Disclaimer
The content provided on this blog is intended for educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. We strongly advise readers to seek guidance from a qualified healthcare professional regarding any medical concerns.
To reflect its medicinal nature rather than recreational use, we prefer the term ‘medical cannabis’ over terms such as ‘marijuana’, “grass”. or ‘dope’ which may carry negative connotations.
The opinions expressed in the blog belong to the respective authors, who are not medical professionals, and may not necessarily align with those of Lyphe Clinic. Lyphe Clinic does not endorse any specific products or services mentioned, except those provided through Lyphe Clinic.
Readers should be aware that the legality of medical cannabis varies by location, and this disclaimer may be subject to periodic updates.
Key Points
- Nausea is a distressing sensation often accompanied by vomiting, caused by triggers such as food poisoning, motion sickness, medications, and chemotherapy.
- While conventional antiemetic medications are widely used, natural remedies like ginger, peppermint, acupressure, and aromatherapy can also provide relief.
- Medical cannabis shows strong clinical evidence as an antiemetic (anti-nausea agent), particularly for patients experiencing chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV).
- A combination of lifestyle strategies, natural therapies, and medical cannabis (where appropriate) may help patients better manage nausea symptoms.
- In the UK, patients prescribed medical cannabis can legally access tailored treatment under specialist care through licensed clinics such as Lyphe
Introduction
Nausea is a deeply uncomfortable sensation that can interfere with daily life and recovery. For many people in the UK undergoing cancer treatment, nausea caused by chemotherapy is one of the most challenging side effects. While standard anti-nausea medications are often prescribed, they are not always effective and may cause unwanted side effects.
This article explores both natural remedies for nausea and the growing role of medical cannabis as a treatment option. Our aim is to provide UK patients with evidence-based insights, highlighting practical strategies and clinical alternatives available today.
Understanding Nausea: Causes, Symptoms, and Coping Strategies
Nausea is a common and distressing symptom that can significantly affect daily life. It often precedes vomiting but does not always result in it.
Common Causes of Nausea
Nausea can arise from a wide range of triggers.
Common causes include:
- Chemotherapy and cancer treatments: chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) is one of the most frequent and distressing side effects for cancer patients.
- Gastrointestinal issues: such as food poisoning, gastroenteritis, indigestion, or stomach ulcers.
- Migraines: often accompanied by nausea and sensitivity to light or sound.
- Motion sickness: caused by disrupted inner-ear balance when travelling.
- Medications: antibiotics, strong painkillers, and anaesthetic drugs can cause nausea.
- Emotional stress and anxiety: the brain–gut connection can trigger digestive upset.
Symptoms often include dizziness, excessive salivation, sweating, rapid heartbeat, and queasiness, sometimes leading to vomiting.
8 Natural Anti-Nausea Remedies
1. Medical Cannabis
Medical cannabis has shown significant potential in treating nausea, particularly CINV. In the UK, cannabis-based products for medicinal use (CBPMs) can be prescribed legally for certain conditions, including chemotherapy-related nausea, when other treatments have failed.
- THC (tetrahydrocannabinol): The psychoactive compound in cannabis that binds to CB1 receptors in the brain. It has well-documented antiemetic effects and has been used in clinical practice to suppress nausea and vomiting.
- CBD (cannabidiol): A non-psychoactive cannabinoid that may enhance anti-nausea effects by modulating serotonin signalling.
Clinical evidence:
- Studies published in the Journal of Pain and Symptom Management have shown cannabis significantly reduces nausea in cancer patients.
- UK and international clinical guidelines now acknowledge cannabis as a potential adjunct therapy for patients with treatment-resistant CINV.
At Lyphe, we specialise in prescribing medical cannabis for patients where standard treatments have not been effective. Our doctors work with patients to identify the most appropriate cannabis-based treatment plan, tailored to individual needs.
If you’re undergoing chemotherapy and struggling with nausea, you may be eligible for medical cannabis treatment in the UK. Book a consultation with Lyphe today.
2. Ginger
A traditional and scientifically supported remedy, ginger aids digestion and helps reduce nausea. Research suggests it is particularly effective for nausea linked to chemotherapy, anaesthesia, and motion sickness. Options include:
- Fresh ginger tea
- Ginger capsules
- Ginger chews or lozenges
3. Peppermint
Peppermint oil and tea have soothing effects on the digestive tract. In clinical studies, inhaled peppermint oil reduced chemotherapy-related nausea. Menthol, the active ingredient, provides a cooling, calming effect that can ease queasiness.
4. Lemons
Lemon contains neutralising acids and promotes saliva production, both of which may reduce nausea. Inhaling lemon essential oil or sipping diluted lemon water may help.
5. Acupressure
Applying pressure to the P6 (Neiguan) point on the inner wrist has been shown to relieve chemotherapy-induced nausea in randomised clinical trials. Patients can use acupressure wristbands for convenience.
6. Chamomile
Chamomile tea and aromatherapy may relieve both anxiety and nausea. Some studies suggest chamomile inhalation helps patients recovering from chemotherapy.
One 2019 clinical study published in the International Journal of Public Health Science found that chamomile aromatherapy can reduce nausea after chemotherapy.
7. Aromatherapy
Essential oils such as peppermint, ginger, and lavender have been studied for their anti-nausea effects. Aromatherapy is increasingly being used in UK hospitals as an adjunct to standard care for patients undergoing surgery or chemotherapy.
8. Lifestyle & Supportive Strategies
- Hydration: sip water or electrolyte drinks regularly.
- Light meals: bland, easily digestible foods (e.g., the BRAT diet: bananas, rice, applesauce, toast).
- Deep breathing: reduces stress and calms the digestive system.
- Cold compress: applying to the neck or forehead can help relieve nausea sensations.
- Rest: fatigue can worsen nausea symptoms.
Conclusion – Natural Nausea Relief and the Role of Medical Cannabis
Nausea, particularly when caused by chemotherapy, can severely affect quality of life. While natural remedies such as ginger, peppermint, chamomile, and acupressure can provide support, medical cannabis offers a clinically backed treatment option for patients with resistant symptoms.
At Lyphe, we are committed to helping UK patients access safe, legal, and effective medical cannabis treatments. If you are struggling with chemotherapy-related nausea, our team of experts can assess your eligibility and create a personalised treatment plan.
👉To book a consultation with a Lyphe specialist today to explore whether medical cannabis could help you manage nausea simply fill in our free eligibility form.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What relieves chemotherapy nausea fast?
Standard antiemetics are first-line treatment, but many patients also benefit from medical cannabis, peppermint oil, or acupressure bands.
Can medical cannabis help with chemotherapy-induced nausea in the UK?
Yes. Under UK law, patients may be prescribed cannabis-based medicines if conventional treatments have not worked. Clinics like Lyphe specialise in this.
What foods are best when feeling nauseous?
Bland, light foods such as crackers, toast, bananas, and rice. Avoid greasy, strong-smelling, or spicy foods.
Is ginger effective for nausea?
Yes. Ginger tea, capsules, and lozenges are all widely used to support digestive comfort and reduce nausea.
Do natural remedies replace medical treatment?
No. While remedies can help manage symptoms, persistent or severe nausea should always be discussed with a healthcare professional.
References
Parker, L. A., Rock, E. M., & Limebeer, C. L. (2011). Regulation of nausea and vomiting by cannabinoids. British Journal of Pharmacology, 163(7), 1411–1422.
Dibble, S. L., et al. (2007). Acupressure for chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting: A randomised clinical trial. Oncology Nursing Forum, 34(4).
Mapp, C., et al. (2020). Peppermint oil: Evaluating efficacy on nausea in chemotherapy patients. Clinical Journal of Oncology Nursing, 24(2).
Putri, I. N., et al. (2019). Chamomile aromatherapy reduces nausea. International Journal of Public Health Science, 8(3), 294-299.
Hines, S., et al. (2018). Aromatherapy for treatment of postoperative nausea and vomiting. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2018(3).
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