Nausea is a horrible feeling. Luckily, if you’d rather not take medications to treat your upset stomach, there are several natural remedies that can help. From doing deep breathing exercises to drinking ginger tea, we’ll guide you through a few of the most tried and true methods for soothing nausea. If you have nausea along with other serious symptoms, like a high fever or severe stomach pain, call your doctor.

1

Distract yourself.

  1. Choose a soothing distraction, like quiet music. Watching a TV show or spending time with a friend or loved one can also help get your mind off how you feel.[1] If talking makes you feel worse, you might ask a friend or relative talk to you while you listen, or have them read something to you.
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4

Press on an acupressure point.

  1. Gently massage the P-6 point on your wrist. While it’s not totally clear why it works, several studies have shown that acupressure is effective for reducing nausea.[7] To find the P-6, or Neiguan point, hold your hand with your palm toward you and your fingers facing up. Put your thumb on the inside of your wrist, about 3 finger-widths below your palm, and feel for the space between the 2 large tendons that connect your wrist to your arm muscles.[8] Gently press your thumb or index finger against this point for 2-3 minutes.[9]
    • Rub your thumb or finger in small circles while you apply pressure.[10] Push down firmly, but not hard enough to cause pain. Move to the other wrist when you’re done.
    • The space where your kneecap meets the top of your shin is another pressure point that’s thought to relieve nausea.[11] It is known as the ST–36 point or Zu San Li.[12]
    • Consider seeing a professional acupressure or acupuncture therapist if you regularly struggle with nausea. They can also show you more techniques to use at home.
5

Do deep breathing exercises.

  1. Slow, controlled breathing can calm your upset stomach. For a few minutes, take slow, deep breaths in through your nose and out through your mouth. To keep your breathing slow and steady, try counting slowly to 5 with each breath, and breathe out through pursed lips. Within about 5 minutes, you should begin to feel much better.[13]
    • To make sure you’re breathing deeply, put one hand on your chest and another on your belly. Concentrate on getting your belly to rise and fall as you breathe instead of your chest and shoulders.[14]
    • Some people find it helpful to breathe in a soothing scent, such as peppermint. However, studies show that deep breathing by itself is very effective at calming nausea.
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6

Sip a cold drink.

  1. Take small sips instead of big gulps. Cold, clear fluids, such as water, juice, a caffeine-free soda, or watered-down sports drinks are usually best. Take sips between meals or whenever you feel nauseated to help you stay hydrated and settle your stomach.[15] If you’ve been throwing up, it’s especially important to drink lots of fluids so you don’t get dehydrated. Try to drink 6–8 cups (1.4–1.9 L) of fluid per day, unless your doctor has told you to drink more or less than that.[16]
    • Some people find warm drinks more soothing. Stick to mild, clear fluids, like plain broth or weak tea.
    • You can also suck on ice chips, eat a popsicle, or eat some Jell-o.
    • If you have a child who’s been vomiting, call their pediatrician for advice. Kids can get dehydrated more easily, so they might need something to help restore missing electrolytes, like diluted apple juice.[17]
7

Drink ginger or peppermint tea.

  1. Science shows that these old herbal remedies really work. Use a teabag to brew a cup of ginger or peppermint tea, or steep fresh ginger root or mint leaves in hot water.[18] Take small sips so you don’t upset your stomach more. The aromas of ginger and peppermint may help calm nausea, so take a moment to breathe in the scent of your tea before sipping.[19]
    • If you find it hard to stomach hot liquids, let the tea cool off before you drink it.
    • Ginger in other forms is also good for relieving nausea. For example, you can eat ginger cookies, suck on ginger candy, sip ginger ale, or take ginger in capsule form.[20] If you use capsules, your doctor may recommend a taking 1000 mg split up over 4 doses throughout the day.[21]
    • Sucking on a peppermint candy or sniffing peppermint oil may also soothe your nausea.
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9

Eat bland foods.

  1. Stick to the BRAT diet to prevent stomach irritation. BRAT stands for bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast. In addition to these gentle foods, try other bland options, such as saltine crackers, plain potatoes, or clear broth.[23] The salt on saltine crackers or pretzels may also help you feel better.[24]
    • If you’re hungry but don’t think you can handle solid foods, sip on broth or eat some Jell-o.[25]
    • Gradually work your way up to mild, protein-rich foods, such as chicken breast, fish, eggs, or yogurt.
    • BRAT foods are also good for replenishing nutrients and restoring your energy after throwing up or having diarrhea.
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13

Steer clear of alcohol, caffeine, and OTC painkillers.

  1. These substances are all hard on the stomach. If you want something warm to drink, stick to herbal teas or broth instead of coffee. Avoid caffeinated sodas and anything with alcohol in it. Some over-the-counter medications, like aspirin, acetaminophen (Tylenol), and ibuprofen (Motrin), can also upset your stomach.[31]
    • Smoking can upset your stomach as well, so avoid cigarettes or marijuana if they make you feel sick.
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14

Try a supplement if you have frequent nausea.

  1. Ask your doctor to recommend a safe supplement. A few supplements that may help relieve nausea and vomiting include coenzyme Q10 (sometimes called CoQ10), L-carnitine, and riboflavin (vitamin B-2). Before trying one of these supplements, talk to your doctor. Tell them about any health conditions you have or other medicines and supplements you’re currently taking.[32]
    • Another promising supplement for reducing nausea is vitamin B6. Some studies show that B6 is as effective as ginger for treating nausea during pregnancy. If you’re struggling with morning sickness, ask your doctor to recommend a safe dose.[33]
15

See your doctor for persistent or severe nausea.

  1. Nausea can sometimes be a sign of a more severe problem. If you have nausea with or without vomiting and it does not go away within 24 hours, call your doctor for an appointment. If the nausea improves but you still have no appetite, have a headache, or have severe stomach or abdominal pain, call your doctor for advice right away. Go to the emergency room or call emergency services if you notice blood or a dark material in your vomit that looks like coffee grounds, or if you think your nausea was caused by poisoning.[34]
    • Most causes of nausea are not harmful, and include things like viral infections, motion sickness, acid reflux, certain medications, or hormonal changes (e.g., related to pregnancy or your menstrual cycle).
    • More serious causes of nausea that require medical attention include appendicitis, intestinal obstructions or blockages, cancer, poisoning, and peptic ulcer disease (PUD).
    • Persistent vomiting can cause dehydration, especially in small children. If you or your child can’t keep down fluids or experience symptoms such as extreme thirst, dark-colored or less frequent urine, sunken eyes, a dry mouth, severe tiredness or irritability, or crying without tears, get medical attention right away.[35]
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Expert Q&A

  • Question
    How do I stop carsickness?
    Peter Gardner, MD
    Peter Gardner, MD
    Board Certified Gastroenterologist
    Peter W. Gardner, MD is a board certified physician who has practiced Gastroenterology and Hepatology for over 30 years. He specializes in diseases of the digestive system and liver. Dr. Gardner earned his Bachelor’s degree from the University of North Carolina and attended Georgetown Medical School. He completed his residency in Internal Medicine and then his fellowship in Gastroenterology at the University of Connecticut. He is a previous Chief of Gastroenterology at Stamford Hospital and remains on the staff. He is also on the staff of Greenwich Hospital and New York (Columbia) Presbyterian Hospital. Dr. Gardner is an Approved Consultant in Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology with the American Board of Internal Medicine.
    Peter Gardner, MD
    Board Certified Gastroenterologist
    Expert Answer
    Ride in the front seat if you can and keep your eyes looking out ahead. If you're able to drive yourself, that can also help get rid of motion sickness.
  • Question
    Which point in acupressure helps to relieve nausea?
    Peter D'Aquino, L.Ac, MS, NCCAOM
    Peter D'Aquino, L.Ac, MS, NCCAOM
    Licensed Acupuncturist
    Peter D'Aquino is an Acupuncturist and Diplomate in Oriental Medicine based in New York City. Peter is licensed to practice in New York State and holds board certification by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture (NCCAOM) and Oriental Medicine in acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine. He has 10 years of experience practicing holistic pain management and sports medicine. He specializes in treating pain and orthopedic conditions along with rehab, fitness, weight loss, and digestive issues. He is also certified as a Personal Trainer by The National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) and certified in Functional Range Conditioning (FRC) and Functional Range Release (FRR) movement therapy. He holds an MA in Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine from Pacific College of Oriental Medicine in New York (PCOM).
    Peter D'Aquino, L.Ac, MS, NCCAOM
    Licensed Acupuncturist
    Expert Answer
    The classic point in acupressure is Pericardium 6 or Nei Guan in Chinese. Studies have shown it can help with nausea. It is located on the inner side of the wrist, about three fingers width below the wrist crease. It is in the center of the wrist, between the two tendons. You can apply pressure on it for a few minutes.
  • Question
    What is ST - 36 point in acupressure?
    Peter D'Aquino, L.Ac, MS, NCCAOM
    Peter D'Aquino, L.Ac, MS, NCCAOM
    Licensed Acupuncturist
    Peter D'Aquino is an Acupuncturist and Diplomate in Oriental Medicine based in New York City. Peter is licensed to practice in New York State and holds board certification by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture (NCCAOM) and Oriental Medicine in acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine. He has 10 years of experience practicing holistic pain management and sports medicine. He specializes in treating pain and orthopedic conditions along with rehab, fitness, weight loss, and digestive issues. He is also certified as a Personal Trainer by The National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) and certified in Functional Range Conditioning (FRC) and Functional Range Release (FRR) movement therapy. He holds an MA in Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine from Pacific College of Oriental Medicine in New York (PCOM).
    Peter D'Aquino, L.Ac, MS, NCCAOM
    Licensed Acupuncturist
    Expert Answer
    It is one of the well-known acupressure points, named Zu San Li in Chinese. It is about 4 finger breadths below the bottom of the patella or kneecap and one finger breadth lateral to the tibia bone. You can feel for a tender spot and apply direct pressure.
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  1. Peter D'Aquino, L.Ac, MS, NCCAOM. Licensed Acupuncturist. Expert Interview. 14 April 2020.
  2. https://www.insider.com/pressure-points-for-nausea
  3. Peter D'Aquino, L.Ac, MS, NCCAOM. Licensed Acupuncturist. Expert Interview. 14 April 2020.
  4. http://advance.uconn.edu/2002/020225/02022508.htm
  5. https://www.uofmhealth.org/health-library/uz2255
  6. https://www.nationwidechildrens.org/family-resources-education/family-resources-library/ease-nausea-with-natural-remedies
  7. https://www.albertahealthservices.ca/assets/info/cca/if-cca-managing-your-nausea-vomiting.pdf
  8. https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/treating-stomach-bugs-best-solution-may-simplest-one-201606149799
  9. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/feeling-sick-nausea/
  10. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5605819/
  11. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4818021/
  12. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19250006/
  13. https://www.nationwidechildrens.org/family-resources-education/family-resources-library/ease-nausea-with-natural-remedies
  14. https://familydoctor.org/brat-diet-recovering-from-an-upset-stomach/
  15. https://wexnermedical.osu.edu/blog/the-nutrition-cheat-sheet-for-morning-sickness
  16. https://www.albertahealthservices.ca/assets/info/cca/if-cca-managing-your-nausea-vomiting.pdf
  17. https://www.nationwidechildrens.org/family-resources-education/family-resources-library/ease-nausea-with-natural-remedies
  18. https://www.albertahealthservices.ca/assets/info/cca/if-cca-managing-your-nausea-vomiting.pdf
  19. https://wexnermedical.osu.edu/blog/the-nutrition-cheat-sheet-for-morning-sickness
  20. https://www.nationwidechildrens.org/family-resources-education/family-resources-library/ease-nausea-with-natural-remedies
  21. https://www.albertahealthservices.ca/assets/info/cca/if-cca-managing-your-nausea-vomiting.pdf
  22. https://goaskalice.columbia.edu/answered-questions/nausea-causes-and-treatments
  23. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cyclic-vomiting-syndrome/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20352167
  24. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5605819/
  25. https://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003117.htm
  26. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dehydration/symptoms-causes/syc-20354086
  27. https://www.albertahealthservices.ca/assets/info/cca/if-cca-managing-your-nausea-vomiting.pdf
  28. https://www.albertahealthservices.ca/assets/info/cca/if-cca-managing-your-nausea-vomiting.pdf

About This Article

Peter D'Aquino, L.Ac, MS, NCCAOM
Co-authored by:
Licensed Acupuncturist
This article was co-authored by Peter D'Aquino, L.Ac, MS, NCCAOM and by wikiHow staff writer, Megaera Lorenz, PhD. Peter D'Aquino is an Acupuncturist and Diplomate in Oriental Medicine based in New York City. Peter is licensed to practice in New York State and holds board certification by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture (NCCAOM) and Oriental Medicine in acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine. He has 10 years of experience practicing holistic pain management and sports medicine. He specializes in treating pain and orthopedic conditions along with rehab, fitness, weight loss, and digestive issues. He is also certified as a Personal Trainer by The National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) and certified in Functional Range Conditioning (FRC) and Functional Range Release (FRR) movement therapy. He holds an MA in Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine from Pacific College of Oriental Medicine in New York (PCOM). This article has been viewed 1,151,252 times.
2 votes - 100%
Co-authors: 76
Updated: January 24, 2023
Views: 1,151,252
Categories: Nausea and Vomiting

Medical Disclaimer

The content of this article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, examination, diagnosis, or treatment. You should always contact your doctor or other qualified healthcare professional before starting, changing, or stopping any kind of health treatment.

Article SummaryX

A simple way to help get rid of nausea without medication is to drink room temperature water or warm herbal teas since dehydration can cause nausea. Try to take sips throughout the day instead of drinking an entire glass all at once, and make sure to avoid very cold or very hot drinks. Consider drinking some ginger tea, which has been used to treat nausea caused by pregnancy and chemotherapy for a long time. While ginger tea is safe for pregnant women, just be sure to let your obstetrician know you’re drinking it and to only have 1 to 2 cups a day. If you can’t stand the taste of ginger, you can either take a ginger supplement or drink peppermint tea instead because peppermint has also been used to help treat nausea. For more tips from our Medical co-author, like how to alter your diet to avoid feeling nauseous, read on!

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