6 Tips to Relieve Morning Sickness Naturally?

What are the most effective natural methods to relieve pregnancy nausea?

• Targeted Herbal Medicine: Ginger is widely praised for its antiemetic properties, reducing the frequency and severity of vomiting (in infusion or in small quantities of candied ginger). Lemon (a source of vitamin B9) is an ally that stimulates the secretion of digestive enzymes from the liver and pancreas, soothing the stomach, ideally squeezed on an empty stomach with warm water. Mint and Chamomile can also be used as herbal teas for a relaxing effect on the digestive tract.
• Nutrient Optimization: Vitamin B6 is known for its ability to limit the peak of nausea. Magnesium contributes to muscle relaxation and can reduce the frequency of vomiting, while Zinc helps to better manage strong olfactory sensitivity. These nutrients are found in bananas, nuts, pumpkin seeds, and green leafy vegetables.
• Gentle Therapies and Good Dietary Practices: Acupuncture is a proven technique that acts on specific points to decrease the intensity and frequency of symptoms. Combine this with small, fractional meals of easily digestible foods and ensure sufficient rest to minimize stress, which can worsen nausea.

Whether you're in your early days or last months of pregnancy, nausea can sometimes spoil the experience. But we're here to reassure you. Whether it's a few unpleasant symptoms or significant vomiting, there are methods to relieve pregnancy nausea naturally. From plants and fruits to vitamins and minerals, including homeopathy, essential oils, and even acupuncture, discover effective natural remedies to make your pregnancy more comfortable. We'll tell you all about it in this article, let's go!

 

Why does this nausea occur?

Ah, it's hard to escape the infamous pregnancy nausea... For 3 out of 4 pregnant women, it appears without warning, especially in the first trimester. Not very polite, all that! But why does it happen, exactly? Several reasons for this.

The main culprit is the beta-hCG hormone. Produced in large quantities from the first weeks of pregnancy, it helps maintain embryonic development. Convenient, nonetheless. The problem is that this brutal hormonal rise disrupts your liver and stomach, causing that familiar sensation of queasiness.

Second culprit? Estrogens! Because these hormones can also play a disruptive role. Their increase makes your sense of smell more sensitive (and some odors become… unbearable).

Not to mention fatigue, stress, and hypoglycemia, also in the dock. And yes, your empty stomach upon waking is not your best ally in fighting pregnancy nausea (also called "morning sickness," it's no coincidence!). Because your blood sugar drops and, consequently, nausea runs wild. 

 

 

 

What are the common symptoms and duration of pregnancy-related nausea?

Like all respectful pregnancy symptoms, pregnancy nausea varies from one woman to another. Some only experience a slight aversion upon waking, while others feel like their stomach is in a full-blown storm. Here are, however, the most frequent symptoms:

• feeling of queasiness, especially in the morning (but sometimes all day long);
• sudden aversion to certain smells or foods;
• excessive salivation;
• unusual fatigue;
• loss of appetite;
• vomiting.

These symptoms usually appear between the 4th and 9th week of pregnancy and generally disappear towards the end of the 1st trimester. For some expectant mothers, nausea persists a little longer, especially when hormones continue to rise or the digestive system remains sensitive!

 

Plants and fruits against nausea

There are a variety of healthy pregnancy resources, such as plants and fruits, that can help you fight nausea.

 

• Lemon: an ally against morning sickness

Lemon is a must-have for fighting pregnancy nausea, as it is known for its effect on the stomach. An organic lemon squeezed first thing in the morning with warm water... That can really bring you relief! Moreover, our pregnancy vitamins are effective dietary supplements to combat the onset of nausea. Why? Thanks to vitamin B9, derived from lemon!

 

• Ginger: almost magical soothing properties

To say goodbye to nausea, also think about ginger! Famous for its antiemetic properties (= which acts against vomiting), this plant can reduce the severity and frequency of nausea in pregnant women. Candied ginger, in the form of an infusion, fresh ginger root... There's something for everyone. Be careful, however, to consume it in small quantities.

 

• Mint: a refreshing option to relieve nausea

Mint remains a very interesting option for nausea relief, thanks to its powerful aroma and soothing properties. You can consume it as an herbal tea: a relaxing effect guaranteed for your digestive tract!

 

• Chamomile: a gentle infusion to calm the stomach

We love chamomile for its gentle action on the stomach, as it reduces irritation and aids digestion. And thus, can also calm your nausea.

 

Vitamins and minerals to soothe nausea

Which vitamins and minerals should you preferably turn to in this situation?

 

• The importance of vitamins B6 and B12 in fighting nausea

Vitamin B6 is renowned for its ability to limit the peak of nausea in expectant mothers.

Vitamin B12, meanwhile, contributes to the overall well-being of the body. It can therefore support you in managing nausea symptoms.

 

• The benefits of magnesium and zinc to relieve symptoms

Magnesium is also beneficial in reducing pregnancy nausea. It helps relax muscles and can reduce the frequency of vomiting. 

Zinc, in turn, favorably influences the sense of taste and smell. Quite practical for pregnant women, who often develop a strong sensitivity to odors.

 

• Foods rich in these essential nutrients to include in your diet

Do you want to integrate these vitamins and minerals into your daily diet? It's not rocket science! For B6, you can indulge in bananas, nuts, and avocados.

As for B12, you'll find it in lean meats and dairy products.

For sources of magnesium, we recommend consuming pumpkin seeds and green leafy vegetables.

And finally, to get your fill of zinc, turn to oysters, red meat, and cocoa powder (without added sugar).

Finally, foods rich in fiber, iron, and vitamin D during pregnancy help maintain hormonal and digestive balance.

 

Omega 3s are pretty much the super fuel for pregnant women! Baby's brain, mood, hormonal balance... they do it all. We tell you why in our article on omega-3s and pregnancy.

 

Homeopathy: a gentle approach to combat nausea

Common homeopathic remedies used to relieve nausea

Homeopathy offers a gentle approach to relieving nausea in expectant mothers. However, to choose the right treatment, you should refer to a specialist or your doctor only if they are trained in this therapy. 

Essential oils to soothe nausea

Which essential oils are recommended to combat nausea? Use ginger or peppermint essential oil, known for their soothing properties, for quick relief from nausea.

To use them safely during pregnancy, choose to infuse them rather than apply them directly to the skin, or ingest them. Especially in the first trimester of pregnancy!

 

Acupuncture: a proven option to reduce nausea

Acupuncture during pregnancy can also relieve the onset of nausea. This traditional Chinese technique stimulates specific points on the body to rebalance energy. It can therefore help reduce nausea symptoms, their frequency, or their intensity. However, be careful to choose a practitioner specialized in obstetrical acupuncture. 

 

Practical tips and grandma's remedies to better cope with nausea

1. Wait before getting up to avoid morning sickness

If you suffer from morning sickness upon waking, try to take a few minutes before getting out of bed. You can keep dry foods within reach and eat them while lying down. This will help stabilize your stomach before starting your day.

 

2. Eat small portions and choose the right foods

Eating small quantities rather than three meals a day can also help manage your nausea. Choose easily digestible foods with no strong odors such as:

• cooked fruits;
• steamed vegetables;
• poultry breast.

This way, you will avoid overloading your stomach.

 

3. Reap the benefits of rest and relaxation to soothe your stomach

We're not reinventing the wheel by telling you that rest and relaxation play an important role in preventing nausea. Quality sleep and moments of relaxation can reduce stress (which can affect the intensity of nausea). What do you think about doing some meditation or deep breathing?

 

DIY herbal tea and anti-nausea drink recipes

Ginger herbal teas to calm nausea

For an effective anti-nausea herbal tea, nothing beats a good ginger base! Simply infuse a few slices of fresh ginger in hot water for 10 minutes, and voilà: an herbal tea ready to bring you quick relief. Add a touch of honey or a little lemon juice to improve the taste and enhance the effects.

Other herbal teas recommended for pregnant women

If you're not a fan of ginger, you can use other herbs in herbal teas like mint and lemon balm. Alone or combined, they can help calm the stomach while hydrating your body. Ideal for daily consumption!

A refreshing lemon and ginger drink

Fancy an alternative without infusion? Try this super simple homemade drink. Use the juice of one freshly squeezed organic lemon and add a few thin slices of fresh ginger. A little fresh sparkling water and a spoonful of mild honey... Mix everything in a carafe and let it infuse for 10 minutes in the refrigerator. Then sip slowly.

Lemon helps stimulate digestion, ginger reduces nausea, and the bubbles provide a thirst-quenching and soothing effect. Perfect for sipping throughout the day or after meals!

 

Precautions to take during pregnancy

1. Foods and drinks to avoid to reduce the risk of nausea

Nothing new under the sun: if you are pregnant, it is advisable to avoid certain foods and drinks that can cause nausea or pose risks to the future baby, such as:

• excess caffeine (avoid drinking several cups a day);
• fatty or very spicy foods;
• unpasteurized products (which are among the forbidden foods during pregnancy);
• alcohol.

 

2. Warning signs that require medical consultation

You'll have understood: nausea is one of the most common minor annoyances of pregnancy. And in the majority of cases, it remains benign. However, certain situations can hide something more serious. We advise you to remain vigilant if your nausea is accompanied by:

• significant weight loss;
• intense fatigue;
• repeated vomiting (more than 3 to 4 times a day);
• dizziness;
• signs of dehydration (dry mouth, infrequent and dark urine);
• abdominal pain;
• or fever.

These symptoms may indicate hyperemesis gravidarum, a severe form of pregnancy nausea. If this is your case, consult your midwife or doctor without delay. They will be able to offer you appropriate treatment and monitor your hydration.

 

In conclusion, pregnancy nausea is not inevitable. And you can manage it effectively from the first weeks thanks to natural remedies, some dietary adjustments, and gentle practices. You'll get through this!