickness by performing a mental arithmetic task experienced reduced symptoms.

10. Focus on the horizon

Keeping your eyes on the horizon is easier to do on a boat, but it can be done on other modes of transport, too. If you're travelling by plane, try to reserve a seat by a window, and in a car it's best to sit in the front if you suffer from motion sickness.

Abbas Kanani explains: "By focusing on a distant point, such as a horizon or a stable object in the distance, you provide your visual system with a stable reference point. This helps to synchronize the information received by your eyes and your vestibular system, reducing the sensory conflict." 

Essentially, looking at the horizon is helping your brain better understand the motion and therefore reduces the likelihood of experiencing travel sickness symptoms. 

11. Get some fresh air

A stuffy environment won't help symptoms of travel sickness, so opening a car window or spending time on the deck of a boat will help ease nausea. If you're travelling by plane or train it can be harder to get fresh air, but a handheld fan can work wonders at keeping you cool and calm.

12. Don't look at a screen

Not reading or watching anything is probably one of the most important drug-free motion sickness treatments, because of the way your brain perceives motion.

Dr Lee says, "Trying to fix your gaze on a moving object on a screen, when sitting inside a moving object like a car, is only going to confuse your balance and proprioception even further. Scrolling is well known to cause cybersickness, even in those not travelling."

This also applies to watching something or a screen and even texting (sorry, kids!). If you are very bored, only read or watch something for a few minutes at a time, then take a break to stare at a fixed point, or try listening to music or an audiobook instead - both of which can help calm anxiety around travel sickness too.

13. Break up the journey

Regular stops, where you have a chance to stand on solid ground, can help to break up the monotony of long journeys. A rest stop also allows you to get fresh air, stretch your legs or have a drink or a snack, while being away from the motion of travel and get distracted by other activities.

14. Try to sleep

If you're not a napper, you're not tired, or you're driving, this won't work for you. But if you're able to get to sleep early on in the journey then you may be spared from feelings of travel sickness . Simply closing your eyes can be a distraction from the motion, or check out our list of 15 ways to fall asleep fast .

For children who suffer badly from motion sickness, it may be worth travelling at night, as this may mean they sleep through most of the trip.

How do you get rid of travel sickness fast?

The quickest way to reduce symptoms of travel sickness is to reduce motion. If you're in a situation where you're able to stop - such as in a car where you can safely pull over and take a break - this will be most effective.

However, you can trick your brain into thinking the motion has stopped by looking to the horizon - or you could even try anti-motion sickness smart glasses . These unusual-looking glasses have no lenses and instead, they use a liquid inside the frame of the glasses to mimic the horizon.

What is the best food to eat for travel sickness?

Light, dry and plain food is best to have before you set off on a journey if you suffer from travel sickness. Dr Lee adds, "It's generally advisable to eat small portions of light foods at regular intervals when travelling. Dry foods such as crackers, oat biscuits, or rice cakes are good options as they have no smell, and help fill the stomach."

Abbas Kanani adds that you should avoid eating a heavy meal before travelling. He says, "Eating a heavy meal before travelling can lead to increased gastric activity and digestion. This heightened activity can make your stomach more sensitive and prone to experiencing nausea or discomfort during the motion of travel. Instead, opt for light, easily digestible meals or snacks."

Can you take travel sickness tablets when pregnant?

According to the NHS , hyoscine hydrobromide - the drug used to treat travel sickness - is not recommended during pregnancy because not enough is known about its effects.

However, they add that our doctor may offer you hyoscine hydrobromide if you have severe travel sickness that cannot be treated any other way. Meanwhile, if you're breastfeeding it's ok to take hyoscine hydrobromide if it is in occasional doses for a short amount of time. 

If you are unsure whether travel sickness medication is an option for you, you should consult your GP.

Looking for more natural remedies? Check out these 14 hay fever remedies , these natural flu remedies and our natural remedies for insect bites , or try one of our expert-approved natural anxiety remedies .

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Motion sickness

Travel sickness.

Peer reviewed by Dr Hayley Willacy, FRCGP Last updated by Dr Colin Tidy, MRCGP Last updated 16 Mar 2023

Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines

In this series: Health advice for travel abroad Travelling to remote locations Ears and flying Jet lag Altitude sickness

Motion sickness (travel sickness) is common, especially in children. It is caused by repeated unusual movements during travelling, which send strong (sometimes confusing) signals to the balance and position sensors in the brain.

In this article :

What causes motion sickness, how long does motion sickness last, motion sickness symptoms, how to stop motion sickness, natural treatments for motion sickness, motion sickness medicines, what can a doctor prescribe for motion sickness, what should i do if i'm actually sick, what is mal de debarquement syndrome.

Continue reading below

Motion sickness is a normal response to repeated movements, such as going over bumps or around in a circle, send lots of messages to your brain. If you are inside a vehicle, particularly if you are focused on things that are inside the vehicle with you then the signals that your eyes send to the brain may tell it that your position is not changing, whilst your balance mechanisms say otherwise.

Your balance mechanisms in your inner ears sense different signals to those that your eyes are seeing which then sends your brain mixed, confusing messages. This confusion between messages then causes people to experience motion sickness.

Is motion sickness normal?

Motion sickness is a normal response that anyone can have when experiencing real or perceived motion. Although all people can develop motion sickness if exposed to sufficiently intense motion, some people are rarely affected while other people are more susceptible and have to deal with motion sickness very often.

Triggers for motion sickness

Motion sickness can also be triggered by anxiety or strong smells, such as food or petrol. Sometimes trying to read a book or a map can trigger motion sickness. Both in children and adults, playing computer games can sometimes cause motion sickness to occur.

Motion sickness is more common in children and also in women. Fortunately, many children grow out of having motion sickness. It is not known why some people develop motion sickness more than others. Symptoms can develop in cars, trains, planes and boats and on amusement park rides, etc.

Symptoms typically go when the journey is over; however, not always. In some people they last a few hours, or even days, after the journey ends.

There are various symptoms of motion sickness including::

Feeling sick (nausea and vomiting).

Sweating and cold sweats.

Increase in saliva.

Headaches .

Feeling cold and going pale.

Feeling weak.

Some general tips to avoid motion sickness include the following.

Prepare for your journey

Don't eat a heavy meal before travelling. Light, carbohydrate-based food like cereals an hour or two before you travel is best.

On long journeys, try breaking the journey to have some fresh air, drink some cold water and, if possible, take a short walk.

For more in-depth advice on travelling generally, see the separate leaflets called Health Advice for Travel Abroad , Travelling to Remote Locations , Ears and Flying (Aeroplane Ear) , Jet Lag and Altitude Sickness .

Plan where you sit

Keep motion to a minimum. For example, sit in the front seat of a car, over the wing of a plane, or on deck in the middle of a boat.

On a boat, stay on deck and avoid the cafeteria or sitting where your can smell the engines.

Breathe fresh air

Breathe fresh air if possible. For example, open a car window.

Avoid strong smells, particularly petrol and diesel fumes. This may mean closing the window and turning on the air conditioning, or avoiding the engine area in a boat.

Use your eyes and ears differently

Close your eyes (and keep them closed for the whole journey). This reduces 'positional' signals from your eyes to your brain and reduces the confusion.

Don't try to read.

Try listening to an audio book with your eyes closed. There is some evidence that distracting your brain with audio signals can reduce your sensitivity to the motion signals.

Try to sleep - this works mainly because your eyes are closed, but it is possible that your brain is able to ignore some motion signals when you are asleep.

Do not read or watch a film.

It is advisable not to watch moving objects such as waves or other cars. Don't look at things your brain expects to stay still, like a book inside the car. Instead, look ahead, a little above the horizon, at a fixed place.

If you are the driver you are less likely to feel motion sickness. This is probably because you are constantly focused on the road ahead and attuned to the movements that you expect the vehicle to make. If you are not, or can't be, the driver, sitting in the front and watching what the driver is watching can be helpful.

Treat your tummy gently

Avoid heavy meals and do not drink alcohol before and during travelling. It may also be worth avoiding spicy or fatty food.

Try to 'tame your tummy' with sips of a cold water or a sweet, fizzy drink. Cola or ginger ale are recommended.

Try alternative treatments

Sea-Bands® are acupressure bands that you wear on your wrists to put pressure on acupressure points that Chinese medicine suggests affects motion sickness. Some people find that they are effective.

Homeopathic medicines seem to help some people, and will not make you drowsy. The usual homeopathic remedy is called 'nux vom'. Follow the instructions on the packet.

All the techniques above which aim to prevent motion sickness will also help reduce it once it has begun. Other techniques, which are useful on their own to treat motion sickness but can also be used with medicines if required, are:

Breathe deeply and slowly and, while focusing on your breathing, listening to music. This has been proved to be effective in clinical trials.

Ginger - can improve motion sickness in some people (as a biscuit or sweet, or in a drink).

There are several motion sickness medicines available which can reduce, or prevent, symptoms of motion sickness. You can buy them from pharmacies or, in some cases, get them on prescription. They work by interfering with the nerve signals described above.

Medicines are best taken before the journey. They may still help even if you take them after symptoms have begun, although once you feel sick you won't absorb medicines from the stomach very well. So, at this point, tablets that you put against your gums, or skin patches, are more likely to be effective.

Hyoscine is usually the most effective medicine for motion sickness . It is also known as scopolamine. It works by preventing the confusing nerve messages going to your brain.

There are several brands of medicines which contain hyoscine - they also come in a soluble form for children. You should take a dose 30-60 minutes before a journey; the effect can last up to 72 hours. Hyoscine comes as a patch for people aged 10 years or over. (This is only available on prescription - see below.) Side-effects of hyoscine include dry mouth , drowsiness and blurred vision.

Side-effects of motion sickness medicines

Some medicines used for motion sickness may cause drowsiness. Some people are extremely sensitive to this and may find that they are so drowsy that they can't function properly at all. For others the effects may be milder but can still impair your reactions and alertness. It is therefore advisable not to drive and not to operate heavy machinery if you have taken them. In addition, some medicines may interfere with alcohol or other medication; your doctor or the pharmacist can advise you about this.

Antihistamines

Antihistamines can also be useful , although they are not quite as effective as hyoscine. However, they usually cause fewer side-effects. Several types of antihistamine are sold for motion sickness. All can cause drowsiness, although some are more prone to cause it than others; for example, promethazine , which may be of use for young children on long journeys, particularly tends to cause drowsiness. Older children or adults may prefer one that is less likely to cause drowsiness - for example, cinnarizine or cyclizine.

Remember, if you give children medicines which cause drowsiness they can sometimes be irritable when the medicines wear off.

See the separate article called How to manage motion sickness .

There are a number of anti-sickness medicines which can only be prescribed by your doctor. Not all of them always work well for motion sickness, and finding something that works may be a case of trial and error. All of them work best taken up to an hour before your journey, and work less well if used when you already feel sick. See also the separate leaflet called Nausea (Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment) for more detailed information about these medicines .

Hyoscine patch

Hyoscine, or scopolamine, patches are suitable for adults and for children over 10 years old. The medicine is absorbed through your skin, although this method of medicine delivery is slow so the patch works best if applied well before your journey.

You should stick the patch on to the skin behind the ear 5-6 hours before travelling (often this will mean late on the previous night) and remove it at the end of the journey.

Prochlorperazine

Prochlorperazine is a prescription-only medicine which works by changing the actions of the chemicals that control the tendency to be sick (vomit), in your brain. One form of prochlorperazine is Buccastem®, which is absorbed through your gums and does not need to be swallowed. Buccastem® tastes rather bitter but it can be effective for sickness when you are already feeling sick, as it doesn't have to be absorbed by the stomach.

Metoclopramide

Metoclopramide is a tablet used to speed up the emptying of your tummy. Slow emptying of the tummy is something that happens when you develop nausea and vomiting, so metoclopramide can help prevent this. It prevents nausea and vomiting quite effectively in some people. It can occasionally have unpleasant side-effects, particularly in children (in whom it is not recommended). Metoclopramide is often helpful for those who tend to have gastric reflux, those who have slow tummy emptying because of previous surgery, and those who have type 1 diabetes. Your GP will advise whether metoclopramide is suitable for you.

Domperidone

Domperidone , like metoclopramide, is sometimes used for sickness caused by slow tummy emptying. It is not usually recommended for motion sickness but is occasionally used if other treatments don't help. Domperidone is not a legal medicine in some countries, including the USA.

Ondansetron

Ondansetron is a powerful antisickness medicine which is most commonly used for sickness caused by chemotherapy, and occasionally used for morning sickness in pregnancy. It is not usually effective for motion sickness. This, and its relatively high cost means that it is not prescribed for motion sickness alone. However, for those undergoing chemotherapy, and for those who have morning sickness aggravated by travel, ondansetron may be helpful.

If you're actually sick you may find that this relieves your symptoms a little, although not always for very long. If you've been sick:

Try a cool flannel on your forehead, try to get fresh air on your face and do your best to find a way to rinse your mouth to get rid of the taste.

Don't drink anything for ten to twenty minutes (or it may come straight back), although (very) tiny sips of very cold water, coke or ginger ale may help.

After this, go back to taking all the prevention measures above.

Once you reach your destination you may continue to feel unwell. Sleep if you can, sip cold iced water, and - when you feel ready - try some small carbohydrate snacks. Avoid watching TV (more moving objects to watch!) until you feel a little better.

The sensation called 'mal de debarquement' (French for sickness on disembarking) refers to the sensation you sometimes get after travel on a boat, train or plane, when you feel for a while as though the ground is rocking beneath your feet. It is probably caused by the overstimulation of the balance organs during your journey. It usually lasts only an hour or two, but in some people it can last for several days, particularly after a long sea journey. It does not usually require any treatment.

Persistent mal de debarquement syndrome is an uncommon condition in which these symptoms may persist for months or years.

Dr Mary Lowth is an author or the original author of this leaflet.

Further reading and references

• Spinks A, Wasiak J ; Scopolamine (hyoscine) for preventing and treating motion sickness. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2011 Jun 15;(6):CD002851.
• Lackner JR ; Motion sickness: more than nausea and vomiting. Exp Brain Res. 2014 Aug;232(8):2493-510. doi: 10.1007/s00221-014-4008-8. Epub 2014 Jun 25.
• Leung AK, Hon KL ; Motion sickness: an overview. Drugs Context. 2019 Dec 13;8:2019-9-4. doi: 10.7573/dic.2019-9-4. eCollection 2019.
• Zhang LL, Wang JQ, Qi RR, et al ; Motion Sickness: Current Knowledge and Recent Advance. CNS Neurosci Ther. 2016 Jan;22(1):15-24. doi: 10.1111/cns.12468. Epub 2015 Oct 9.
• Van Ombergen A, Van Rompaey V, Maes LK, et al ; Mal de debarquement syndrome: a systematic review. J Neurol. 2016 May;263(5):843-854. doi: 10.1007/s00415-015-7962-6. Epub 2015 Nov 11.

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Next review due: 14 Mar 2028

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• Airlines + Airports

How to Avoid Motion Sickness on Airplanes

Where to sit, what to eat, and common mistakes to avoid.

For some, a flight is nothing more than being confined to one seat for an extended period of time. For others, that nightmare is only exemplified by the fact that they're bound to feel nauseous and — if the motion sickness gets the best of them — may even actually throw up when the turbulence gets bad enough.

Air sickness is a common plague for many travelers, but luckily there are some things you can do to better equip yourself against this annoying side effect.

The first thing in battling air sickness is knowing what it is. This issue occurs when your inner ear detects movement that your eyes aren't registering. This works in reverse, as well — if your eyes catch movement that your body doesn't detect, say when you're watching a particularly bumpy movie scene, you can become motion sick without even moving.

According to the University of Maryland Medical Center , this imbalance can cause a number of symptoms: cold sweats, pale skin, headaches, dizziness, nausea, increased salivation, fatigue, and vomiting. A 2015 study pulling data from genetics group 23andme in the Oxford Academic on Human Molecular Genetics shared that roughly one in three people suffer from car sickness, the causes of which are incredibly similar to air sickness.

It's also been found that motion sickness is aggravated by anxiety and stress, meaning it doesn't necessarily go away after your flight. But there are a few easy ways to avoid these side effects, or at least help kick them to the curb after they've already started.

Skip the Reading Session

While doctors recommend zoning in on a stable scene or horizon line when you're experiencing motion sickness, reading isn't going to improve your situation at all. What you're doing is adding even more movement that could further mess with your inner equilibrium.

Pick Your Airplane Seat Carefully

The seats closer to the front of the airplane and directly on the plane wings are a little more stable than others, cutting down on the movement of your body during the flights. Just like on a bus, the further back you go, the bumpier it is.

Watch What You Eat Before Your Flight

The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association recommends eating a light meal the night before and day of flying. Avoid taking in a lot of calories, and skip salty foods. Salty foods only aggravate dehydration, which also happens on flights where the air is drier (pro tip: drink lots of water). Also skip any greasy foods that would regularly upset your stomach.

Use the Air Vents to Your Advantage

Direct airflow can make a world of difference when you're experiencing motion sickness symptoms in a confined space, such as an airplane seat. Look to the air vent above your seat to provide a bit of relief in times of nausea and distress.

Acupressure

Way back in 1995, there was a study published in the Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine journal sharing that performing acupressure on yourself can lessen your motion sickness. So, what is acupressure? The act of stimulating various pressure points on your body to better circulate the flow of energy throughout the body.

For motion sickness, try using your thumb to push into your wrist about two inches down from the crease of your wrist. Hold it down for a few minutes with varying pressures to find out what works best for you.

Give 'Verbal Placebos' a Try

A study in the Journal of Applied Psychology shared the effects of telling naval cadets in the Israel Defense Forces that they were unlikely to have seasickness and that if they did, it was unlikely to affect their work performance at all. At the end of the five-day experiment, there was less reported seasickness.

What you can do: Have someone close to you reassure you that you won't suffer from motion sickness and start training yourself to worry less about it. Pick a mantra, something like "I can control my motion sickness," to recite during particularly trying moments mid-flight.

Opt for Ginger Ale

Ginger is great for your digestive system. Once that beverage cart hits the cabin, ask for a can of ginger ale to sip. Avoid taking large gulps — you don't want any air bubbles to add to your stomach discomfort. Hard ginger candies can also do wonders for an upset stomach.

Pack Some Dramamine

If all else fails, they do make medication to help curb motion sickness. Be careful, though: Some of these medications can cause severe drowsiness. But hey, sleeping through your flight is a great alternative to spending it in the cramped airplane bathroom.

Related Articles

No Patches, Pills, or Tablets: Seven Natural Seasickness Remedies

by Oceanwide Expeditions Blog

Regions: Antarctica, Arctic

Natural tips for combating seasickness

Seasickness is a common issue that affects many of our passengers, which is why we sell motion sickness medication on our vessels and recommend guests bring their own. But what if you'd rather avoid drugs in favor of more natural treatments?

Well, it turns out there are plenty of motion sickness remedies at your disposal. 

1. Eat right, light, and include ginger to avoid motion sickness

The most important thing is to stay hydrated. Even if you do have to - ahem - refund your lunch, being dehydrated will make that so much worse. Also, don't eat heavy foods or anything that typically upsets your system, even just a little. Foods that may lead to the slightest discomfort on land can precipitate an avalanche of seasickness while on the water. A chunky, half-digested avalanche even the fish won't touch. Instead, eat a small portion of something bland and preferably high in protein, like peanut butter and crackers, until your stomach is stable. Many people swear by ginger in any form, as tea or candy or in a tablet, as well as peppermint.

2. Leave out the booze to alleviate the seasickness 

A dry martini may settle your nerves, but it won't settle your stomach if the sea gets bumpy.

Alcohol also dehydrates you, which not only exacerbates the effects of motion sickness, but is one of the chief reasons hangovers make you feel like a tumble-dried gym sock that skipped the wash. We recommend avoiding the booze until your stomach's up for it.

3. Try acupressure wristbands 

Many seafaring travelers find the best way to naturally avoid seasickness is to literally put pressure on it. Acupressure wristbands or travel acupuncture needles, neither of which are painful, can be lifesavers. 

These items not only treat motion sickness, but they can even be useful against anxiety, headaches, and other maladies.

4. Watch the horizon (a longstanding seasickness cure) and keep your face cool

These age-old motion sickness remedies, often tied together, will probably be your best bet. Keeping your eyes locked on the horizon will eventually get the message to your brain that the world itself isn't swinging back and forth.

And being outside with the bracing wind on your face will help too. At the very least, you'll have a better chance of seeing the polar wildlife there. 

5. Remember: less agitation = less regurgitation

Sometimes it's all about location, location, location.

If seasickness is threatening to overtake you, get to the part of the ship where you'll experience the least motion. Less motion means less disagreement between your eyes and ears. We recommend the center of the ship and the lowest possible deck.

6. Keep clear of other seasick passengers

If you're a sympathetic sort of person, you may feel inclined to help your fellow passengers with their motion sickness - especially if you know them personally and/or they're sharing your cabin. But this can do more harm than good. Seasickness can be catchy, kind of like yawning. And the smell won't do you any favors either.

7. If all else fails, ask the ship doctor for motion sickness meds

Okay, so this clearly isn't another natural seasickness remedy.

But if all the tips we've mentioned don't help, it's time to avail yourself of modern science. Don't worry, motion sickness meds are safe and effective and always at your disposal during your voyage. Meds like scopolamine are among our favorites, and though some may make you drowsy, that's a whole lot better than an ongoing need to hork.

Motion sickness is a major hurdle for many people, and for some it's enough to put them off the idea of an Arctic trip or Antarctica cruise altogether. But it does't have to be that way. 

Taking care of seasickness early with a few natural remedies (and being open to medicinal help if those remedies don't work) will help keep your polar adventure happy and your food in your stomach, where it belongs.

Seasickness tips straight from the ship doctor

One of the ailments our ship doctors are most familiar with is seasickness, so who better to offer expert advice on how to keep the queasiness away while you sail with us? Here is our longtime ship doctor Ninette van Es to give you her most tried-and-true seasickness remedies.

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• About Trudy

Live & Travel Well for a Healing Journey...

Motion sickness natural remedies and tips for a healthy journey.

Motion sickness natural remedies can save a fun vacation from going bad.  Planning ahead with certain remedies on your wellness travel packing list can help prevent a misadventure.  As an Acupuncturist-at-Sea on cruise ships, I have treated countless people for motion sickness with acupuncture, acupressure points and herbs.  So, I can attest from experience everything I write about in this article.

Put simply, motion sickness is caused by your senses being confused.  The brain can’t handle the mixed signals from unusual movements. This causes uncomfortable symptoms, such as, dizziness, pale skin, headaches, loss of appetite, increased saliva production and even vomiting.  Many people also get anxiety along with the motion sickness, especially if they are not able to escape doing what is making them sick. 

Motion Sickness Natural Remedies and Tips

Firstly, proactively doing things to prevent motion sickness will help you more than anything. If you wait until you are sick and vomiting, it’s much more difficult to reverse the situation.  If you know you are prone to getting motion sickness, plan ahead.  The medications have side effects that leave most people tired and lethargic.  So, it’s vital to know what you can do naturally without negative side effects.  Here are some tips:

Avoid alcohol and heavy meals Avoid Reading Breathe fresh air and avoid hot temperatures Sit in the front seat or front of bus Sit on the wing of an airplane Stay on the upper decks of a ship Drink/Eat Ginger tea or fresh ginger and green apples Look at a stable object, like the horizon on a ship Receive Acupuncture/Acupressure treatments Wear motion sickness wristband

Acupuncture and Acupressure Points for Motion Sickness

The wristbands that people wear for motion sickness have magnets to activate the acupuncture point on the inner wrist, Pericardium 6 (PC-6).  However, I observed many of my patients on ships wore this band incorrectly.  It often moves off center from the PC-6 area or cling tight around the wrist, obstructing circulation which can bring on carpal tunnel symptoms. 

A thorough acupuncture treatment within 24 hours before the motion is best.  Important acupuncture points that I always include in my treatments are Pericardium 6, Stomach 36, Ren-12 and Shen Men in the ear.  Plus, I apply Acupuncture seeds (mustard seeds on a sticker) on the inner wrist of Pericardium 6 and in the ear’s Shen Men for the patient to keep on before and during the motion.

Also, you can apply self-acupressure on PC-6 at any time.  It’s located on the inner wrist, 2 thumbs width from wrist crease in center between 2 tendons.

My Experience with these Natural Remedies and Acupuncture

Finally, I also want to mention my personal testimony for these tips.  Throughout my life I suffered with motion sickness.  So, when I started working on a cruise ship after becoming an Acupuncturist, I applied these tips to my daily routine.  After spending more than 3 years at sea on ships, I never lost a day to motion sickness because I always apply the mustard seed to PC-6 and the ear’s Shen Men 24/7.  And I heeded all those tips mentioned above.

Overall, Motion Sickness Natural Remedies

It’s so unfortunate and unnecessary to spend a vacation with motion sickness.  So, take it from me, after seeing these natural remedies and Acupuncture help countless people enjoy their vacation:  Prepare and use these remedies and tips for a healthy journey.

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Trudy Wendelin, L.Ac

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Travel sickness remedies that’ll make your trips easier

We all love to travel, it’s fun to travel. But for some of us, straying away from our usual eating and sleeping habits can make it more likely for someone to get travel sickness. Your body will take time to adjust to the environment, food, water, and other elements when traveling. 

The fancy word for travel sickness is “Kinetosis” but it’s the same as car sickness, plane sickness and seasickness. It happens when the body feels sick in reaction to being moved about.

There is no exact reason why one would get sick when traveling.

What can we do to avoid travel sickness?

You might be thinking that motion or travel sickness occurs only in kids. But have you wondered if can you develop motion sickness as you get older? The shortest answer to that is, YES! Age is not a factor here; it can happen to anyone.

What happens when you get travel sickness is that the vestibular system detects movement and sends a signal to your brain that you’re on the move and it reacts by making you feel sick, resulting in feeling uneasy, vomiting or even having tummy trouble.

In reality, there are things you could do to reduce the feeling of motion sickness. Sometimes it’s easier said than done but early planning and smart thinking can help keep you from feeling sick while traveling.

First things first, let’s find out the symptoms of travel sickness.

The worse part of travel sickness is that it can take you by surprise. You may feel good and chirpy one moment and then the next minute you could experience these symptoms:

• Increased saliva, nausea and vomiting.
• Cold sweats.
• Drowsiness.
• Irritability.
• Inability to concentrate.
• Rapid breathing or gulping for air.

Things you should know about car sickness in kids and how to avoid It

If you’re susceptible to motion sickness in a car, you can try out these things to prevent nausea.

Let your kid sit in the front seat – The front seat usually experiences less vibration than the back seat.

• Elevate – Elevate your car seat so that kids can look out the window. (This can help them distract their minds instead of becoming carsick).

Fact – Experts believe that older or taller kids experience less motion sickness than smaller kids because they can see out the window.

• Place the kids in a different seat – If you have a kid prone to car sickness place him/her in the middle of the back seat. Motivate them to look out the front window instead of the side windows.
• Don’t let your kids focus on anything still or read – Switch on the radio or strike up a conversation to keep their minds off how they’re feeling. Don’t allow them to read or stare at a screen, just distract them or make them look out the window.
• Let in some fresh air – Crack open the window and let some fresh, cool air circulate in the vehicle.
• Take some snacks on your journey – Let your kid much on some snacks as hunger aggravates car sickness (but don’t let them fill themselves up too much).
• Stop for a while – If your child starts to get travel sickness, stop the vehicle and let them walk around or stretch out a bit. In addition, making them lie down with their eyes closed for some time can also help.
• Drink water or a carbonated beverage – Sip on some cold water or a carbonated drink, like seltzer or ginger ale, can also curb nausea.

Good to know – Don’t take caffeinated beverages, like coffee and sodas, which may lead you to dehydration and make nausea worse.

• Dimenhydrinate
• Diphenhydramine
• Ondansetron
• Scopolamine
• Metoclopramide

These medications are only available by prescription and may not be appropriate for younger children. If your child’s motion sickness symptoms are severe or last longer than a few hours after you have arrived at your destination, contact your doctor.

Natural remedies

If you prefer a more natural remedy instead of OTC or prescription pills, these are some natural remedies for travel sickness.

• Ginger – Ginger works well when it comes to slowing down car sickness. There is no recommended dosage of ginger, however, the University of Maryland Medical Center suggests that the adult dose is 250 milligrams for grownups, which means kids will require less.
• Acupressure – This medical procedure is an alternative one like acupuncture. Consider wearing an acupressure wristband which is a low-risk and cheap treatment for car sickness.
• Aromatherapy – For nausea and motion sickness, you can try aromatherapy. Dab some essential oil on a small piece of tissue or put it inside an inhaler. Some fragrances that can help in this are lavender, spearmint, or peppermint. Other options are ginger, cinnamon and cardamom.

Recipes to Try

The following homemade recipes are also recommended for car travel sickness.

• The ingredients – 1 drop each of basil and peppermint plus one drop or two teaspoons of Lavender carrier oil. Mix the two ingredients in the carrier oil. Rub the hands to make the oil warm. Massage over the stomach gently or inhale for several seconds.
• The ingredients – 10 drops each of ginger, peppermint, and Roman chamomile. Combine the essential oils in a clear amber bottle. Breathe a few drops from an inhaler 30 to 60 minutes before traveling and every 15 minutes while on the road.

PLEASE NOTE – Like many other medications both of these medications may occur side effects, including drowsiness, so don’t be surprised if your kid arrives at your destination feeling dazed. However, it is highly advisable to check with your doctor before giving any new medication to your child.

All of the above tips may also be used as a preventative measure to avoid travel sickness. If you learn that even one of these solutions relieves your child’s symptoms, consider orienting it before leaving on your trip, and maybe you could avoid them from motion sickness.

Preventing airplane motion sickness naturally

These are some things you can do naturally without any medication.

• Select a seat over the wings – The plane’s center of gravity is less liable to vibration.
• Choose a window seat
• Relax – Listen to some calming music and try to chill out. Try to get the idea of getting travel sickness.
• Stay seated – Walking around may cause your body to have even more motion.
• Eat well – Eat well but avoid the oily food before boarding. Take something light but eat your fill. And don’t forget to take some snacks or crackers along with you as hunger makes air sickness worse.

Unfortunately, when airsickness strikes, you’re stuck on the plane and have no place to go but to stay in your seat. However, planes have air sickness bags.

Well, there you go that was my list of Travel sickness remedies that’ll make your trips easier. So, don’t have any setbacks on travel, just try out these solutions and have an awesome trip like you have ever before! And if you want to plan an amazing getaway, we at Travel Centre US will be more than happy to point you in the proper direction.

Sabina Juriansz

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11 Natural Cures for Travel Ailments

Christine Sarkis

There's a 95 percent chance Senior Editor Christine Sarkis is thinking about travel right now. Follow her on Instagram @postcartography and Twitter @ChristineSarkis .

Christine Sarkis is an SATW-award-winning journalist and executive editor at SmarterTravel. Her stories have also appeared on USA Today, Conde Nast Traveler, Huffington Post, and Business Insider. Her advice has been featured in dozens of print and online publications including The New York Times , Conde Nast Traveler , and People magazine. She has also shared travel tips on television and radio shows including Good Morning America, Marketplace, and Here & Now. Her work has been published in the anthologies Spain from a Backpack and The Best Women's Travel Writing 2008 . She is currently working on a travel memoir.

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From jet lag to sunburn, the body takes a beating while we’re out exploring the world. Some ailments can be assuaged by a well-timed painkiller, but there’s also a whole world of effective natural remedies that are easy to pack and handy in a pinch. We asked Dr. Kate Brainard, one of the resident naturopathic doctors at Pharmaca , as well as Dr. Karen Hurley of Bastyr University for the best tips about staying healthy naturally on vacation.

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Jet lag, which occurs when your sleep-wake cycle is disrupted by a flight across multiple time zones, can ruin you for the first few days of your vacation.

On flights, Dr. Brainard suggests using Miers Laboratory No-Jet-Lag , a blend of five homeopathic remedies that she calls "safe, easy to take, and proven effective in tests." She also recommends melatonin. "Melatonin is the hormone our bodies make to regulate the sleep-wake cycle—taking extra in a supplement form may help to reset the cycle disrupted by jet lag."

Travel Anxiety

Travel is one of life's greatest thrills, but for most people it also comes with its share of stresses. Travel anxiety can really take you out of the moment, and since you want to enjoy every minute of vacation, it's an affliction worth treating.

Dr. Hurley recommends Bach Flower Rescue Remedy , a blend of five flower-essence formulas, stating that it can be "very helpful." Dr. Brainard suggests L-Theanine, an amino acid found in green tea that "supports mental calmness and relaxation by increasing dopamine and GABA in the brain. … without any drowsiness." She also recommends kava kava, a popular ceremonial drink in Polynesia that "supports relaxation from tension, encourages a sense of well-being, and promotes relaxation of nerves and muscles," all without disturbing mental clarity. Other natural stress reducers in her travel-anxiety arsenal include WishGarden Emotional Ally and Jarrow Formulas GABA Soothe .

Motion Sickness

Ever felt the dizziness, fatigue, nausea, or vomiting that comes with a bad case of motion sickness? Then you know that the malady, which can strike motion-sensitive travelers in the air, on land, or at sea, can transform you from capable traveler to puddle of misery in just a few minutes.

Dr. Brainard recommends PSI bands, "adjustable wristbands that apply acupressure to help relieve the symptoms of nausea and vomiting." She also suggests traveling with a concentrated-peppermint product and taking vitamin B6 or homeopathic Gelsemium Sempervire 30C by Boiron, both of which are known to relieve motion sickness. Dr. Hurley adds that ginger chews or ginger tea can also be helpful.

Traveler's Diarrhea

People only give nicknames to things they know well, so the fact that traveler's diarrhea (TD) has so many monikers—Montezuma's revenge and Delhi belly among them—should tip you off to just how common the ailment is. Caused by everything from unfamiliar food and water to contamination, it's worth taking extra steps to avoid.

With so much new input during travel, the microbial balance in the digestive tract can be easily disturbed. Dr. Brainard says, "It's important to plan ahead and supplement with probiotics to give the immune and digestive tract a head start." She suggests starting a good probiotic a few weeks before leaving "to build up healthy colonies of friendly flora." And you can't go wrong, says Dr. Brainard, sticking to bottled water from a trusted source and making sure to wash your hands frequently. If you are hit with TD while traveling, try UrgentRx Upset-Stomach Relief. These pocket-sized packets are easy to transport and can be taken with or without water.

Even one bad sunburn in childhood or adolescence can double a person's risk of developing melanoma, so when it comes to the sun, preventing overexposure is key. When choosing a sunscreen, Dr. Brainard says that "it's vital to always choose a broad-spectrum product that protects against both UVA and UVB rays." Sun-protection factor (SPF) ratings measure only UVB rays, which are largely responsible for both burns and cancer, but it's important to protect against UVA rays as well, since they "penetrate deeper and are responsible for premature aging and wrinkling of the skin." Of the more natural sunscreen brands on the market, Dr. Brainard recommends Sanitas, Eco Logical Skin Care, Kiss My Face, Badger, La Roche Posay, and Alba Botanica products.

Treatment can't fix a sunburn, but it can offer some soothing relief. Dr. Brainard recommends All Terrain Aloe Skin Repair with healing herbs or Boiron Calendula Lotion. She also notes that rehydrating after being out in the sun all day is important, and she suggests coconut water as a good way to get more electrolytes than with water alone.

Sleep Problems

After being in transit for hours, you finally arrive at your hotel room, settle in to bed, turn out the light, and … are hit with a serious case of insomnia. Sound familiar? Whether it's the exhaustion of travel, the excitement of being in a new place, or the discomfort of an unfamiliar bed or pillow, sleep problems can turn a good vacation bad overnight.

Luckily, there are a number of natural options for improving sleep. At the most basic level, you can try an eye mask and earplugs to block out stimuli. Dr. Brainard recommends a magnesium supplement before bed to "promote relaxation and calmness." For more stubborn sleep issues, she suggests Herb Pharm Relaxing Sleep Tonic, an "herbal blend with valerian, sold in a small one-ounce size convenient for travel." The product Deep Sleep by Herbs, Etc. is another option "designed to help with difficulties falling asleep or staying asleep, or [with] low-quality sleep."

Sore Or Tight Muscles

Aching muscles everywhere prove that airplane seats were not designed with comfort in mind. Long flights in small seats, extended car rides, and heavy bags make sore muscles a given. But a few handy and easy-to-pack remedies can get you back in fighting form quickly enough to enjoy your full vacation.

If your destination has a bathtub, Dr. Brainard recommends getting into a warm bath full of Epsom salts to help relax your muscles. Another effective treatment is arnica (in homeopathic-tablet or topical-cream form), since it "helps to relieve stiffness, swelling, bumps, bruises, trauma, and inflammation. Arnica is nondrowsy, has no side effects, and is safe to use with other medications and with children." Dr. Brainard recommends Boiron Arnica Montana 30C pellets, because "they're small, easy to transport, and do not require water to consume." Topically, she suggests Boiron Arnica Cream, Boericke & Tafel Arniflora Arnica Gel, or, for kids, Hyland's Bumps 'n' Bruises with arnica. For lingering pain, Solaray IbuActin is "a great alternative to ibuprofen … it's a blend of anti-inflammatory and analgesic herbs and enzymes to help relieve minor pain and inflammation."

Insect Bites And Stings

Bugs have impeccable taste in vacation destinations. They love beaches, nature, and beautiful sunsets. But they really are terrible travel companions—at best, their bites leave you swollen and itchy, at worst, infected with an insect-borne disease such as malaria, dengue fever, or West Nile virus.

So there are some compelling reasons to discourage bugs from biting you in the first place. Dr. Brainard recommends WishGarden Catnip-Oil Bug Spray as an alternative to DEET-based toxic bug sprays. According to Dr. Brainard, "Recent research from Iowa State University shows that catnip oil has produced the best results over other essential oils for bug protection." Other DEET-free options she recommends include All Terrain Herbal Armor, made with "a blend of five EPA-approved oils that provide protection for two hours against ticks, gnats, flies, ants, black flies, and other insects," and BiteBlocker, which has been proven more effective than DEET against mosquitoes. If you do get bitten or stung, try Boericke & Tafel SssstingStop, says Dr. Brainard.

And if you're one of those people who seems to get mosquito bites no matter what you apply to your skin, Dr. Brainard suggests taking vitamin B1 (thiamine) starting about two weeks before your departure to buggier climes. "Thiamine is believed to help repel bugs by creating an odor undetected by humans that bugs are repelled by," she explains.

Scrapes And Bruises

Scrapes and bruises are a part of life. When you're at home, you've likely got a medicine cabinet full of fixes, but on the road, your options tend to be more limited. Packing a few natural remedies can keep you prepared for the minor injuries that sometimes accompany grand vacation adventures.

Dr. Brainard suggests arnica for scrapes and bruises (and since it's also a great option for sore muscles, it really earns its place in any suitcase). She also likes tea-tree oil as a natural first-aid antiseptic alternative. She also suggests Herb Pharm Original Salve , a "soothing topical skin salve made with organic herbs and olive oil and wild-crafted beeswax." She says, "I use this salve for just about everything that needs soothing or moisture, including chapped lips and hangnails."

Digestive Issues

New foods, unfamiliar water, and schedule changes can wreak havoc on the digestive tract. However, if you take a few preventative measures in advance and make sure to have a few quick-acting remedies on hand for when digestive issues strike, an upset stomach doesn't have to derail any of your vacation plans.

When mild discomfort does strike, Dr. Brainard suggests keeping Pharmaca Chewable Papaya Enzymes on hand to "promote healthy digestion by breaking down carbohydrates and proteins." If you're headed to a place where the food may present a greater challenge to your digestive tract, Dr. Brainard recommends digestive enzymes such as MegaZymes by MegaFood or Complete Digestion by Enzyme Science. WishGarden Digestive Bitters, Dr. Brainard says, can "help balance the pH of the stomach and ease an acidic tummy" and Hyland's Upset Stomach is a "homeopathic, charcoal-based formula designed to relieve gas and bloating from overeating or improper diet." And if you're struck with food poisoning, Dr. Brainard says Peaceful Mountain Stomach Rescue is "an all-natural, simple formula of elemental silver and peppermint to kill bad bacteria and soothe an upset tummy from food poisoning."

Altitude Sickness

You don't have to be on a mountain to get hit with altitude sickness. The malady can strike anyone traveling to high-altitude destinations (think Santa Fe or Guadalajara). Occurring when your body can't get enough oxygen from the air, altitude sickness causes sufferers to get headaches, lose their appetites, and have sleeping problems.

There's no telling who will get altitude sickness; luckily, there are some effective natural remedies. Dr. Brainard suggests Herbs, Etc. ChlorOxygen, "a concentrated form of chlorophyll that can help boost hemoglobin and the production of red-blood cells. By boosting hemoglobin, you are boosting your oxygen-carrying capacity." Basically, you're helping your body do more with less. She also suggests reishi medicinal mushrooms in the form of "potent immune and cardiovascular tonics that can help you to adapt to stress from altitude sickness." Another option is rhodiola rosea, an "adaptogenic herb known to combat fatigue, increase energy, and promote faster adaptation to climatic changes." For best effect, Dr. Brainard recommends beginning your supplementation two to three weeks before you head to higher elevations.

More From Smartertravel:

• World's Worst Places to Get a Sunburn (and How to Prevent It)
• Seven Risky Foods to Avoid While Traveling
• The 10 Germiest Places You Encounter While Traveling

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Traveling into Thin Air: Altitude Sickness Prevention (+ 4 Natural Treatments)

By Jillian Levy, CHHC

March 17, 2018

Not only do higher altitudes change the pressure your body feels and impact the amount of oxygen that’s made available to you, but many high-altitude environments are also cold, have low humidity, and may have increased ultraviolet radiation. All of these environmental factors affect how you feel — and sometimes they can lead to symptoms like nausea , trouble breathing and weakness.

Altitude sickness is definitely uncomfortable, but is it dangerous, or potentially even deadly? Although it’s rare, a severe case of altitude sickness can potentially be life-threatening. However, most people only experience mild or moderate altitude sickness symptoms, which should go away as the body has a chance to acclimate to its new location. Luckily, if you’re someone who likes to travel, there are certain prevention steps and natural remedies that can greatly lower the chances you’ll suffer from altitude sickness.

What Is Altitude Sickness?

Altitude sickness symptoms are caused by being at a higher elevation, or altitude, than your body is accustomed to. The word altitude refers to the “height of an object or point in relation to sea level or ground level.” ( 1 ) Most people experience altitude sickness when they are at altitudes of 8,000 feet (or about 2,440 meters) above sea level or higher. ( 2 )

Symptoms of altitude sickness are most likely to begin shortly after entering a higher altitude than you’re accustomed to, especially if you do so quickly (such as after traveling in an airplane). The underlying reason that your body might respond negatively to being at a high altitude is due to the barometric pressure dropping and there being less oxygen available the higher you go above sea level. The higher you go above the Earth’s surface, the less dense the air is, and the harder your body has to work to take in enough oxygen.

What are some of the highest-altitude locations throughout the world that are notorious for provoking altitude sickness? These include popular climbing/hiking destinations like: ( 3 )

• Cuzco (11,000 feet or 3,300 meters above sea level)
• La Paz (12,000 feet or 3,640 meters high)
• Lhasa (12,100 feet or 3,650 meters high)
• Everest Base Camp (17,700 feet or 5,400 meters high)
• Kilimanjaro (19,341 feet or 5,895 meters high)

Signs and Symptoms

There are three primary types of altitude sickness: ( 4 )

• Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS)  — This is the most common type of altitude sickness, which according to some studies may affect about 25–27 percent of all people traveling above 9,800 feet (3,000 meters). Other studies have found that up to 53 percent of people developed acute mountain sickness when traveling above 13,800 feet (4,232 meters). It’s not as dangerous as the two other types, but can sometimes progress and become worse.
• High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE)  — This is a severe progression of AMS and is rare but serious. It happens when the brain swells with fluid, which disrupts normal cognitive functioning and is considered an emergency. Swelling in the brain can quickly cause damage to brain tissue. While it doesn’t happen very often at all, HACE can become dangerous if not treated within 24 hours. It’s recommended that anyone with HACE descend to lower ground immediately to prevent fatal symptoms.
• High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) — HAPE is also rare and sometimes occurs with AMS or HACE. It develops when the lungs become swollen and filled with fluid, disrupting respiratory functions due to constriction and pressure. This tends to affect people going above 14,000 feet (4,270 meters). The most obvious signs are breathlessness even at rest, weakness and cough. Like HACE, if not treated HAPE can be fatal. It’s recommended that anyone with HACE get treated immediately with oxygen and descend to lower ground.

How dangerous is altitude sickness?

You can see that depending on the type, it can be very serious or even fatal. Mild-to-moderate altitude sickness symptoms are sometimes said to mimic those of the flu or even a hangover due to drinking too much alcohol. Symptoms tend to occur within hours after arrival at a high altitude (usually between two–12 hours) and tend to get worse overnight or when trying to sleep.

The most common altitude sickness symptoms include: ( 5 )

• Headaches , which are sometimes  severe
• Nausea or vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Sleep disturbances
• Shortness of breath and easily becoming exerted
• Fatigue, low energy levels
• Irritability
• Pallor and paleness
• Inability to exercise
• Loss of coordination and disorientation
• In the case of HACE, severe drowsiness, confusion, poor coordination, difficulty with balance and walking. Some may also experience memory loss, hallucinations and psychotic episodes
• In the case of HAPE, lots of trouble breathing, coughing and wheezing, tightness in the chest, confusion, irritability and sometimes the feeling of suffocating

How long does it take to recover from altitude sickness and adjust to high altitudes?

Most people need about two to five days to acclimate and feel better, depending on the kind of altitude sickness they have. AMS symptoms usually decrease within two to three days. If possible, it’s best to stay at an altitude of about 8,000–9,000 feet for several days to adjust before continuing to ascend up to higher altitudes.

Causes and Risk Factors

Altitude sickness is caused by the body experiencing hypoxic stress — a condition in which the body or a region of the body is deprived of adequate oxygen supply at the tissue level. The severity of altitude sickness depends on: how high of an altitude you reach, your rate of ascent, and the duration of the exposure.

Risk factors for experiencing altitude sickness include:

• Ascending to a high altitude quickly.
• Being in not only a high altitude location, but also one that is very cold and uncomfortable.
• Doing intense physical activity/training once at a higher altitude (especially within the first day).
• Sleeping at a higher altitude, rather than only doing a day-trip and later returning to lower ground.
• Having had altitude sickness before.
• Having a family history of altitude sickness, since genetics seem to predispose some people more than others.
• Being under the age of 50. Younger adults and children seem to have an increased risk.
• Existing medical conditions like lung disease, heart disease or diabetes are not risk factors for altitude sickness, but hypoxic stress can complicate these conditions, so always be cautious.
• Physical fitness has also not been shown to protect you from altitude sickness.

Conventional Treatments

If you suspect you might be suffering from altitude mountain sickness (AMS), it’s not totally necessary to get medical help or to receive a diagnosis. Usually acute mountain/altitude sickness is diagnosed by observing symptoms.

Even without treatment for AMS, you should start feeling better within several days. How does your body adjust to high altitudes? Many people will gradually get used to being at elevations up to 3,000 meters (10,000 feet) within a few days as their body adapts to getting less oxygen. ( 6 ) This process is known as acclimatization (defined as when a human or organism adjusts to a change in its environment, such as altitude, temperature, humidity, photoperiod, or pH, in order to survive). However, it’s almost impossible to get acclimated to very altitudes of 17,000 feet (or 5,100 meters), which requires bottled oxygen to survive.

Acclimatization to higher altitudes happens when your body goes through several changes, including:

• Increasing respiration.
• Producing more red blood cells to help carry oxygen.
• Allowing pulmonary capillaries to increase to help bring more blood to the lungs.
• Increasing production of enzymes that help release oxygen from hemoglobin.

If someone is unable to acclimate to a higher altitude and develops symptoms that can be potentially dangerous, then immediate management of the condition is required. Conventional treatments for severe altitude sickness (especially HACE or HAPE) can include:

• Use of oxygen if available
• Descent of more than 300 meters as soon as possible
• In some cases, use of medications called prophylactic treatments, including acetazolamide and dexamethasone are used to reduce the risk of developing severe symptoms. These have been shown to reduce acute mountain sickness more effectively compared with placebo versions. ( 7 ) Some of these drugs work by helping to make the blood more acidic, which drives ventilation (breathing) and helps with acclimatization. Dexamethasone also helps reduce swelling and can be used to protect the brain during HACE.

Prevention Tips

What can you do to prevent altitude sickness?

How to lower the chance that altitude sickness will happen to you:

1. Travel/Ascend Upward Slowly

The very best way to avoid to getting altitude sickness is to transition to a higher altitude slowly. One study found that the prevalence of acute mountain sickness was 58 percent with rapid ascent and no prior pre-exposure, 29 percent with pre-exposure only, 33 percent with slow ascent only, and 7 percent with both pre-exposure and slow ascent. While it’s not always possible or realistic, your body has a better chance of coping with an altitude change if you walk up to a higher altitude rather than flying or driving there. If you’re hiking up a mountain and worried about altitude sickness, experts recommend that starting at a point that is below 10,000 feet (3,048 meters) and walking up if possible. Slowly acclimating greatly helps to prevents altitude illness, improves sleep, and increases comfort and well-being. Try only increasing your altitude by 1,000 feet (305 meters) per day and plan to take rest days along the way.

2. Don’t Overexert Yourself

If you do fly or drive to a higher altitude, do not overexert yourself, especially for the first 24 hours. It’s common for physical performance to suffer when you reach a new altitude as you need time to adjust. You’ll likely have a harder time breathing and feel fatigued more easily, so it’s best not to push yourself or train hard for the first two to three days. ( 8 )

3. Watch For Signs and Symptoms

Pay attention to how you feel when you reach a higher altitude. Your symptoms should begin getting better within two to three days, not worse. If you develop symptoms of HACE or HAPE then descend right away to prevent symptoms from worsening.

Natural Remedies for Symptoms

How do you treat altitude sickness? If you’ve developed symptoms that sound altitude sickness shortly after traveling, try the natural remedies below to help manage symptoms. Remember that if you have AMS ( but not HAPE or HACE ) then you should also feel better with time, as your body has a chance to get used to the change in pressure and oxygen.

1. If Possible, Sleep at a Lower Altitude

A common saying about climbers/hikers is to “climb high and sleep low,” meaning it’s safer to sleep at altitudes lower than 1,000 feet. This is one reason why day trips up to higher altitudes are encouraged, since you can still climb high during the day, then break to descend down at night so you get better sleep.

If you’re struggling to sleep, regardless of what altitude you might beat, some of these natural sleep aids can help:

• Avoid caffeine and alcohol, which can disturb sleep.
• Consume complex carbs to help produce tryptophan, which can make you feel sleepier, such 100 percent whole grain oats, brown rice, corn or quinoa.
• Take a magnesium supplement, or one that combines calcium with magnesium.
• Use relaxing essential oils such as  bergamot oil  and  lavender oil , in addition to sandalwood, frankincense and mandarin.

2. Fight Headaches and Pain

Strong headaches are commonly one of the first symptoms of altitude sickness to appear. To ease the pain and prevent discomfort from getting worse, try natural headache remedies including:

• Applying peppermint essential oil.
• Staying hydrated and avoiding too much salt.
• Taking a magnesium supplement.
• Stretching and moving, or walking outside to get fresh air.
• Taking breaks throughout the day to rest.

Other natural painkillers include applying a warm compress to tight areas, such as your neck or shoulders, and applying a cream containing cayenne to stimulate your body’s circulation and help reduce inflammation.

3. Combat Nausea

If you’re struggling with an upset stomach, loss of appetite or vomiting due to altitude sickness, try some of these strategies for getting rid of nausea :

• Chew on ginger sucking candies, ginger root, or, if possible, drink ginger or chamomile tea. You can also apply ginger essential oil to your chest combined with a carrier oil such as coconut oil.
• Take a multivitamin containing vitamin B6 before you climb, which can help curb nausea.
• Use lemon and peppermint essential oil, or possibly cannabis oil . Try rubbing 1 to 2 drops into the back of your neck and bottoms of the feet, or add several drops to a cool compress and place it on your head.
• Rest and try to get enough sleep. Avoid strenuous activity.
• Stay hydrated and consider drinking something that provides electrolytes, such as coconut water.

4. Helpful Supplements and Foods

Can certain foods or vitamins help with altitude sickness? Some research indicates that taking  ginkgo biloba may help reduce the risk of acute mountain sickness. It’s unlikely that you’ll have access to lots of fresh foods while climbing or hiking, but do your best to avoid lots of high-sodium and synthetic, processed foods that can make digestion harder.

Final Thoughts

• There are three types of altitude sickness: Altitude Mountain Sickness (AMS), High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE) and High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE). AMS is the most common type and least severe, while HACE and HAPE can sometimes be life-threatening.
• In rare, severe cases, altitude sickness (HACE and HAPE) can be dangerous and even deadly. If you experience any of these symptoms seek help right away (such as with using oxygen) and descend to lower ground: sudden loss of breath, disorientation, wheezing and chest pains , severe fatigue and feeling like you’re suffocating.
• Get plenty of rest and sleep at a lower altitude, if possible, try essential oils and natural pain killers for pain and headaches, take a multivitamin with vitamin B6 or suck on natural ginger candies to soothe nausea and avoid high-sodium, processed foods if you are experiencing altitude sickness symptoms.

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8 Ayurvedic Motion Sickness Treatments to Help You Travel Far and Wide

M otion sickness is a dreaded travelling companion that can make an exciting trip into a dreadful experience. The disturbing signs of motion sickness can dampen your experience, whether you’re travelling on curving roads, cruising the high seas, or flying through the air. It can be a formidable foe, often leading to nausea, dizziness, and stomach discomfort. However, there's hope in the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda. In this article, discover 8 Ayurvedic remedies to combat motion sickness naturally and effectively.

The wonder root of nature - ginger is well known for its ability to aid digestion and prevent nausea. Ginger is valued in Ayurveda for its ability to balance the doshas, particularly the Vata and Kapha imbalances that frequently cause motion sickness. This root is your ally in symptom treatment, whether you choose freshly grated ginger, calming ginger tea, or convenient ginger tablets.

Ajwain, often overlooked in Ayurveda, is a powerful remedy for motion sickness. Rich in thymol, it possesses antiemetic properties that soothe queasiness and alleviate intestinal discomfort for travellers. Consider chewing on Ajwain seeds directly or pairing them with jaggery for a delightful travel snack.

The revered Tulsi emerges as a natural remedy for motion sickness. Tulsi, which is rich in the mystical ingredient eugenol, calms gastrointestinal agitation while leaving nausea and discomfort in its wake. Before and throughout your travels, a warm cup of Tulsi tea made from fresh or dried leaves can serve as a calming elixir. Chewing fresh Tulsi leaves can enhance your defence against the symptoms of motion sickness.

Fennel Seeds

The digestive and carminative benefits of fennel seeds can't be ignored. It can alleviate motion sickness symptoms and travel-related gastrointestinal pain. To use, chew a teaspoon of fennel seeds or make fennel tea by steeping crushed seeds in boiling water.

Triphala, a traditional Ayurvedic herbal remedy made from Amalaki, Bibhitaki, and Haritaki fruits, is known for its digestive and cleansing properties, potentially reducing motion sickness symptoms. To use, dissolve 1-2 tablespoons of Triphala powder in warm water before travel.

Cardamom, a digestive spice with relaxing characteristics, can help decrease motion sickness symptoms by chewing a couple of cardamon pods before travel and steeping them in hot water for tea.

Amla is a vitamin C-rich fruit known in Ayurveda for its revitalizing properties. It can strengthen your immunity and make you less susceptible to motion sickness. Consume fresh amla fruit or amla juice before embarking on your travel. If fresh amla is not available, amla supplements can also work.

Mint, renowned for its natural ability to combat motion sickness, contains menthol which relaxes the stomach muscles and reduces nausea. Its relaxing flavour also calms the nervous system, minimizing dizziness and anxiety while travelling. Make a cup of mint tea by steeping dried peppermint leaves or fresh mint leaves in hot water for immediate relief. Slowly sip it before and during your journey.

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Ayurveda offers a treasure trove of natural remedies for motion sickness, ensuring smoother and more enjoyable travels. With the healing power of ingredients like ginger, ajwain, mint, and more at your fingertips, you can confidently embark on new adventures without the fear of motion sickness. Consider adding these Ayurvedic solutions to your travel routine for optimal relief. Nevertheless, always consult with a healthcare professional or Ayurvedic expert before starting any new remedy, especially if you have health conditions or are expecting. Embrace your journeys with the holistic support of Ayurveda.

Motion sickness

Motion sickness is feeling dizzy, or feeling or being sick when travelling by car, boat, plane or train. You can do things to prevent it or relieve the symptoms.

Check if you have motion sickness

Symptoms of motion sickness may include:

• feeling sick (nausea)
• feeling cold and going pale

How to ease motion sickness yourself

Do reduce motion – sit in the front of a car or in the middle of a boat look straight ahead at a fixed point, such as the horizon breathe fresh air if possible – for example, by opening a car window close your eyes and breathe slowly while focusing on your breathing distract children by talking, listening to music or singing songs break up long journeys to get some fresh air, drink water or take a walk try ginger, which you can take as a tablet, biscuit or tea don’t.

do not read, watch films or use electronic devices

do not look at moving objects, such as passing cars or rolling waves

do not eat heavy meals, spicy foods or drink alcohol shortly before or during travel

do not go on fairground rides if they make you feel unwell

A pharmacist can help with motion sickness

You can buy remedies from pharmacies to help prevent motion sickness, including:

• tablets – dissolvable tablets are available for children
• patches – can be used by adults and children over 10
• acupressure bands – these do not work for everyone

A pharmacist will be able to recommend the best treatment for you or your child.

Causes of motion sickness

Motion sickness is caused by repeated movements when travelling, like going over bumps in a car or moving up and down in a boat, plane or train.

The inner ear sends different signals to your brain from those your eyes are seeing. These confusing messages cause you to feel unwell.

Page last reviewed: 19 June 2023 Next review due: 19 June 2026

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TCM Remedies to Soothe Motion Sickness in Travelers

Published: december 20, 2023.

With the holiday season in full swing, many eagerly anticipate the joy of travel to reunite with loved ones or explore new destinations. However, for some, the journey can be marred by the threat of motion sickness. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a good deal of strategies for relief to those seeking smoother travels during this festive season. 

Motion or travel sickness can manifest due to recurring small movements that generate conflicting signals to the brain. The eyes convey a specific message about the body’s position, while internal mechanisms communicate another, resulting in symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and perspiration.

Travel sickness may also be induced by scent stimuli, such as food or petrol odors, as well as heightened anxiety or attempts to concentrate on nearby objects like reading a book or a map. TCM includes multiple ways to swiftly relieve these symptoms and allow people to travel more easily. 

Understanding Motion Sickness

While traveling in a moving vehicle, the balance of qi and essence in your body can be disrupted by unfamiliar movements. This imbalance leads to the reversal of stomach qi flow. Instead of descending as it should, stomach qi moves upward. This disturbance can result in deficiencies in the liver and spleen, leading to sensations of nausea and motion sickness. These deficiencies may manifest in different patterns.

In TCM, motion sickness can be linked to patterns of disharmony, “pattern” meaning a disruption in system balance. Motion sickness can stem from patterns such as phlegm, spleen deficiency with dampness, and phlegm in the lower burner.

Observing signs and symptoms beyond what one would typically expect from motion sickness helps determine if it is connected to a specific pattern. For instance, if motion sickness is attributed to the phlegm pattern, patients may also exhibit chest pain, dizziness, and nausea.

Recognizing Triggers

Triggers that cause motion sickness can be different for everyone.  As a good general practice, it’s best to avoid salty, spicy, or greasy foods. Also, reduce coffee, tea, or alcohol before and during travels to stay healthy.  Following a healthy diet and staying hydrated can help reduce motion sickness.

Recognizing possible triggers that contribute to motion sickness will allow for proper preparation. Making simple changes can help—for example, sitting in the front of a car or bus or facing forward on a train. When flying, it’s a good idea to sit near the wing. While on a boat, sitting at the front might help reduce motion sickness.

Acupressure

Acupressure, similar to acupuncture, focuses on specific points along the body’s meridians. This treatment aims to alleviate energy blockages that may contribute to illness and pain by targeting these points.

The Nei Guan acupoint, also called Pericardium 6 or the Inner Gate in TCM, is a primary acupoint for managing nausea and vomiting.  Its effect on nausea has earned the Nei Guan point the rare distinction of being able to help treat a condition without adding other acupoints. 

The point is found between the two tendons on the inside of the wrist, about three fingers below the wrist crease. In TCM theory, acupressure on the Nei Guan point calms the mind, soothes the nerves, regulates qi, and relieves pain. It also “opens and unbinds the chest.”  This refers to some of the types of physical symptoms that can be experienced with anxiety, such as tightness in the chest and palpitations. Often, anxiety produces nausea as well, in which case “The Inner Gate” can help on both fronts.  

Herbal Formulas

Several herbal formulas may relieve motion sickness symptoms and help restore balance. 

Bao He Wan may aid individuals experiencing symptoms such as distension in the stomach, stomach heaviness, acid reflux, or diarrhea. It aims to alleviate discomfort from a large meal and soothe the digestive tract. This formula has also been used to ease stress-induced nausea and symptoms associated with motion sickness.

Wu Ling San addresses patterns such as phlegm and spleen deficiency with dampness—both linked to motion sickness. This formula may relieve vomiting and nausea caused by qi imbalance due to movement. 

Ginger is commonly used in TCM and Western medicine to treat motion sickness. Studies show ginger relieves nausea and can be taken in many forms to help relieve symptoms. If fresh ginger isn’t available during travel, candied ginger pieces make a suitable substitute.

Other herbs known for reducing nausea include:

Safe, Comfortable Travels

While motion sickness typically subsides once the motion ceases and does not cause lasting harm, it can make travel challenging for some individuals, if not impossible. Heightened anxiety ahead of a trip may also exacerbate symptoms.

While several anti-nausea medications exist, these options may include undesirable side effects and may not address the underlying cause of the issue. TCM provides numerous safe and natural remedies to relieve and prevent motion sickness symptoms. 

Using herbal formulas, incorporating ginger, and employing acupressure are simple, effective ways to alleviate travel-induced nausea. Should herbal formulas be a good fit, sourcing them from reputable providers is imperative to ensure optimal benefits. KPC, a longstanding institution with a multi-generational history, consistently delivers high-quality herbal formulas to practitioners for diverse health concerns. Find further insights into KPC and our comprehensive herbal formula catalog through our website .

*Please note: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This article is not intended to suggest specific treatments for patients or that any supplements mentioned prevent or cure diseases or problems. Before taking any herbs, all patients should discuss their options with a licensed practitioner, including any other medications the patient is currently taking, as there may be contraindications between pharmaceuticals and herbs.

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Avoiding Altitude Sickness: How to Enjoy the Mountains Safely

By Megan McCrea

At last, you’ve arrived in Cuzco, Peru — you’re ready for your dream trek to Machu Picchu. There’s just one problem: You can barely catch your breath, your stomach is churning and, in the morning, your head is throbbing.

The culprit? Altitude sickness, or in medical terms, acute mountain sickness — the various symptoms tied to your body’s response to the higher altitude. As elevation increases, air pressure drops, meaning you get less oxygen from each full breath. It is temporarily uncomfortable for most people, but in extreme cases, severe altitude sickness can even be fatal.

It sounds scary, but as Paul Nicolazzo, the president of Wilderness Medicine Training Center said, “There’s really no reason to be afraid of going to altitude, as long as you understand what you’re up against, and you obey some very, very basic rules.”

Know the symptoms

A.M.S. has four general symptoms: headache, gastrointestinal discomfort (nausea and lack of appetite), fatigue/weakness, and dizziness/lightheadedness.

Many people experience the morning altitude headache, in which “your skull feels too small for the pulse that’s coming,” said Steve House, the founder of Uphill Athlete , a company that offers high-altitude endurance coaching.

It is also common to struggle with sleep at high altitudes. This occurs partly because the part of your nervous system responsible for keeping you awake has kicked in to increase your respiratory rate, Mr. Nicolazzo said.

Pay attention to elevation

The two main drivers of A.M.S. are how high you’re going and how fast you’re getting there. People with a higher altitude sensitivity might start experiencing challenges not far above 5,000 feet, say in places like Denver and Johannesburg. Anyone traveling above 8,000 feet may be at risk for altitude sickness, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention .

Serious adventure travelers — say, those trekking in the Himalayas, or climbing Mount Kilimanjaro — usually know they’re headed for high altitudes. But the elevation of destinations like Mexico City (about 8,000 feet), the summit of Haleakala on Maui (10,023 feet), Cuzco (about 11,150 feet), or even Santa Fe, N.M. (6,996 feet), might come as a surprise. To set expectations, check your destination’s altitude in advance on Google Earth or the U.S. Geological Survey national map viewer .

Listen to your body

If you have a condition like heart disease, heart failure, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, atrial fibrillation, lung disease, C.O.P.D., asthma or sleep apnea, you’ll want to start paying close attention to how you’re feeling at around 5,000 feet.

If you have a pre-existing condition or have had trouble with high altitudes before — or if you’ll be going above 10,000 feet — consider visiting a specialist, who can help you prepare and may be able to advise you about the main drugs used to prevent and treat altitude sickness, Diamox (acetazolamide) and dexamethasone.

Sleep your way up

Traveling to high altitudes is a little like running a marathon: It will go better if you build up to it.

Say you’re headed to a high-altitude ski resort. Consider working your way up from a lower sleeping elevation to a higher one, since the critical factor — for altitude purposes — is where you spend the night.

If you’re traveling from sea level to Breckenridge, a Colorado ski town that sits at about 9,600 feet, first spend a night in Denver, at 5,280 feet, advised Dr. Peter Hackett, the founder of the Denali Medical Research Project and a high-altitude specialist. By doing so, he explained, “you drop the incidence of headache by almost half. So that little bit of extra time that you take to get to 9,000 feet to sleep can make a big difference.”

Skip that fatty steak

When Mr. Nicolazzo worked as a ski patroller, there was a behavior so common — and certain to exacerbate altitude illness — he remembers that local lodges posted warnings about it. People would fly in from sea level, he recalled, drive to the ski areas around Taos, N.M. (which is itself at 6,969 feet), “have a big steak, baked potato with sour cream and a lot of butter,” along with several cocktails. Then, they would feel terrible the next day, he said.

To avoid that feeling, trade the steak and extra butter for something with more carbohydrates, as fats and proteins take more oxygen for your body to metabolize.

And if you’re having a cocktail, keep it to one: Alcohol and other depressants can decrease your oxygen level, particularly while you’re sleeping, Dr. Hackett said.

Above all, drink plenty of water. Staying hydrated will help your kidneys work better, Mr. Nicolazzo explained, which can help you adjust to the altitude and, hopefully, avoid the headache.

Watch for red flags

A mild case of A.M.S. can become moderate or severe if someone ascends too high or too fast. Most — but not all — people progress through the mild symptoms before reaching this level, which includes symptoms like dizziness, disorientation, severe nausea and extreme shortness of breath.

To guard against severe A.M.S., monitor how you feel, and if you’re experiencing a persistent headache, trouble sleeping or other A.M.S. symptoms, tell your companions and don’t ascend any higher.

At the severe end of the continuum, if not treated, A.M.S. could progress into high altitude pulmonary edema , in which fluid builds up in the lungs, or more rarely, high altitude cerebral edema , where fluid builds up in the brain. Both conditions can be fatal.

“There are three cures for altitude illness,” Mr. House said, “descent, descent and descent.” Anyone who appears confused, is coughing up fluid or seems to have trouble breathing or walking — symptoms of severe conditions like HAPE or HACE — needs to be taken down immediately, Dr. Hackett said. “Just a thousand feet is all they have to go. And that could save their life.”

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Mumbai:  Spend 36 hours in this fast-changing Indian city  by exploring ancient caves, catching a concert in a former textile mill and feasting on mangoes.

Kyoto:  The Japanese city’s dry gardens offer spots for quiet contemplation  in an increasingly overtouristed destination.

Iceland:  The country markets itself as a destination to see the northern lights. But they can be elusive, as one writer recently found .

Texas:  Canoeing the Rio Grande near Big Bend National Park can be magical. But as the river dries, it’s getting harder to find where a boat will actually float .

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• Section 5 - Rubella
• Section 5 - Smallpox & Other Orthopoxvirus-Associated Infections

Rubeola / Measles

Cdc yellow book 2024.

Author(s): Paul Gastañaduy, James Goodson

Infectious Agent

Transmission, epidemiology, clinical presentation.

INFECTIOUS AGENT: Measles virus

TRAVELER CATEGORIES AT GREATEST RISK FOR EXPOSURE & INFECTION

PREVENTION METHODS

Rubeola is a vaccine-preventable disease

DIAGNOSTIC SUPPORT

Measles virus is a member of the genus Morbillivirus of the family Paramyxoviridae .

Measles is transmitted from person to person via respiratory droplets and by the airborne route as aerosolized droplet nuclei. Infected people are usually contagious from 4 days before until 4 days after rash onset. Measles is among the most contagious viral diseases known; secondary attack rates are ≥90% among susceptible household and institutional contacts. Humans are the only natural host for sustaining measles virus transmission, which makes global eradication of measles feasible.

Measles was declared eliminated (defined as the absence of endemic measles virus transmission in a defined geographic area for ≥12 months in the presence of a well-performing surveillance system) from the United States in 2000. Measles virus continues to be imported into the country from other parts of the world, however, and recent prolonged outbreaks in the United States resulting from measles virus importations highlight the challenges faced in maintaining measles elimination.

Given the large global measles burden and high communicability of the disease, travelers could be exposed to the virus in any country they visit where measles remains endemic or where large outbreaks are occurring. Most measles cases imported into the United States occur in unvaccinated US residents who become infected while traveling abroad, often to the World Health Organization (WHO)–defined Western Pacific and European regions. These travelers become symptomatic after returning to the United States and sometimes infect others in their communities, causing outbreaks.

Nearly 90% of imported measles cases are considered preventable by vaccination (i.e., the travelers lacked recommended age- and travel-appropriate vaccination). Furthermore, observational studies in travel clinics in the United States have shown that 59% of pediatric and 53% of adult travelers eligible for measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine at the time of pretravel consultation were not vaccinated at the visit, highlighting a missed opportunity to reduce the likelihood of measles introductions and subsequent spread. Encourage all eligible travelers to receive appropriate MMR vaccination. Outbreak investigations are costly and resource intensive, and infected people—in addition to productivity losses—can incur direct costs for the management of their illness, including treatment, quarantine, and caregiving.

The incubation period averages 11–12 days from exposure to onset of prodrome; rash usually appears ≈14 days after exposure. Symptoms include fever, with temperature ≤105°F (≤40.6°C); conjunctivitis; coryza (runny nose); cough; and small spots with white or bluish-white centers on an erythematous base appearing on the buccal mucosa (Koplik spots). A characteristic red, blotchy (maculopapular) rash appears 3–7 days after onset of prodromal symptoms. The rash begins on the face, becomes generalized, and lasts 4–7 days.

Common measles complications include diarrhea (8%), middle ear infection (7%–9%), and pneumonia (1%–6%). Encephalitis, which can result in permanent brain damage, occurs in ≈1 per 1,000–2,000 cases of measles. The risk for serious complications or death is highest for children aged ≤5 years, adults aged ≥20 years, and in populations with poor nutritional status or that lack access to health care.

Subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE) is a progressive neurologic disorder caused by measles virus that usually presents 5–10 years after recovery from the initial primary measles virus infection. SSPE manifests as mental and motor deterioration, which can progress to coma and death. SSPE occurs in ≈1 of every 5,000 reported measles cases; rates are higher among children <5 years of age.

Measles is a nationally notifiable disease. Laboratory criteria for diagnosis include a positive serologic test for measles-specific IgM, IgG seroconversion, or a significant rise in measles IgG level by any standard serologic assay; isolation of measles virus; or detection of measles virus RNA by reverse transcription PCR (RT-PCR) testing. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Measles Virus Laboratory is the national reference laboratory; it provides serologic and molecular testing for measles and technical assistance to state public health laboratories for the collection and shipment of clinical samples for molecular diagnostics and genetic analysis. See detailed information on diagnostic support .

A clinical case of measles illness is characterized by generalized maculopapular rash lasting ≥3 days; temperature ≥101°F (38.3°C); and cough, coryza, or conjunctivitis. A confirmed case is one with an acute febrile rash illness with laboratory confirmation or direct epidemiologic linkage to a laboratory-confirmed case. In a laboratory-confirmed or epidemiologically linked case, the patient’s temperature does not need to reach ≥101°F (38.3°C) and the rash does not need to last ≥3 days.

Treatment is supportive. The WHO recommends vitamin A for all children with acute measles, regardless of their country of residence, to reduce the risk for complications. Administer vitamin A as follows: for infants <6 months old, give 50,000 IU, once a day for 2 days; for infants 6 months old and older, but younger than 12 months, give 100,000 IU once a day for 2 days; for children ≥12 months old give 200,000 IU once a day for 2 days. For children with clinical signs and symptoms of vitamin A deficiency, administer an additional (i.e., a third) age-specific dose of vitamin A 2–4 weeks following the first round of dosing.

Measles has been preventable through vaccination since a vaccine was licensed in 1963. People who do not have evidence of measles immunity should be considered at risk for measles, particularly during international travel. Acceptable presumptive evidence of immunity to measles includes birth before 1957; laboratory confirmation of disease; laboratory evidence of immunity; or written documentation of age-appropriate vaccination with a licensed, live attenuated measles-containing vaccine 1 , namely, MMR or measles-mumps-rubella-varicella (MMRV). For infants 6 months old and older, but younger than 12 months, this includes documented administration of 1 dose of MMR; for people aged ≥12 months, documentation should include 2 doses of MMR or MMRV (the first dose administered at age ≥12 months and the second dose administered no earlier than 28 days after the first dose). Verbal or self-reported history of vaccination is not considered valid presumptive evidence of immunity.

1 From 1963–1967, a formalin-inactivated measles vaccine was available in the United States and was administered to ≈600,000–900,000 people. It was discontinued when it became apparent that the immunity it produced was short-lived. Consider people who received this vaccine unvaccinated.

Vaccination

Measles vaccine contains live, attenuated measles virus, which in the United States is available only in combination formulations (e.g., MMR and MMRV vaccines). MMRV vaccine is licensed for children aged 12 months–12 years and can be used in place of MMR vaccine if vaccination for measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella is needed.

International travelers, including people traveling to high-income countries, who do not have presumptive evidence of measles immunity and who have no contraindications to MMR or MMRV, should receive MMR or MMRV before travel per the following schedule.

Infants (6 months old and older, but younger than 12 months): 1 MMR dose. Infants vaccinated before age 12 months must be revaccinated on or after the first birthday with 2 doses of MMR or MMRV separated by ≥28 days. MMRV is not licensed for children aged <12 months.

Children (aged ≥12 months): 2 doses of MMR or MMRV separated by ≥28 days.

Adults born in or after 1957: 2 doses of MMR separated by ≥28 days.

One dose of MMR is ≈85% effective when administered at age 9 months; MMR and MMRV are 93% effective when administered at age ≥1 year. Vaccine effectiveness of 2 doses is 97%.

Adverse Reactions

In rare circumstances, MMR vaccination has been associated with anaphylaxis (≈2–14 occurrences per million doses administered); febrile seizures (≈1 occurrence per 3,000–4,000 doses administered, but overall, the rate of febrile seizures after measles-containing vaccine is much lower than the rate with measles disease); thrombocytopenia (≈1 occurrence per 40,000 doses during the 6 weeks after immunization); or joint symptoms (arthralgia develops among ≈25% of nonimmune postpubertal females from the rubella component of the MMR vaccination, and ≈10% have acute arthritis-like signs and symptoms that generally persist for 1–21 days and rarely recur; chronic joint symptoms are rare, if they occur at all). No evidence supports a causal link between MMR vaccination and autism, type 1 diabetes mellitus, or inflammatory bowel disease.

Contraindications

People who experienced a severe allergic reaction (difficulty breathing, hives, hypotension, shock, swelling of the mouth or throat) following a prior dose of MMR or MMRV vaccine, or who had an anaphylactic reaction to topically or systemically administered neomycin, should not be vaccinated or revaccinated. People who are allergic to eggs can receive MMR or MMRV vaccine without prior routine skin testing or the use of special protocols.

Immunosuppression

Enhanced replication of live vaccine viruses can occur in people who have immune deficiency disorders. Death related to vaccine-associated measles virus infection has been reported among severely immunocompromised people; thus, severely immunosuppressed people should not be vaccinated with MMR or MMRV vaccine. For a thorough discussion of recommendations for immunocompromised travelers, see Sec. 3, Ch. 1, Immunocompromised Travelers .

MMR vaccination is recommended for all people with HIV infection aged ≥12 months who do not have evidence of measles, mumps, and rubella immunity, and who do not have evidence of severe immunosuppression. The assessment of severe immunosuppression can be based on CD4 values (count or percentage); absence of severe immunosuppression is defined as CD4 ≥15% for ≥6 months for children aged ≤5 years, or CD4 ≥15% and CD4 count ≥200 cells/mL for ≥6 months for people aged >5 years.

People with leukemia in remission and off chemotherapy, who were not immune to measles when diagnosed with leukemia, may receive MMR vaccine. At least 3 months should elapse after termination of chemotherapy before administering the first dose of vaccine.

Steroids & Other Immunosuppressive Therapies

Avoid vaccinating people who have received high-dose corticosteroid therapy (in general, considered to be ≥20 mg or 2 mg/kg body weight of prednisone, or its equivalent, daily for ≥14 days) with MMR or MMRV for ≥1 month after cessation of steroid therapy. Corticosteroid therapy usually is not a contraindication when administration is short-term (<14 days) or a low to moderate dose (<20 mg of prednisone or equivalent per day).

In general, withhold MMR or MMRV vaccine for ≥3 months after cessation of other immunosuppressive therapies and remission of the underlying disease. See Sec. 3, Ch. 1, Immunocompromised Travelers , for more details.

MMR vaccines should not be administered to pregnant people or people attempting to become pregnant. Because of the theoretical risk to the fetus, people should be counseled to avoid becoming pregnant for 28 days after receiving a live-virus (e.g., MMR) vaccine.

Precautions

Personal or family history of seizures of any etiology.

Compared with administration of separate MMR and varicella vaccines at the same visit, use of MMRV vaccine is associated with a higher risk for fever and febrile seizures 5–12 days after the first dose among children aged 12–23 months. Approximately 1 additional febrile seizure occurs for every 2,300–2,600 MMRV vaccine doses administered. Use of separate MMR and varicella vaccines avoids this increased risk for fever and febrile seizures.

Thrombocytopenia

The benefits of primary immunization are usually greater than the potential risks for vaccine- associated thrombocytopenia. Avoid giving subsequent doses of MMR or MMRV vaccine, however, if an episode of thrombocytopenia occurred ≤6 weeks after a previous dose of vaccine.

Postexposure Prophylaxis

Measles-containing vaccine or immune globulin (IG) can be effective as postexposure prophylaxis. MMR or MMRV administered ≤72 hours after initial exposure to measles virus might provide some protection. If the exposure does not result in infection, the vaccine should induce protection against subsequent measles virus infection.

When administered ≤6 days of exposure, IG can be used to confer temporary immunity in a susceptible person. If the exposure does not result in modified or typical measles, vaccination with MMR or MMRV is still necessary to provide long-lasting protection. Six months after receiving intramuscularly administered IG, or 8 months after receiving intravenously administered IG, administer MMR or MMRV vaccine, provided the patient is aged ≥12 months and the vaccine is not otherwise contraindicated.

CDC website: Measles

The following authors contributed to the previous version of this chapter: Paul A. Gastañaduy, James L. Goodson

Bibliography

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Prevention of measles, rubella, congenital rubella syndrome, and mumps, 2013: summary recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP). MMWR Recomm Rep. 2013;62(RR-04):1–34.

 Gastañaduy P, Redd S, Clemmons N, Lee AD, Hickman CJ, Rota PA, et al. Measles. In: Roush SW, Baldy LM, Kirkconnell Hall MA, editors. Manual for the surveillance of vaccine-preventable diseases. Atlanta: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; 2019. Available from: www.cdc.gov/vaccines/pubs/surv-manual/chpt07-measles.html .

Hyle EP, Fields NF, Fiebelkorn AP, Taylor Walker A, Gastañaduy P, Rao SR, et al. The clinical impact and cost-effectiveness of measles-mumps-rubella vaccination to prevent measles importations among US international travelers. Clin Infect Dis. 2019;69(2):306–15.

Hyle EP, Rao SR, Bangs AC, Gastañaduy P, Parker Fiebelkorn A, Hagmann SHF, et al. Clinical practices for measles-mumps-rubella vaccination among US pediatric international travelers. JAMA Pediatr. 2020;174(2):e194515.

Hyle EP, Rao SR, Jentes ES, Parker Fiebelkorn A, Hagmann SHF, Taylor Walker A, et al. Missed opportunities for measles, mumps, rubella vaccination among departing U.S. adult travelers receiving pretravel health consultations. Ann Intern Med. 2017;167(2):77–84.

Lee AD, Clemmons NS, Patel M, Gastañaduy PA. International importations of measles virus into the United States during the post-elimination era, 2001–2016. J Infect Dis. 2019;219(10):1616–23.

National Notifiable Diseases Surveillance System. Measles (rubeola): 2013 case definition. Atlanta: CDC; 2013. Available from: https://ndc.services.cdc.gov/conditions/measles/ .

Patel MK, Goodson JL, Alexander JP Jr., Kretsinger K, Sodha SV, Steulet C, et al. Progress toward regional measles elimination—Worldwide, 2000–2019. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep. 2020;69(45):1700–5.

Pike J, Leidner AJ, Gastañaduy PA. A review of measles outbreak cost estimates from the US in the post-elimination era (2004–2017): Estimates by perspective and cost type. Clin Infect Dis. 2020;1(6):1568–76.

World Health Organization. Measles vaccines: WHO position paper—April 2017. Wkly Epidemiol Rec. 2017;92(17):205–27.

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