Nausea is a common symptom of discomfort, often triggered by various causes, including motion, early pregnancy, or medication side effects. For relief, many people turn to simple, accessible options, and the anecdotal use of cinnamon-flavored chewing gum has become a popular topic of discussion. The core question is whether this readily available product offers any real, measurable benefit for an upset stomach.
Examining the Specific Efficacy of Cinnamon Gum
The direct scientific evidence for cinnamon-flavored gum as a standalone anti-nausea remedy is limited. Large-scale clinical trials focusing on commercial cinnamon gum and general nausea are lacking. However, studies on chewing gum in the post-operative setting provide an indirect view, showing mixed but promising results for the physical act of chewing. One initial pilot trial suggested that chewing gum might be as effective as a standard anti-nausea medication in treating post-operative nausea and vomiting (PONV) after certain surgeries.
A larger, subsequent multicenter trial concluded that chewing gum could not replace established anti-emetic drugs for PONV. Most commercial cinnamon gum relies on synthetic flavorings rather than concentrated, pure cinnamon extract. True cinnamon and its relative Cassia contain active compounds traditionally used for digestive issues, including nausea. However, the trace amounts of flavoring in a stick of gum are unlikely to provide these benefits. The only direct study on cinnamon for nausea involved ingesting a powdered combination of cinnamon and ginger, which was effective for chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV), but this did not involve chewing gum.
The Dual Mechanism of Nausea Relief
The potential relief offered by cinnamon gum involves two distinct modes of action: the physical process of chewing and the chemical properties of the cinnamon flavor. The rhythmic action of chewing provides a neurological distraction from the discomfort of nausea. This repetitive motion stimulates saliva production, which is naturally alkaline and contains bicarbonate, helping to neutralize excess stomach acid that may contribute to the unsettled feeling.
The mechanical action of chewing also engages the cephalic-vagal reflex, a communication pathway between the brain and the gastrointestinal tract mediated by the vagus nerve. Stimulating the vagus nerve activates the parasympathetic nervous system, responsible for the “rest and digest” state. This action can calm the entire digestive system and reduce symptoms of distress. This neurological effect is independent of the gum’s flavor and contributes significantly to the relief experienced.
The secondary mechanism involves the aromatic and chemical properties of cinnamon. The distinct smell is primarily due to the compound cinnamaldehyde, which, along with eugenol, makes up a large part of the plant’s volatile oil. Unlike other sensory information, smell travels a direct route to the limbic system, which controls emotion, memory, and autonomic nervous system responses.
This direct access means a pleasant aroma can quickly influence emotional state and perception of discomfort, offering a form of aromatherapy that may soothe nausea. While cinnamon compounds aid gut motility and possess anti-inflammatory properties, the concentration required for a true physiological effect is much higher than that found in flavored gum. Therefore, any chemical relief from the gum is likely due to the aromatic distraction rather than a direct anti-nausea action on the gut.
Proven Natural Alternatives and Ginger’s Role
While cinnamon gum offers a mild, dual-action approach, other natural remedies have more established anti-nausea mechanisms. The most scientifically supported alternative is ginger, which contains active compounds called gingerols and shogaols. These compounds function as anti-emetics by interacting with the 5-HT3 and neurokinin-1 (NK-1) receptors, which are involved in the nausea and vomiting reflex.
Ginger
The key components of ginger may also exert a prokinetic effect, helping to accelerate gastric emptying. This action can relieve the sensation of fullness and distress often associated with nausea. Ginger can be consumed in various forms, including capsules, chews, or a simple tea made from the fresh root.
Peppermint
Another effective option is peppermint, which relies on the compound menthol. Menthol acts as an antispasmodic, relaxing the smooth muscles of the digestive tract and potentially reducing the cramping or churning sensation that accompanies nausea. Peppermint can be used as an inhaled essential oil or consumed as a tea or lozenge, which allows the menthol to soothe the system gradually.
Acupressure
Finally, the non-pharmacological technique of acupressure involves applying pressure to the P6 point (Neiguan) on the inner wrist. This technique is believed to stimulate nerves that modulate the nausea sensation. Acupressure is often used as a low-risk, adjunct treatment for various types of nausea.