Are you someone who dreads long car rides or gets seasick on boats?
Motion sickness can be an unpleasant and inconvenient condition that affects many people.
While there are over-the-counter medications available, they can often cause drowsiness and other unwanted side effects.
Fortunately, there may be a natural and effective alternative: cannabidiol, or CBD.
CBD is a non-psychoactive compound found in the cannabis plant that has gained popularity for its potential therapeutic properties.
In this article, we’ll explore how CBD can help relieve motion sickness symptoms and discuss the different forms and methods of administration that may work best for you.
Get ready to say goodbye to motion sickness and hello to more enjoyable travels with the help of CBD!
Table of Contents
Understanding Motion Sickness
Motion sickness is a condition that occurs when there is a mismatch between the information your brain receives from your senses, particularly your balance and equilibrium, and what you see.
It can be an uncomfortable and sometimes debilitating experience. Lets take a look at what causes motion sickness, its triggers, symptoms, and how to detect it.
Causes and Triggers
The exact cause of motion sickness is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to a conflict between the visual and balance-related sensory inputs processed by your brain.
Your vestibular system, located in the inner ear, is responsible for detecting motion and maintaining your balance.
This system consists of three semicircular canals and two structures called the saccule and utricle, which work together to send information about your body’s movements to your brain.
When the visual cues you receive from your eyes conflict with the motion sensed by your vestibular system, your brain has a hard time interpreting the mixed signals, leading to motion sickness.
Common triggers for motion sickness include:
- Car, plane, or boat travel
- Virtual reality experiences
- Amusement park rides
- Watching moving objects or videos
Symptoms and Detection
The symptoms of motion sickness can vary between individuals, but they generally include:
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Vomiting
- Cold sweats
- Salivation
- Headache
- Appearance of pale skin
- Feeling of fatigue
Typically, the symptoms of motion sickness begin with a feeling of uneasiness and discomfort.
Nausea may set in shortly after, followed by other symptoms as the condition worsens.
To detect motion sickness, look for the onset of these symptoms, particularly when you are in motion or exposed to conflicting sensory cues.
Be aware of your own susceptibility to motion sickness – some people are more prone to experiencing it due to genetic or environmental factors.
CBD for Motion Sickness
Motion sickness can be a debilitating condition for some people, causing nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and anxiety.
Many find relief through traditional over-the-counter medications, but these can have unwanted side effects.
In recent years, the use of CBD for motion sickness has gained attention as a natural and potentially more effective option.
How CBD Helps
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a non-intoxicating cannabinoid found in cannabis.
Unlike THC, CBD does not produce a “high” and has been shown to have numerous therapeutic benefits.
For motion sickness, CBD can help target multiple causes of the condition simultaneously.
Research suggests that CBD inhibits fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), an enzyme responsible for breaking down endocannabinoids, which play a crucial role in regulating stress, inflammation, and nausea.
Endocannabinoid System
Your endocannabinoid system is a complex cell-signaling system that plays a vital role in maintaining your body’s homeostasis.
It affects various physiological processes, including mood, pain, appetite, and digestion. CBD interacts with this system by binding to receptors called CB1 and CB2, which are found throughout your body.
These receptors help modulate the release of neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, that play a significant role in regulating nausea and vomiting.
Serotonin and CBD
Serotonin is a crucial neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood, appetite, and gut motility.
An imbalance in serotonin levels has been linked to motion sickness, as it can induce sensations of nausea and vomiting.
CBD’s impact on the serotonin receptors can help reduce these sensations, making it an effective option for those who experience motion sickness.
Additionally, CBD has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce the inflammation associated with motion sickness.
Inflammation can contribute to feelings of nausea and contribute to the overall discomfort experienced during travel.
While more clinical trials and research are needed to fully understand and confirm the effectiveness of CBD for motion sickness, current evidence indicates that CBD may be a valuable alternative to traditional medications.
Consider trying a CBD product, such as a tincture or gummy, to help manage your motion sickness symptoms while avoiding some of the undesirable side effects associated with common over-the-counter options.
CBD Products and Forms
When it comes to finding relief from motion sickness, there are various CBD product types and forms to choose from.
This makes it easy for you to select a method of consumption that best suits your preferences and needs.
Oils and Tinctures
CBD oils and tinctures are a popular choice for motion sickness, as they are easy to consume and have a high bioavailability.
You can place a few drops of oil or tincture under your tongue, wait for about 30 seconds to a minute, and then swallow.
Our Prosper Wellness CBD tinctures have a hint of peppermint which also helps with nausea symptoms in motion sickness.
Edibles and Capsules
CBD edibles, like gummies, and capsules are discreet and convenient options for those on the go.
They provide a predetermined dose of CBD per serving, making it easy to track and monitor your consumption.
However, the onset of effects may take longer compared to oils and tinctures because the CBD must pass through your digestive system before entering the bloodstream.
But once the effects set in, they usually last longer.
Topicals and Transdermal Patches
If you prefer not to ingest CBD, topicals and creams can be applied directly to your skin for localized relief.
This method may be suitable for individuals who experience motion sickness-induced dizziness or headaches.
Transdermal patches, on the other hand, slowly release CBD into your system over a prolonged period, offering sustained relief throughout the day.
Vaping and Smoking
For rapid relief from motion sickness symptoms, vaping or smoking CBD might be your best option.
The CBD is inhaled directly into your lungs, where it quickly enters your bloodstream and starts to take effect.
It is essential to note that vaping is not suitable for everyone, especially those with respiratory issues or allergies to certain vaping ingredients.
Regardless of the product type and form you choose, select high-quality CBD products from reputable brands – such as Prosper Wellness – to ensure safety and efficacy.
Also, consider discussing your CBD usage with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance based on your specific needs.
Dosage and Administration
When considering CBD for motion sickness, it’s necessary to understand how to properly determine the right dosage and best administration methods to ensure maximum effectiveness.
Determining the Right Dosage
Finding the appropriate dosage of CBD can be a personal process, as everyone’s body and needs are different.
It is generally recommended to start with a low dose, such as 5-10 mg, and gradually increase if needed until the desired effect is achieved.
We recommend higher dosages, such as 25 mg a day and increasing 25 mg every 3-4 weeks if needed.
It is essential to pay attention to how your body feels, any drowsiness, and the impact on your motion sickness symptoms to adjust the dose accordingly.
Keep in mind that dosing can also depend on the type of CBD product being used.
Remember, dosing CBD may involve some trial and error, as your needs may change over time or depending on the situation.
Consulting a Physician
It’s always a good idea to consult a physician before taking any new medication or supplement, especially if you are already on other medications or have pre-existing conditions.
A doctor can advise on the suitability of CBD as a treatment for motion sickness for your unique situation, help determine the best dosage, and monitor for any potential adverse reactions or interactions with other medications.
Your physician may also recommend other treatments or supplements, such as ginger, to help alleviate your motion sickness symptoms alongside using CBD.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions and discuss your concerns with the doctor, as their insight can be crucial in ensuring you receive the best care possible.
Alternative Treatments
Dramamine and Scopolamine
Aside from CBD, there are other medications available to help manage motion sickness symptoms.
Dramamine (dimenhydrinate) is an over-the-counter medication that works by blocking specific signals in your brain, reducing the feeling of motion sickness.
Another option is scopolamine, a prescription medication available as a transdermal patch, which can help control nausea and vomiting by acting on the nerve pathways involved in motion sickness.
Natural Remedies and Supplements
For those who prefer natural remedies, there are several options to consider.
Ginger has long been used as a natural treatment for nausea and is thought to help with motion sickness by reducing inflammation and blocking certain signals in the brain.
Peppermint, as we mentioned, is another herb that can potentially help with motion sickness symptoms, given its ability to promote saliva production and soothe an upset stomach.
- Ginger (Zingiber officinalis)
- Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis)
- Chamomile (Matricaria recutita)
- Peppermint (Mentha piperita)
Additionally, over-the-counter medications like Benadryl (diphenhydramine) and Marezine (cyclizine) can also help with motion sickness symptoms, as they have antihistamine properties that can reduce nausea and vomiting.
Techniques and Strategies
There are also several techniques and strategies you can employ to help minimize motion sickness.
Focusing your gaze on the horizon or looking out the window can help reorient your eyes and brain to the motion, reducing the feelings of dizziness and nausea often associated with motion sickness.
Avoid reading or engaging in activities that involve focusing on a single point or object, as this can exacerbate your symptoms.
Managing your breathing is another helpful technique, as shallow breathing or holding your breath can intensify motion sickness symptoms.
Utilize deep, controlled breaths to help calm your body and reduce symptoms like pale skin and loss of appetite.
Steering clear of spicy or heavily flavored foods before and during travel can help, as they can contribute to nausea and gastrointestinal discomfort.
Preventing Motion Sickness
Preventing motion sickness can significantly enhance your travel experience, whether you’re on a car trip, a boat ride, or a flight.
Thankfully, there are several methods that can help minimize motion sickness symptoms.
When traveling, try to sit in the most stable part of your transportation method.
For example, when on a boat, staying closer to the center is usually more stable, reducing your chances of experiencing sea sickness.
In a car or bus, sitting near the front or directly above the wheels can help alleviate car sickness.
For air travel, selecting a seat over the wings often results in less movement during a flight.
Another technique is to focus your gaze on the horizon or the direction of travel.
This can help reorient your eyes and brain to the motion, easing symptoms of motion sickness across various forms of transportation.
Additionally, taking deep breaths and maintaining good ventilation can further alleviate discomfort.
Over-the-counter remedies like Bonine can assist in managing motion sickness.
However, if you’re looking for a more natural option, consider using CBD oil.
CBD has been shown to be effective in treating nausea and vomiting associated with motion sickness by working on multiple sensor reactions in the body.
Some other natural remedies for preventing motion sickness include:
- Drinking plenty of water to stay adequately hydrated
- Avoiding heavy or greasy meals before travel
- Using acupressure wristbands or practicing acupressure techniques
- Chewing gum or sipping on a non-carbonated beverage
By incorporating these methods and using CBD oil, you can help minimize your chances of experiencing motion sickness during your next trip.
Potential Side Effects and Risks
While CBD has shown promising results for motion sickness, it’s essential to be aware of the potential side effects and risks associated with its use.
In general, CBD is considered safe and well-tolerated.
However, some people may experience side effects, such as:
- Dry mouth
- Diarrhea
- Reduced appetite
- Drowsiness
- Fatigue
Although these side effects are generally mild and temporary, they could be more pronounced in some individuals, especially when taking high doses of CBD or using it frequently.
CBD and Drug Interactions
One of the primary concerns with CBD use is its potential interaction with other medications you may be taking.
CBD can interfere with certain medications, including blood thinners, leading to harmful effects or worsening your condition.
As a result, it is crucial that you consult your healthcare provider before incorporating CBD into your motion sickness treatment plan.
In some cases, the interaction between CBD and your medication may cause undesirable effects such as increased drowsiness, confusion, or blurred vision.
These symptoms can make your kinetosis (motion sickness) worse, so it is essential to be cautious and deliberate when considering CBD as a treatment option.
Furthermore, the purity and dosage of CBD in products can be unreliable, with some studies finding contaminants in commercially available CBD products.
To minimize the risk of contaminants and ensure the appropriate dosage, purchase your CBD products from reputable sources and follow the product’s recommended dosage instructions.
Recommendations
When it comes to dealing with motion sickness, whether in a plane or a car, CBD oil derived from the hemp plant can be a helpful remedy for you.
As a natural product, CBD interacts with your body’s endocannabinoid system to potentially alleviate symptoms such as nausea and dizziness, which are commonly associated with motion sickness.
Choosing the right CBD product is essential for the best results.
You may opt for either a CBD isolate or a full-spectrum CBD oil, depending on your preferences and needs. We offer both.
A full-spectrum product contains other cannabinoids and terpenes that might contribute to an entourage effect, possibly enhancing the overall benefits.
CBD isolate, on the other hand, contains only CBD without any other cannabinoids or terpenes.
It’s a suitable option if you prefer a THC-free product without any other chemical constituents from the hemp plant.
To address motion sickness symptoms, it is crucial to understand the role of your inner ears and canals in creating the sensation of motion sickness.
The vestibular system in your inner ears detects movement and communicates with your brain, causing you to feel disoriented and nauseous.
CBD may help in this scenario by regulating the signaling within the endocannabinoid system and potentially reducing the impact of motion sickness on your body.
CBD for Motion Sickness FAQs
Can I mix CBD with Dramamine?
So, there aren’t any super serious interactions between CBD and Dramamine that we know of, but that doesn’t mean mixing them is a good idea for everyone. People can react differently to meds and supplements, and combining them might lead to more side effects or make them less effective. You know, Dramamine can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and dry mouth. CBD might also make some folks drowsy or dizzy. So, if you mix the two, you could end up feeling even more of those side effects.
Does CBD oil help with nausea and dizziness?
There’s some early research that suggests CBD might help. It seems to interact with certain brain receptors, which could help manage nausea and vomiting. In fact, some people even use it alongside traditional treatments for chemo-related nausea. As for dizziness, there isn’t a ton of research yet, but since CBD has anti-anxiety and anti-inflammatory properties, it could potentially help with some causes of dizziness.
But just remember, we still need more studies to fully understand how it works. So, if you’re thinking about giving CBD oil a try for these symptoms, it’s a good idea to chat with your healthcare provider first. They can guide you based on your specific situation and medical history.
What cannabinoid stops nausea?
Well, there are two main ones from cannabis plants that could potentially help: CBD and THC. They both can help with nausea, but they work differently. THC is the stuff that gets you “high” when using marijuana. It’s been shown to reduce nausea and vomiting, especially for folks going through chemo. In fact, there are some FDA-approved meds like dronabinol (Marinol) and nabilone (Cesamet) that use synthetic THC for treating nausea and vomiting from chemo when other treatments haven’t worked. Now, CBD is the non-psychoactive compound, meaning it doesn’t get you “high.” It might help with nausea and vomiting too. Some studies think CBD works with specific receptors in the brain to help manage these symptoms. But we need more research on CBD and nausea to really know how effective it is.
Does CBD settle your stomach?
Well, some people do find that CBD might help with stomach issues, including discomfort and inflammation. There’s some evidence to suggest that CBD could potentially have a positive effect on the digestive system by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system. But, just like with many things related to CBD, more research is needed to fully understand how it works and how effective it is at settling your stomach. If you’re thinking about trying CBD for stomach issues, it’s a good idea to have a chat with your healthcare provider first. They can give you personalized advice based on your specific situation and medical history.
So, if you’re someone who struggles with motion sickness, CBD could be a natural and effective solution that doesn’t come with the unwanted side effects of traditional medications.
Research has shown that CBD can help alleviate symptoms such as nausea and vomiting by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system.
Whether you prefer CBD oil tinctures, capsules, or topicals, there are various forms and methods of administration that may work best for you.
While further research is needed to fully understand the effectiveness of CBD for motion sickness, many people have reported positive experiences using CBD to manage their symptoms.
As always, we recommend consulting with a healthcare professional before trying any new treatments for motion sickness.
At Prosper Wellness, we offer a range of high-quality CBD products that are made from organic hemp and third-party lab tested for purity and potency, so you can trust that you’re getting a product that meets your needs.
Don’t let motion sickness hold you back from enjoying your travels – give CBD a try and experience the relief you’ve been looking for!