Can lemon juice help ease symptoms of motion sickness?

Motion sickness can make travelling very uncomfortable, but more often than not, people who suffer from it cannot completely avoid commuting for various reasons. 

Therefore, they often look for simple remedies to help ease the nausea and dizziness it causes. One such remedy is smelling lemon juice, believed to help reduce motion sickness. 

What is the reason behind this?

Dr Pranav Honnavara Srinivasan, senior consultant gastroenterology at Sparsh Hospital, says, “The scientific basis for using lemon juice aroma to alleviate motion sickness lies in the properties of citrus scents, which are believed to have a calming effect on the central nervous system. Lemon juice contains compounds such as limonene and citral, which have been studied for their potential to influence mood and reduce nausea.” 

When inhaled, he says these compounds can stimulate the olfactory system, leading to a sense of relief from nausea. The refreshing and invigorating scent of lemon juice can act as a counter-stimulant to the unpleasant sensations caused by motion sickness, potentially reducing the perception of nausea by distracting the brain from the discomfort.

Evidence supporting the effectiveness of lemon juice aroma in reducing motion sickness

While there is anecdotal evidence supporting the use of lemon juice aroma for alleviating motion sickness, Dr Srinivasan asserts, scientific research on this specific remedy is limited. 

More rigorous clinical studies are needed to establish the definitive benefits of lemon juice aroma for motion sickness relief. (Source: Freepik)

“However, a few studies have explored the effects of citrus scents on nausea. For instance, research has shown that inhaling lemon essential oil can significantly reduce nausea and vomiting in postoperative patients, suggesting its potential efficacy for motion sickness as well,” he continues. 

The antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties of lemon oil may also play a role in its effectiveness. Nevertheless, he concludes that more rigorous clinical studies are needed to establish the definitive benefits of lemon juice aroma for motion sickness relief.

How does the scent of lemon juice compare to other common remedies?

According to Dr Srinivasan, “The scent of lemon juice offers a different approach compared to other remedies like ginger or acupressure bands. Ginger is well known for its antiemetic properties and has been widely studied for its effectiveness in reducing nausea and vomiting. It works by blocking serotonin receptors in the gut, which can help alleviate motion sickness.”

Acupressure bands, on the other hand, apply pressure to the P6 (Neiguan) point on the wrist, which is believed to reduce nausea through nerve stimulation. 

“While lemon juice aroma provides a more immediate sensory distraction, ginger works through biochemical pathways and  acupressure bands offer a physical intervention. Each method has its unique benefits, and individuals may respond differently based on their sensitivity and preferences,” Dr Srinivasan states. 

Potential risks or side effects associated with using lemon juice aroma as a treatment for motion sickness

Using lemon juice aroma as a treatment for motion sickness is generally considered safe, Dr Srinivasan assures, with minimal risks or side effects. However, individuals with citrus allergies should avoid this remedy to prevent allergic reactions. Additionally, prolonged exposure to strong citrus scents could potentially cause headaches or respiratory irritation in sensitive individuals. It is also important to use natural lemon juice or essential oil rather than synthetic fragrances, which may contain harmful chemicals. 

“As with any alternative remedy, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before use, especially for those with underlying health conditions or those taking medication that might interact with citrus compounds,” he stresses.

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