Originally published in 2014. Updated in 2026 with revised information and additional guidance.
Following on from our article Seasickness Remedies, here are some alternative seasickness remedies if you prefer a more natural approach to preventing nausea while at sea.
Many sailors look for natural seasickness remedies before turning to medication, especially for shorter trips or when sailing regularly.
If you prefer medical options, you may also want to read our guide to Seasickness Remedies.
If you are interested in the science behind motion sickness, you may also like to read our article Why Do People Get Seasick?, which explains why the body reacts this way to the motion of a boat.
Ginger
Ginger has long been associated with relieving nausea and digestive upset. Because of this, it is often mentioned as one of the most popular alternative seasickness remedies.
Some studies have looked at ginger’s effectiveness for motion sickness, though results have been mixed. Despite this, many people report that ginger helps reduce nausea.
Ginger can be taken in several forms, including:
- ginger tea
- ginger biscuits
- crystallised ginger
- ginger supplements
As with any supplement, it is sensible to check for possible interactions with medications if you take them regularly.
Acupressure Bands
Acupressure bands are elastic wristbands that are worn around the wrists. They apply gentle pressure to an acupressure point known as P6 (Neiguan), located on the inside of the wrist between the tendons.
These bands are widely sold as a natural motion sickness remedy and are popular among sailors, cruisers and travellers.
Scientific evidence on their effectiveness is limited, but many people do report relief when using them. As they are inexpensive and have no known side effects, they are often worth trying.
Seasickness Glasses
You may have seen seasickness glasses at boat shows or online. These unusual-looking glasses contain a fluid-filled frame that creates an artificial horizon visible to the wearer.
The idea is that the moving fluid helps the eyes perceive the same motion that the inner ear is detecting. By aligning the signals between the eyes and the inner ear, the glasses aim to reduce the sensory conflict that causes motion sickness.
They certainly look unusual, but some people do find them helpful.
Blocking One Ear
This is a slightly unusual tip that occasionally appears in discussions about alternative seasickness remedies.
The idea is that if you begin to feel seasick, you place a soft plug in one ear only. This might be an earplug, cotton wool or tissue.
The theory is that by disrupting signals from one ear, the brain may rely more on visual input from the eyes rather than conflicting balance signals from the inner ear.
I tried this on a trip to Cowes during Cowes Week, when a few friends and I were anchored while watching the fireworks. The conditions were fairly rough and the boat was rolling while we were below deck preparing dinner. Two crew members started to feel unwell, so I mentioned this tip and they each placed tissue in one ear.
Interestingly, it seemed to halt the nausea and they remained cheerful for the rest of the evening.
If you try this method, use common sense and only use soft materials that cannot damage the ear or become stuck.
Final Thoughts on Alternative Seasickness Remedies
Different sailors find relief using different methods, and what works for one person may not work for another. Trying a few alternative seasickness remedies may help you discover what works best for you before turning to medication.
If you are particularly prone to seasickness, combining several approaches, such as fresh air, looking at the horizon and natural remedies, can often help.
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