There has been a recent growth interest in natural remedies and the medicinal properties of herbs and plants.  This can be especially true for emetophobes who are wary of taking any drugs which might involve nausea and/or vomiting as side-effects.

St John's Wort is widely accepted as a natural antidepressant useful for treating mild depression or Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).  It also has antibacterial properties but, due to its instability, its anti-microbial uses have not been extensively researched.

Ginger is widely used in Chinese medicine for the treatment of nausea.  Ginger has a soothing effect on the brain and can help relieve nausea.  However, it has NO soothing effect on the stomach. Since travel-sickness is caused by over-stimulation of the balance system in the brain, ginger is also included in some travel sickness remedies, e.g. Travelcaps, for its soothing effects on the brain. A recent Ginger trial  reported that 2 x 500mg capsules is as effective a metoclopramide (Maxolon) or travel pills, Dramamine. This is certainly worth knowing as ginger is available without prescription, it’s readily available and cheap.  Since alcohol irritates the brain to cause nausea, it is thought that ginger might help reduce the effects of a hangover.  More information relating to ginger appears on the pregnancy page.

Apple:  is known to help relieve stomach and bowel disorders and may be helpful for nausea (remember the earlier Gut Reaction member's story whereby his mother always insisted he carry an apple to ensure he did not become ill?). Grate an apple and let it turn brown before eating it.

Liquorice can help relieve the pain associated with stomach ulcers and Chinese doctors have been using it for years to help treat nausea.  The underground stem of liquorice is sold as sticks, liquorice root, which can be chewed or sucked.  For medicinal purposes,  the root is crushed and boiled to make a juice which can then be used to make lozenges, powder or a liquid.    It is also used as a mild anti-depressant - boil and simmer for 10-15 minutes, half a teaspoon of root, allow to cool and  drink.  Three 'doses' per day are recommended.  Some research has suggested it can counter dental plaque and reduce decay.

Aloe Vera is considered an excellent remedy for bowel disorders such as IBS.

Lavender has a sedating effect upon the nervous system and can help treat insomnia, mild anxiety and headaches.  It is also antiseptic and can be applied to wounds.

Dandelion leaves are nutritious and boost digestive enzymes so can help with mild digestive problems.

Raspberry leaf tea can help ease diarrhoea and cramps associated with period pains. It can also help fight fluid retention and nausea.  Its astringent properties have a calming effect upon the stomach.

Rosemary can help ease mild depression, headaches and migraine.  

Mints are a great favourite of many emetophobes.  They stimulate the digestive system, and spearmint or peppermint tea drunk after meals, can be beneficial to a delicate stomach.  Similarly, peppermint essence diluted in warm water can be helpful.

Herbal Remedies are available from: