Nothing kills a car trip or boating adventure faster than a bout of motion sickness.

While both Dramamine and Bonine are effective over-the-counter drug options, there are a number of natural alternatives you can try. Some are more effective when taken before leaving the dock, and others can help when that queasy feeling sets in.

Caution: Both of these medications may affect your cognitive function and have other side effects. If you are on any medications, including supplements or botanicals, consult your doctor before taking them.

Important: If you do choose Dramamine or Bonine, take it before you get in the car or on the boat. If you wait until you feel sick, they won't help.

Homeopathic Helper

One option is a homeopathic medicine with the unfortunate name of nux vomica, commonly known as "poison nut." A standard adult dosage, taken before you leave the dock, is three to five tablets (24X or 12C strength)--but, as always, check with your doctor. Nux vomica can be found at health food stores in the homeopathic section. Homeopaths swear it is both safe and effective in appropriate dosages.

Ginger Ale... Ginger Aid

In ancient times, sailors from Asia used to chew ginger to prevent seasickness. Folklore, some might say. But in the 1990s, a researcher at the American Phytotherapy Research Laboratory in Salt Lake City performed an experiment with 36 volunteers who tended to get motion sickness. He gave each participant either ginger powder (940 mg) or Dramamine (100 mg) before seating them in motorized chairs that were designed to simulate choppy seas. The subjects were instructed to stop the chairs when they felt sick. Those who took the ginger powder lasted 57 percent longer than those who took Dramamine.

To keep things simple, try taking 1,000 mg of dried ginger 30 minutes before you set sail or get in the car. Those who are more unsteady can safely opt for 2,000 mg.

If you find yourself queasy while in motion, try some ginger ale or gingerbread cookies. Rose Witte, acclaimed yachtswoman, recommends candied ginger, which is widely available. Be sure to brush teeth and rinse well after this sweet treat.

Another Form of Ginger

Ajuron, an Ayurvedic ginger compound, can also alleviate nausea and vomiting associated with motion sickness. Look for ready-made stomach remedies containing ajuron at your health food store. The advantage of ajuron over other ginger remedies? You don't need to take as large a dose. Follow package instructions.

Mind Over Matter

The most important elements to remedy motion sickness are attitude and behavior. Keeping your mind on success and not focusing on any feelings of discomfort will be a huge help in overcoming the challenge of the sea or other motion.

And, while you're keeping your mind on success, be sure to keep your eyes on the horizon. If you must go below deck, keep your eyes focused outside--this will allow your brain to avoid the mixed signals that can lead to sickness.

Acupressure

Sea Bands, straps that attach to the wrists to stimulate acupuncture points, can be very effective. They are inexpensive and available in most sporting stores.

Also please remember that EFT can do wonders for motion sickness. You can download my free 25 page EFT manual for instructions on how to do EFT. For specific examples on how EFT helps with motion sickness, you will want to check out the following articles from Gary Craig's site:

• Jason's Motion Sickness
• Car sickness
• A very detailed message on a young girl's motion sickness

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Acupuncture May Safely Treat Morning Sickness

Simple Measures May Prevent Motion Sickness