15 Home Remedies to Stop Vomiting During Pregnancy

Discover gentle, science-backed home remedies and food tips to effectively manage morning sickness and vomiting during pregnancy.

Written by Sneha Tete, Integrated MA, Certified Relationship Coach
Last Updated on

 

Pregnancy brings excitement, anticipation, and often, the unwelcome companion of morning sickness. Nausea and vomiting affect a large proportion of pregnant women, especially in the first trimester. Fortunately, a variety of home remedies and nutritional strategies are available to help manage this discomfort naturally and safely. This guide explores 15 effective remedies, helpful herbs, dietary advice, and answers to common questions about limiting vomiting during pregnancy.

Understanding Pregnancy-Related Vomiting

Vomiting during pregnancy, commonly known as morning sickness, is typically caused by hormonal fluctuations—particularly increased levels of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and estrogen. While bothersome, it’s generally considered a normal part of early pregnancy, peaking between weeks 6 and 12. Symptoms often taper off in the second trimester, although some may experience persistent symptoms throughout pregnancy. Severe, relentless vomiting (hyperemesis gravidarum) requires medical intervention.

Home Remedies to Stop Vomiting During Pregnancy

Note: Consult your healthcare provider before starting any home remedy, especially if symptoms worsen or you have pre-existing medical conditions.

1. Oranges

The fresh, citric aroma of oranges has an instant soothing effect on nausea. The vitamin C content also helps boost immunity and general wellness during pregnancy.

  • You’ll Need: 1 teaspoon of powdered orange peel, 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
  • Suck on orange peel powder, then sip orange juice when discomfort sets in.

2. Water

Staying hydrated is crucial during pregnancy, especially if you’re vomiting and at risk of dehydration. Sipping small amounts of water throughout the day, or sucking ice chips, helps prevent excessive fluid loss and soothes nausea.

  • Refresh yourself with at least 8 glasses of water daily.
  • Try sipping slowly to test your stomach’s tolerance.

3. Ginger

Ginger has a long history as a remedy for digestive discomfort. The bioactive compounds in ginger promote gastrointestinal relaxation and help curb nausea.

  • Options: Ginger tea, ginger candies, biscuits, or ginger chews
  • Drink ginger tea up to 2-3 times daily or snack on ginger treats as needed.

4. Lemon

The invigorating scent of lemon acts as a natural antiemetic. Sucking on lemon wedges, adding lemon juice to water, or simply smelling a lemon peel can offer relief.

  • Try lemon-infused water or herbal teas with a squeeze of fresh lemon.

5. Peppermint

Peppermint essential oil, teas, or candies can ease nausea by relaxing the stomach muscles. If using essential oils, inhale gently—never ingest undiluted oils during pregnancy.

  • Brew peppermint tea or savor sugar-free peppermint candies during bouts of queasiness.

6. Fennel Seeds

Fennel is reputed to settle the stomach and lessen nausea. Chewing a teaspoon of fennel seeds or drinking fennel tea after meals aids in digestion and staves off queasiness.

  • Chew fennel seeds or steep them in hot water for a mild, flavorful tea.

7. Cloves

Cloves possess subtle anesthetic properties and may reduce vomiting episodes during pregnancy. Suck on a clove or add clove powder to herbal teas for extra relief.

8. Cinnamon

Cinnamon’s distinctive flavor can help calm the gastrointestinal tract. Sprinkle it into oatmeal, smoothies, or teas for both taste and antiemetic benefit.

9. Apple Cider Vinegar

A mild solution of apple cider vinegar and honey in water may alleviate nausea.

  • Mix 1 tablespoon of ACV and 1 tablespoon of honey in warm water and sip slowly.

10. Curry Leaves

Curry leaves, known for their soothing effects on digestion, can help curb vomiting. Extract the juice, combine with a bit of lemon juice and honey, and drink this natural tonic in moderation.

11. Rice Water

Rice water is gentle, easy to digest, and helps replenish fluids lost after vomiting. Boil rice with extra water, strain the liquid, cool, and sip slowly.

  • This is especially useful after repetitive vomiting.

12. Cold Foods

Cold, bland foods—like chilled fruit, yogurt, or ice chips—may be tolerated better than hot foods, reducing the risk of nausea triggers from strong aromas.

13. Cumin Seeds

Cumin aids digestion and reduces gas. Chew a pinch of dry roasted cumin seeds or steep them in hot water for a quick antiemetic tea.

14. Vegetable Soups

Clear vegetable broths are gentle on the stomach and offer essential fluids and nutrients after an episode of vomiting. Gradually reintroduce nutrient-rich foods with easy-to-digest soups.

  • Try homemade vegetable or chicken broth, sipping small amounts before returning to solids.

15. Almonds

Protein-rich almonds help stabilize blood sugar and ease morning sickness. Enjoy a handful of soaked almonds as a bedtime snack or nibble throughout the day.

Herbs for Pregnancy Nausea

In addition to the home remedies above, certain herbs may also be beneficial, but always check with your healthcare provider before trying new botanicals during pregnancy.

  • Raspberry Leaf: Traditionally used to ease morning nausea and muscle cramps. Use caution if you have gestational diabetes.
  • Cardamom: Evidence suggests that cardamom aromatherapy can reduce vomiting episodes. Add a few crushed pods to boiling water or inhale its essential oil lightly.
  • Slippery Elm: Anecdotal reports mention its usefulness for calming nausea and soothing the digestive tract.
  • Other herbs such as spearmint, lavender, and lemon balm may help, though robust scientific research remains limited.

What to Eat After Vomiting During Pregnancy

Vomiting can cause nutrient depletion and dehydration. After vomiting, ease your way back to regular eating with the following tips:

1. Increase Your Fluid Intake

  • Aim for 6–8 glasses of water per day.
  • Include gentle herbal teas like chamomile (consult doctor before use).
  • Mix apple cider vinegar and honey in water for a calming drink.

2. Consume Protein-Rich Foods

  • Incorporate eggs, Greek yogurt, nut butters, or lentil soups for sustained energy and reduced nausea.
  • Studies support the role of protein in reducing morning sickness symptoms.

3. Eat Soda Crackers or Bars

  • Starch-rich crackers or bland cereal bars can absorb stomach acids and curb queasiness.
  • Keep snacks by your bedside and eat a few crackers before getting up in the morning.

4. Enjoy Ginger in Various Forms

  • Try ginger snaps, dried ginger candies, or small sips of ginger ale (natural, not artificially flavored).

5. Small, Frequent Meals

  • Avoid large, heavy meals, which can overwhelm the stomach.
  • Eat 5–6 small meals daily to prevent hypoglycemia and stabilize digestion.

Tips to Prevent Vomiting During Pregnancy

  • Get plenty of rest; fatigue worsens nausea.
  • Identify and avoid foods or smells that trigger sickness.
  • Eat something bland, like dry toast, before getting out of bed in the morning.
  • Maintain proper air ventilation in your home.
  • Wear loose, comfortable clothing.
  • Get up slowly from bed to minimize sudden nausea.

Medical Treatments and When to Seek Help

While most cases of nausea and vomiting in pregnancy are manageable at home, persistent or severe symptoms can indicate hyperemesis gravidarum and may require medical attention. Warning signs include:

  • Severe, uncontrollable vomiting
  • Signs of dehydration (dry mouth, reduced urination)
  • Weight loss
  • Fever or abdominal pain

Treatment for severe symptoms may include vitamin B6, doxylamine, antihistamines, or intravenous fluids per your doctor’s recommendation. Do not take new medications or supplements without consulting your healthcare provider.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How long does morning sickness last during pregnancy?

A: Morning sickness usually peaks during the first trimester (weeks 6–12) and often resolves by the second trimester. However, some women may experience symptoms throughout their pregnancy.

Q: Are home remedies safe for everyone during pregnancy?

A: Most kitchen-based remedies, such as ginger, lemons, and peppermint, are generally safe. However, always discuss new remedies or herbs with your doctor, particularly if you take medications or have health conditions.

Q: What foods should I avoid to reduce nausea?

A: Limit fried, fatty, spicy, and highly processed foods, as well as foods or scents that trigger nausea. Focus on bland, high-protein options and small, frequent meals.

Q: When should I contact a doctor about vomiting in pregnancy?

A: Consult your healthcare provider if you are unable to keep any food or liquid down, show signs of dehydration, lose weight, or have persistent vomiting beyond early pregnancy.

Quick Reference Table: Remedies and Tips for Vomiting in Pregnancy

Remedy or TipHow to UseKey Benefit
OrangesSuck on peel, sip juiceInstant natural relief from nausea
GingerTea, candies, or chewsReduces nausea, soothes digestion
LemonAdd to water or inhale aromaNeutralizes queasy stomach
PeppermintTea, candies, aromaRelaxes stomach muscles
Fennel SeedsChew or make teaSettles stomach, eases nausea
AlmondsEat soaked or as a snackProtein-rich, reduces morning sickness
HydrationFrequent sips of water, brothsPrevents dehydration post-vomiting
Soda CrackersEat plain, especially in morningAbsorbs gastric acid, curbs nausea

Final Thoughts

Vomiting during pregnancy can be exhausting, but gentle home remedies and smart nutrition choices offer effective, natural relief. Prioritize hydration, protein, and small, frequent meals, and always consult a healthcare professional for persistent or severe symptoms. With proper care, most women can minimize the discomfort of pregnancy-related nausea and enjoy a healthier, more comfortable journey to motherhood.

Sneha Tete
Sneha TeteBeauty & Lifestyle Writer
Sneha is a relationships and lifestyle writer with a strong foundation in applied linguistics and certified training in relationship coaching. She brings over five years of writing experience to thebridalbox, crafting thoughtful, research-driven content that empowers readers to build healthier relationships, boost emotional well-being, and embrace holistic living.

Read full bio of Sneha Tete
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