Vomiting and nausea are something that we have all experienced at some point. Most of us would vividly remember at least one episode of an occasional bout of gastroenteritis, food poisoning, morning sickness, migraine attack or throbbing hangover that kept us hunched over the toilet throwing up all day or night. There are several simple home remedies to treat it. Read on to find out more about home remedies for vomiting.
The act of vomiting also called ‘emesis’ in medical terms is the body’s way of protecting us against various perceived threats. These threats can appear as some poison or toxin that irritates the lining of the stomach, stress hormones in the blood or sometimes just spinning or swaying movements.
While vomiting is rarely a serious health concern, it is nevertheless unpleasant. It can leave you feeling considerably washed out, dehydrated and fatigued. The most common cause of vomiting in babies and children is found to be gastroenteritis.
Home Remedies for Vomiting
1. Apple Cider Vinegar
Research shows that apple cider vinegar has strong antimicrobial properties that can kill harmful E-coli bacteria and help in the detoxification of the stomach.
How to use?
You can take apple cider vinegar with warm water before your meals.
How much to use?
For one cup of hot water, take 1-2 tablespoons (15-30 ml) of undiluted apple cider vinegar.
[Read: Stop Vomiting Naturally]
2. Lemon juice
Lemon juice is another quick home remedy for vomiting. Lime juice contains citric acid which helps to provide instant relief to a queasy stomach by aiding in digestion. Too much of lime juice, however, can aggravate or worsen your symptoms.
How to use?
Mix equal parts of lime juice and honey and lick the mixture slowly using your finger.
How much to use?
You can start by taking one teaspoon of lime juice with one teaspoon of honey.
3. Onion
The Sulphur content in onions lends its strong antiseptic and antibiotic properties that can help kill harmful bacteria in the stomach.
How to use?
The juice of the onion is considered best for relief from vomiting and nausea.
How much to use?
Have one tablespoon of fresh onion juice.
[Read: Treat Nausea Naturally]
4. Cranberry Juice
Cranberry juice(1) is rich in phytochemicals and antioxidants which can not only help to improve digestion but also fight off harmful bacteria such as E-coli and Helicobacter pylori.
How to use?
Drink unsweetened cranberry juice diluted in water.
How much to use?
Dilute 2 ounces of cranberry juice in 8 ounces of water and drink.
[Read: Cranberry Juice Benefits]
5. Ginger Ale
Ginger ale is an old time remedy that is considered effective as it contains ginger root which has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-emetic properties.
How to use it?
When using ginger ale for vomiting, ensure that the drink is ‘flat’ as carbonated drinks can upset the stomach further. Try to buy a certified organic brand to ensure that the drink is made of natural ingredients.
How much to use?
Drink small amounts of ginger ale as it is high in sugar. You can also simply chew on raw ginger for relief from vomiting and nausea.
[Read: Ginger for Nausea]
6. Cinnamon
Cinnamon contains a chemical called catechins that help with a host of digestive problems. The spice is also packed with potent antiviral and antibacterial properties that can detoxify the system and alleviate nausea and other digestive issues.
How to use?
A simple tea made with cinnamon powder and boiling water is recommended as a remedy for vomiting and stomach pain.
How much to use?
Take one cup of warm water and stir in ¼ tsp of cinnamon powder. Drink as often as required.
7. Fennel
Fennel(2), an age-old remedy for treating indigestion and gastroenteritis in Chinese medicine contains compounds such as fenchone, anethole, and estragole that have antispasmodic and carminative properties. This can help relieve problems such as bloating, gas pains, stomach cramps, and nausea.
How to use?
Fennel tea is an effective medicine for vomiting
How much to use?
Take 1 to 1 1/2 teaspoons of fennel seeds and boil in one cup of water. Strain this and keep sipping slowly.
[Read: Herbs for Nausea]
| Treating vomiting with over-the-counter medicines can actually be bad as it interferes with the body’s ability to heal. |
If you are experiencing vomiting its best to rest your stomach and avoid solid foods for at least 24 hours. Once your vomiting begins to subside, you may start taking small and frequent sips of clear fluids such as water, apple juice, broth or light herb teas.
If you are feeling too nauseated to drink fluids, you can also suck on ice chips or popsicles. When you are able to keep down clear liquids, you can start on a BRAT diet.
FAQs
1. Can vomiting lead to any serious health complications?
The common problem associated with vomiting is dehydration. There are many serious complications that can arise from dehydration including seizures, low blood volume, shock, and even death.
2. How can vomiting be prevented?
Practicing good hygiene and avoiding foods that are raw and undercooked could help to prevent vomiting. However, since there are so many possible causes, it may not be possible to completely prevent it.
3. Can vomiting be treated with antibiotics?
Antibiotics should not be used to treat either of these conditions unless specifically prescribed by a doctor for a culture-proven bacterial infection.
