What causes motion sickness?
Vestibular system dysfunction
The human ear comprises three parts: inner, middle, and outer ear. The vestibular organs in the inner ear detect stimuli from specific movements and regulate balance perception. These include three semicircular canals and peripheral receptors like the utricle and saccule. When stimulated, they generate excessive bioelectric signals transmitted to the nervous system.During vehicle motion—such as acceleration, swaying, braking, bumpy roads, or sudden changes in speed—stimuli exceeding the tolerance threshold of these vestibular receptors can trigger discomfort symptoms like dizziness, nausea, and vomiting.
Physical discomfort contributes
If one has a cold or upper respiratory infection before traveling, viruses may invade the inner ear's vestibular balance system. Combined with physical discomfort, immunity may decline, reducing the body's ability to adapt to and tolerate environmental changes. This can make motion sickness more likely than usual.
Visual Factors
Some passengers enjoy gazing out the window during travel. At high speeds, stationary objects outside appear to move relative to the vehicle. This creates a mismatch between visual input and vestibular signals transmitted to the brain's control center. For instance, the eyes perceive objects receding backward while the vestibular system senses forward motion. This conflict confuses the brain, increasing susceptibility to motion sickness.Therefore, those prone to motion sickness should rest with their eyes closed or avoid looking out the window. Constitutional Factors Individuals with weaker constitutions are more susceptible to motion sickness than those with stronger physical fitness. This stems from lower immunity and reduced adaptability. Such individuals should focus on regular exercise to strengthen their bodies.
How to Relieve Motion Sickness
1. Massage the Jiuwei Acupoint
If you experience severe nausea every time you ride in a vehicle, massaging the Jiuwei acupoint can provide relief. This point is located directly below the pit of the stomach, slightly below the lowest rib. Massaging it when feeling nauseous can alleviate symptoms.
2. Apply Fresh Ginger Slices to the Navel
Frequent sufferers can prepare a slice of fresh ginger before travel and place it over the navel. The warming sensation from the ginger stimulates the area, helping to alleviate motion sickness discomfort.
2. Inhale orange peel
If orange peel is available when motion sickness strikes, hold it with the peel facing outward under your nose. Squeeze it gently and breathe in the aroma. The essential oils released from the peel emit a fragrant scent. Continuous inhalation of this scent can help alleviate motion sickness.Green Oil or White Flower Oil
If you frequently experience motion sickness, carry Green Oil or White Flower Oil. When symptoms arise, apply it to your temples and gently massage. Alternatively, place a drop on your navel and cover it with an analgesic patch for similar relief.