Art patron Shalini Passi, who shot to instant fame after appearing on Netflix’s Fabulous Lives vs Bollywood Wives, has a simple remedy for dealing with motion sickness. In an interview with Galatta India, when asked about the three most important items she carried in her bag, she says, “Tissues with q-tips and my saunf (fennel seeds) because I get motion sickness and I feel dizzy a lot… so saunf really helps with that.” This traditional remedy, long used in various cultures, is known for its refreshing taste and potential to soothe the stomach. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Galatta Media (@galattadotcom) But is this effective? How do fennel seeds help alleviate symptoms of motion sickness? Dietician Anushree Sharma tells indianexpress.com, “Fennel seeds are well-known for their digestive benefits due to their anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties. These seeds contain a compound called anethole, also found in anise, which has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effects. Anethole helps relax and calm the digestive tract, easing symptoms like nausea and vomiting, making fennel effective for managing motion sickness.” Other natural remedies that work similarly to fennel seeds in managing motion sickness Yes, other natural remedies can help with motion sickness by providing similar anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial benefits. According to Sharma, these include: Mint: Known for its calming effects on the stomach, mint can help prevent nausea. Clove: Contains eugenol, which has anti-nausea properties. Cardamom: Contains essential oils like cineole that aid digestion. Ginger: Contains gingerol, an anti-nausea compound that can help reduce motion sickness. While the active compounds differ, all of these remedies function similarly to fennel in easing symptoms of motion sickness and promoting digestion. Precautions to take when using fennel seeds frequently Fennel seeds should be used sparingly and not in large amounts, Sharma cautions, as overconsumption can lead to adverse effects such as vomiting or digestive discomfort. “It’s best to consume fennel in moderate amounts, either directly or as a decoction, but always with caution.” Since fennel is more of a medicinal supplement than a regular food item, excessive intake should be avoided. Additionally, Sharma says people should check for possible allergies or interactions with medications before using fennel regularly. DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
