Home Remedies for Nausea

Most mild nausea settles with simple care at home. If it lasts more than 2 days, or has warning signs, see a doctor.

What helps

• Rest: sit upright or lie with your head raised. Avoid lying flat straight after eating.
• Fresh air: open a window or use a fan, and avoid strong smells
• Sip fluids: water, oral rehydration solution, clear soup or diluted juice, in small sips every few minutes
• Cool cloth on the forehead or neck
• Slow breathing: deep belly breaths
• Distraction: music, a calm show or a chat
• Small, bland food: plain toast, crackers, rice or banana, when you are ready
• Ginger: a cup of weak ginger tea or some ginger biscuit may help some people

What to avoid

• Greasy, fried, very spicy or sweet food
• Strong smells and cooking odours
• Alcohol, smoking and heavy coffee
• Lying flat after meals
• Brushing teeth right after a meal if it brings on nausea

Dehydration check

Watch for dry mouth, dark or little urine, dizziness on standing and no tears in a child. If present, seek care.

Children

Give small sips of oral rehydration solution often. Do not use steam, oils or drops in the nose or ears. No honey for infants under 12 months. Do not give adult medicines.

Pregnancy

Eat small, frequent meals, keep dry crackers by the bed and drink fluids. Ask a doctor before medicines or supplements.

Emergency (112 or 102)

Vomiting blood, severe belly pain, chest pain, confusion, stiff neck, fainting or a baby who is drowsy or not feeding.

Remember

Most nausea passes with rest and fluids. See a doctor if it lasts more than 2 days, keeps returning or comes with warning signs.